Jerrzi Coral vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Coral and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Coral and the HMX EVA present two compelling choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience with distinct characteristics. The Coral switch is celebrated for its crisp typing feel and low-pitched resonance, providing a nuanced sophistication that elevates the overall performance, making each keystroke a pleasure. In contrast, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, boasting a smooth typing feel combined with a resonant sound signature that resonates with fans of the franchise. While the Coral is ideal for those who appreciate a refined typing experience, the EVA captures the imagination with its striking aesthetic and smooth action. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Coral and the HMX EVA switches, a stark contrast emerges between their top housing options. The Jerrzi Coral utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This stiffer material enhances the clarity of the sound, enabling a more pronounced auditory experience, particularly beneficial when RGB lighting is involved due to its translucence. In contrast, the HMX EVA's top housing is made of nylon, a classic material known for its softer properties. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively, which results in a deeper and rounder sound profile. Consequently, users can expect a differentiating auditory experience based on the top housing material, making the Coral more suited for those who prefer a bright and lively keystroke, while the EVA may appeal to those seeking a softer and more subdued typing sound.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Jerrzi Coral and the HMX EVA incorporate nylon, which brings similar sound characteristics to both switches. The nylon composition in the bottom housing in both models ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller tone upon bottoming out. As a result, while the top housings are distinct in their contributions to sound profiles, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing allows both switches to maintain a level of acoustic consistency. It signifies that despite the opposition in their top materials, both switches can deliver a satisfying auditory feedback during typing, primarily influenced by the nylon bottoms.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in these switches influences the overall typing experience. For users who prioritize auditory sharpness and clarity alongside dynamic RGB lighting, the Jerrzi Coral emerges as the more advantageous choice due to its polycarbonate top. Conversely, those who might be looking for a classic, muted response from their keys would find the HMX EVA's nylon housing appealing. However, both switches, through their shared nylon bottom, will provide a fuller typing experience, especially with regards to the sound produced when keys bottom out. In essence, potential users can achieve a range of both auditory experiences depending on their material preferences, while the nylon bottom housing in both ensures a consistent and enjoyable typing feedback overall.
Weight
The Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch exhibit some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Coral has an actuation force of 40 grams, which is slightly lighter than the EVA's actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Coral may provide a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use, while the EVA requires a marginally stronger push, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Coral is listed as unavailable, whereas the EVA has a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating a definitive resistance felt when fully pressing the key down. This makes the EVA the heavier option overall, particularly in terms of bottoming out, which some users might find preferable for a more tactile experience. In conclusion, if you favor lighter switches, the Coral could be the better choice, while those who appreciate a heavier push will likely lean towards the EVA, especially considering its defined bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Coral linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX EVA linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Coral the longer of the two switches by a marginal 0.1 mm. Both switches fall within the trend of shorter travel distances that are favored by gamers for their quicker response times, making both options appealing for those prioritizing performance. However, if a user prefers a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Coral's greater travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth compared to the EVA. Ultimately, while both switches offer a responsive experience, the Coral offers a slight edge in depth, which may align better with users seeking a balanced typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 it comes to sound quality, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched resonance, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This translates to a pleasant typing sound that is less harsh and can be quite soothing during long typing sessions. The HMX EVA linear switch, while not specifically described in terms of pitch, is noted for its resonant sound signature. This suggests that it may possess a unique auditory profile, possibly aligning with the emotional themes inspired by Evangelion Unit-01. However, it's important to recognize that the overall sound can significantly depend on the keyboard's construction, the keycaps used, and personal acoustics.
In terms of feel, the Coral switch shines with a silky typing experience, minimizing any resistance while pressing and releasing keys. This smooth operation enhances the tactile pleasure of typing, making every keystroke fluid and comfortable. While the HMX EVA’s feel is not explicitly detailed, its design indicates a focus on a “silky smooth” type feel as well, which is a favorable quality for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Therefore, both switches aim to deliver a high-quality tactile response, ensuring that typists can glide over their keyboards effortlessly.
Overall, the Jerrzi Coral and HMX EVA linear switches both present appealing auditory and tactile qualities tailored to enhance the typing experience. With the Coral's low-pitched sound and silky feel, juxtaposed with the EVA's resonant sound signature, the choice may ultimately boil down to personal preference regarding sound and aesthetic appeal. Both switches are designed for smooth operation, making them compelling options for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch should largely depend on your personal preferences in typing feel and auditory experience. If you favor a notably silky and smooth typing experience paired with a low-pitched sound, the Coral switch would be an excellent option. Its distinctive crispness and sophisticated appeal make it ideal for users who appreciate a pleasurable and refined keystroke with every press. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a slightly heavier typing feel with a hint of unique character inspired by iconic design, the HMX EVA switch with its light bottom-out force of 48 grams might be more your style. This switch promises a resonant sound signature coupled with a smooth typing experience, making it appealing for gamers and typists who enjoy a blend of performance and distinctive sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities—whether it’s an exquisite sensory experience with the Coral or the stylish resonance of the EVA.