HMX Game1989 vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the nuances of mechanical keyboard switches, one can't overlook the HMX 1989 and HMX EVA, both celebrated for their unique characteristics while sharing the same linear switch category. The HMX 1989, often dubbed the deepest and thockiest of the HMX Film switch series, offers a sound and feel that enthusiasts adore for its satisfying thock with every keystroke, making it a superb choice for gaming aficionados who thrive on the tactile feedback and distinct auditory profile. In contrast, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the vivid aesthetics of the Evangelion Unit-01, featuring a resonant sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience that appeals to those seeking a more elegant and refined feel. While both switches offer linear responses and cater to different typing preferences, their distinct auditory and tactile attributes set them apart. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the HMX EVA, one of the most striking differences lies in the choice of top housing material: the former utilizes polycarbonate while the latter employs nylon. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's key characteristic of translucency makes it particularly effective for setups involving RGB lighting, allowing the light to shine through with clarity and brilliance. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the HMX EVA, being a softer plastic, tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer material absorbs sound waves more effectively, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience.
Despite the differences in the top housing, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which results in similar sound characteristics between the two models. The nylon bottom housing is revered for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorption qualities. As both the HMX 1989 and HMX EVA feature nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent and robust typing experience, regardless of the variations in their top housing materials. Here, the bottom housing's impact on the overall sound profile is significant, as it primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed.
Overall, the distinction between the HMX 1989 and HMX EVA can be largely attributed to their respective top housing materials, while the shared nylon bottom housing helps bridge the gap in sound quality. The combination of a stiffer polycarbonate top in the HMX 1989 and a softer nylon top in the HMX EVA leads to different auditory experiences during key presses and releases. Users looking for a sharper, brighter sound may gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while those who prefer a deeper, more resonant experience might find the HMX EVA more appealing. Ultimately, both switches provide users with diverse sound profiles, allowing them to choose based on their personal preferences while benefiting from the similar qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces, which significantly influence user experience. The 1989 switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate towards the EVA switch for its reduced effort. Meanwhile, those who favor a more substantial typing experience might appreciate the 1989 switch’s slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, while both switches offer different actuation and bottom out forces, the EVA's lighter design positions it as the more fitting choice for those prone to long usage while the HMX 1989 offers a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional preference for deeper key presses. Conversely, the HMX EVA has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to users who favor quicker response times, such as gamers. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive feel when pressing keys, the EVA's 3.6 mm distance would be preferable; however, if you appreciate a more pronounced key travel that offers a hearty depth, the 1989's 4 mm distance would likely be more satisfying. Overall, the 1989 is the longer switch, while the EVA is the shorter, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The HMX EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the HMX 1989 and the HMX EVA switches, there's a notable contrast. The 1989 is recognized for its deep and "thocky" sound profile, which delivers a rich acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX EVA is characterized by a clacky sound signature that produces a sharp and snappy noise upon actuation. This crisp and bright sound can lead to a more percussive typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy the audible feedback of each keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches provide distinct sound profiles, the choice between a deep thock and a sharp clap will influence the overall auditory experience of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 offers a unique typing experience that can be described as substantial and notably satisfying due to its depth, though detailed information on its specific tactile feedback is not provided. The EVA switch, however, is celebrated for its feathery touch that allows for effortless keystrokes with minimal exertion. This quality reduces finger fatigue, making it a suitable option for extensive typing sessions. Coupled with its silky smoothness, the EVA provides an exceptionally fluid typing experience, minimizing resistance during key presses. Additionally, its bouncy feedback offers a lively sensation with a gentle bounce upon actuation, further enhancing the typing experience. Overall, while the 1989 emphasizes a more grounded typing sensation, the EVA focuses on lightness and smoothness.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and the HMX EVA linear switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The 1989 provides a rich, thocky sound with a potentially more substantial keystroke experience, while the EVA captivates with its bright, clacky noises and feather-light feel, enhanced by silky smoothness and a bouncy responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether one favors an acoustically deep feedback or a lively and smooth typing experience. Each switch has its own charm, and the decision should align with personal typing style and sound preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, your choice should hinge on both your typing preferences and intended usage. If you appreciate a slightly heavier feel and seek a switch that delivers a deeper, thocky sound experience, then the HMX 1989 is your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams provides a balanced actuation that can enhance tactile feedback, particularly benefiting gamers who enjoy a more substantial response during gameplay. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing tasks or gaming sessions, the HMX EVA with its 48 grams of actuation force and feathery, silky feel is ideal. The EVA's clacky sound profile and bouncy feedback make it perfect for those who enjoy a lively typing experience, reducing finger fatigue while keeping your enthusiasm up during long hours of work or play. Ultimately, consider whether you value a more grounded typing experience or a light and airy one, as this will guide you to the switch that best complements your style.
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