HMX EMO vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX EMO and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both offer unique and appealing features. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making typing a satisfying and smooth experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out with its innovative internal configuration, providing a seamless glide and a springy resistance that gives it a distinctive "matte" sensation. While the EMO offers a bouncy typing experience, the Venus promises rapid and effortless typing with a muted 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the TTC Venus, it is evident that they both use polycarbonate in their top housings. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Venus's POM top housing produces a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This commonality in housing material suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appearance when using switches with polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the EMO's nylon bottom housing differs from the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its effect on the top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights how the qualities of the bottom housing material can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing material plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the HMX EMO and TTC Venus plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While both switches share a common use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the differences in their bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Users can expect a sharper and crisper sound from the EMO due to its use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings, while the Venus offers a deeper and more muted sound with its mix of POM and polycarbonate materials. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The EMO features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a soft and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Venus switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a more substantial press feel. This difference in force makes the EMO switch ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Venus switch is better suited for those who enjoy a slightly more resistant keypress. Both switches provide unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences, with the EMO being lighter and the Venus being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EMO. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for users who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the EMO may be the better option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 its muted and subdued sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is described as having a low-pitched sound with a thocky quality, providing a deep and rich auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more pleasant typing environment for users. Ultimately, whether you prefer the mellow tones of the EMO or the deeper sound of the Venus, both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience that enhances the typing process.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its factory-lubed buttery feel, offering a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. In comparison, the TTC Venus switch is highlighted for its gummy and frictionless feel, providing a unique matte sensation that combines smoothness with engaging resistance. Both switches promise effortless typing with their light actuation and seamless key travel, catering to users who seek a comfortable and fluid typing experience. Whether you prefer the polished finish of the EMO or the innovative design of the Venus, both switches offer a satisfying tactile feel that enhances typing precision and comfort.
In conclusion, while the HMX EMO and TTC Venus linear switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, they both offer a delightful typing experience tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prioritize a quieter sound profile or a more engaging tactile feel, both switches deliver a combination of smoothness, responsiveness, and satisfaction with each keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between the EMO and Venus switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that you'll achieve a similar level of typing enjoyment and performance regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between HMX EMO linear switches and TTC Venus linear switches, consider the weight of the bottom-out force. The EMO offers a lighter 46g force, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience, while the Venus has a slightly heavier 52g force for a more stable feel. If you prefer a lively and clacky typing feel with a feather-light force, the EMO may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a balance of seamless gliding and captivating texture with a slightly heavier actuation force for rapid typing, the Venus is worth considering. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your preference for bottom-out force and unique typing experience.
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