HMX EMO vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch provides a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it effortless and bouncy. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. While the EMO switch delivers a satisfying and smooth typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different sound preferences and typing experiences. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile perfect for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, appealing to users who enjoy a distinct and tactile typing experience. The choice between these two switches would ultimately depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a more clacky typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the EMO's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder typing sound, suiting those who prefer a deeper and more muted typing experience. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing material offers superior smoothness, durability, and shock resistance compared to nylon. This results in smooth, clacky, and durable switches that provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a robust and long-lasting switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX EMO and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches may differ in their compositions and resulting sound profiles, both switches aim to provide a custom sound experience for keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate or the clacky and durable feel of POK, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to specific typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual sound and typing preferences, with each switch offering a distinct typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch both lean towards the lighter side, with the EMO being slightly lighter in both categories. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches offer a light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch while typing. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be significant enough for most users to notice, so in terms of typing feel, users can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two would likely come down to personal preference in terms of weight and force in order to cater to individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback and key press experience. Users can expect consistent performance and feel regardless of whether they are using the HMX EMO or the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for delivering a lively and clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound that stands out in the linear switch category, providing a unique typing experience with a touch of creaminess. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering a bouncy and satisfying typing experience that is smooth and effortless. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, giving typists the option to choose between a bouncy and lively feel or a creamy and uniform sensation.
Overall, the HMX EMO and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the EMO provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a light bottom-out force, the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its smooth and creamy feel, incorporating POK in both the stem and bottom housing for added comfort. Whether you prefer a more lively sound and feel like the EMO or a smoother and creamier experience like the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer quality options for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you enjoy a lively and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, then the HMX EMO switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the better choice for you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you desire.
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