TTC Brother vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Brother switch is celebrated for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound, making it a top choice for clicky switch aficionados looking for a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the EMO switch offers a lively and bouncy feel with a feather-light bottom-out force, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Brother switch is known for its easy-to-press and stepped design, the EMO switch is exceptional factory-lubed for a satisfying 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and the HMX EMO both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, they may have different design elements that affect the overall sound and feel.
In contrast, the Brother and the EMO have nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Although both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the specific design of each switch may differentiate their overall typing experience.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the TTC Brother and the HMX EMO affects the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more noise. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, highlighting the importance of housing material in determining key feel and sound.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the HMX EMO linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, while the actuation force of the Brother switch is known, the bottom out force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its overall typing experience. On the other hand, the EMO switch has a bottom out force of 46 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Brother switch may be more suitable. In contrast, individuals looking for a more substantial push feel may lean towards the EMO switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Overall, the travel distance of both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch offers a comfortable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The HMX EMO comes in at $3.49 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 TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Each click is delivered with clear, crisp precision, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively, clacky sound that adds to the overall typing experience. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Brother switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate. This lightweight actuation of just 37g provides a tactile experience that is both responsive and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump in the Brother switch strikes the perfect balance between being present enough to be felt distinctly and subdued enough to not overpower the keystroke. On the contrary, the HMX EMO switch offers a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. While specific descriptions of the feel of the EMO switch are not provided, its factory-lubed design ensures an effortless typing experience that is satisfying and enjoyable.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy sound and an easy-to-press tactile experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy clicky switches. On the other hand, the EMO switch stands out with its lively clacky sound and smooth, bouncy feel, catering to those who prefer a linear switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light, crisp, and tactile feedback with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a feather-light bottom-out force, the EMO linear switch might be more up your alley. Consider your personal typing style and sound preference to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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