HMX EMO vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the KTT Strawberry both offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The EMO switch stands out for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, making it a popular choice among users. While the EMO switch offers a more tactile experience, the Strawberry switch is praised for its silky and buttery feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Strawberry, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is particularly useful for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the lighting to shine through. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, they may still have different sound profiles based on other factors such as stem design or spring weight.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the HMX EMO features a nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Strawberry uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, which has a clearer and sharper sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the KTT Strawberry contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile.
In terms of typing experience, the difference in bottom housing materials can impact the overall feel and sound of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split between the qualities brought by each housing material can lead to a unique typing experience for each switch, even if they share similarities in their top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is clear that the EMO is the lighter option. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, making it the heavier option between the two. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the EMO would be the ideal choice. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the KTT Strawberry switch for its heavier force. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their typing needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see that the EMO has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the EMO may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in regards to travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
The KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The HMX EMO linear switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, providing a satisfying typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, typically featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the full setup when evaluating sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the EMO switch delivers an effortless and bouncy typing experience, thanks to its factory-lubed construction. However, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These qualities result in a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance, enhancing the overall feel of the keyboard. Whether you prefer the lively feel of the EMO or the smoothness of the Strawberry, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO linear switch and KTT Strawberry linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prioritize a lively sound and lightweight feel or a smooth, frictionless typing experience, choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. No matter which option you go for, you can expect reliable performance and quality construction from either the HMX EMO or KTT Strawberry linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you should consider the factors that matter most to you in a switch. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel with a bouncy typing experience, the EMO switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a medium bottom-out force and appreciate smooth actuation, comfort, and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a specific feel, sound, or typing experience will determine which switch is the best choice for you.
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