HMX EMO vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX EMO and the KTT Purple Click can be a tough one. On one hand, the HMX EMO offers a lively and clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click delivers a satisfyingly high-pitched click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility. Both switches offer unique benefits - the EMO for its smooth typing experience and the Purple Click for its satisfying click. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they differ in their bottom housings.
In contrast, the EMO and Purple Click switches have different bottom housing materials, with the EMO utilizing nylon and the Purple Click also employing nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound profile created by polycarbonate. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches share the quality of providing a unique typing experience based on the characteristics of their housing materials.
Overall, while the EMO and Purple Click switches differ in their bottom housing materials, they both benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a balance of sound profiles when typing and releasing keys. Whether it be the crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper sound profile of nylon in the bottom housing, both switches offer a distinct typing experience thanks to their housing materials.
Weight
Both the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same actuation force of 40 grams, providing a consistent feel when typing. However, the EMO switch has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams compared to the Purple Click's heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the EMO switch may feel smoother and require less effort to fully press down compared to the Purple Click switch. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions, the EMO switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance may find the Purple Click switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the Purple Click has a longer travel distance than the EMO. The EMO's 3.5 mm distance provides a slightly shorter keypress, making it ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, the Purple Click's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth to the keypress, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the EMO switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience without a pronounced click sound. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch delivers a high-pitched and crunchy click that adds an immersive auditory element to your typing. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the quiet typing experience of the EMO, while others may enjoy the clicky sound of the Purple Click switch.
When it comes to feel, the EMO switch provides a bouncy and effortless typing experience with a light bottom-out force of 46g. In comparison, the Purple Click switch offers a tactile yet light keystroke with a pronounced feedback that can be invigorating for typists. Additionally, the Purple Click switch has a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Users who enjoy a more responsive and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click switch, while those looking for a smoother and lighter feel may prefer the EMO switch.
Overall, the HMX EMO and KTT Purple Click switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the EMO switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience without a pronounced click, the Purple Click switch delivers a high-pitched and crunchy click with invigorating tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, it is important to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX EMO linear switch or the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it's important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a light and bouncy typing feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and a smooth, satisfying clacky sound, the EMO would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light 55g bottom-out force with a pronounced yet not overwhelming clicky sound and a tactile yet light keystroke feel, the Purple Click switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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