HMX EMO vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the TTC Yunhai, both linear switches, present compelling yet distinct options that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively and clacky typing experience, thanks to a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory lubing, providing users with a smooth, bouncy feel that many find satisfying for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches stand out with their deep, rounded sound profile and incredibly light actuation force, making them an excellent choice for typists who favor a gentler, more effortless touch as they navigate their keyboards. While both switches offer a linear experience aiming for smooth keystrokes, their unique characteristics can influence your overall satisfaction significantly. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EMO Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EMO and the TTC Yunhai exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the auditory and tactile characteristics of their respective switches. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, a material celebrated for its rigidity and translucence. This composition results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance when typing. Conversely, the Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer by nature and contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon's capacity to absorb sound leads to a duller tonal output, creating a rounder experience overall. Therefore, while both switches may produce unique auditory experiences from their top housings, the EMO leans towards brightness, while the Yunhai embodies richness and warmth.

The bottom housings of both switches, however, share the same material—nylon. This results in comparable performance, as nylon is known for its ability to dampen sound, producing a deeper and fuller auditory experience during typing. With such similar bottom housings, the keys on both the EMO and the Yunhai will yield analogous tactile sensations and sounds upon bottoming out, which primarily impacts the overall typing feel. This similarity is crucial, as it ensures that regardless of the distinct character imparted by the top housings, the fundamental experience of hitting the keys remains consistent, marking a sense of familiarity for users transitioning between these two models.

Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housing in the EMO and Yunhai contributes to a nuanced sound profile in each switch. While the EMO offers a crisp brightness due to its polycarbonate top housing, the fullness brought about by the nylon bottom ensures a pleasant overall experience. In contrast, the Yunhai may produce a rounder sound due to the nylon top housing, but it is similarly complemented by the nylon bottom that bolsters its richer auditory experience. By leveraging these material dynamics, both switches cater to diverse preferences, enabling users to select a profile that aligns with their desired typing experience while maintaining comforting familiarity in the feel and sound of their keystrokes.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the EMO has slightly lower values. The EMO's actuation force is 40 grams, while the Yunhai requires a bit more at 42 grams. Similarly, the EMO has a bottom out force of 46 grams compared to the Yunhai's 50 grams. This means that the EMO switch is marginally lighter than the Yunhai, making it potentially more suitable for users who type for extended periods, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions, as it demands less force for actuation and bottoming out. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push feel might lean towards the Yunhai, as it offers a bit more resistance. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, the HMX EMO is the lighter option, providing an easier typing experience, while the TTC Yunhai delivers a firmer touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EMO linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the EMO measures at 3.5 mm, while the Yunhai has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the EMO is the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing to gamers or those who favor quicker response times, as shorter travel distances typically allow for faster key presses. On the other hand, the Yunhai, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, which can be desirable for users who prefer a deeper key press and a more robust typing experience. Consequently, those who appreciate a quicker response would likely gravitate toward the EMO, while those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes may find the Yunhai to be the better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky auditory profile, which provides a satisfying acoustic feedback that many typists enjoy. This engaging sound can enhance the typing experience, making each keystroke feel impactful. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a deep and rounded sound profile that is unique and distinct, contributing to an overall pleasant auditory experience. Both switches will have their distinct sound characteristics, but factors such as your choice of keyboard, mounting type, and keycap material can significantly influence how these sounds are perceived in a real-world typing environment.

Regarding the feel, the HMX EMO switch offers a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a bouncy and effortless typing experience that many find to be incredibly satisfying. The exceptional factory lubrication adds to this smoothness, making each keystroke feel fluid and responsive. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switch also boasts an incredibly light actuation force, providing a gentle and cushioned sensation when typing. While both switches emphasize a light and effortless feel, the bouncy nature of the EMO distinguishes it from the rounded smoothness of the Yunhai, making them appealing to slightly different preferences.

In conclusion, while the HMX EMO and TTC Yunhai linear switches both cater to typists looking for a light and enjoyable typing experience, they present differing auditory and tactile characteristics. The EMO is lively and clacky, whereas the Yunhai offers a deep and rounded sound, setting the stage for a varied, though similarly enjoyable, typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will come down to personal preference, as both options will yield rewarding results, though distinct in their execution.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO and the TTC Yunhai linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a very lightweight feel and want a lively, clackier experience that comes with a slightly lower bottom-out force of 46 grams, the EMO switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its exceptional factory lubrication enhances the smoothness and bounciness, making it suitable for fast-paced typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a more rounded typing experience with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams, you might gravitate towards the Yunhai switch. Its gentle actuation is perfect for those who desire a more effortless feel while typing, potentially easing strain during long work sessions. In summary, assess your typing needs—whether you value a lively feel and performance or a smoother, fatigue-free experience—to make the best switch choice for you.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more