HMX Deep Navy vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and HMX EVA linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its rich, sharp sound profile and full nylon construction, which together create a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke. Its silky smooth Ly stem ensures a seamless typing feel, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a blend of acoustic feedback and tactile comfort. On the other hand, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, delivering a resonant sound signature that complements its smooth typing feel. This switch appeals to gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetic design alongside performance. Both switches offer exceptional linearity, but their distinctive sound profiles and construction materials cater to different preferences and uses. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the HMX EVA feature identical housing materials in both the top and bottom components, both utilizing nylon. This choice of nylon contributes to a distinctive sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The material's relatively softer nature allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Users pressing on these switches will enjoy a consistent acoustic quality due to the similar properties inherent in the nylon used in both models. The shared material ensures that users will achieve analogous acoustic results, regardless of which switch they choose to type on.
In terms of functionality, while the top and bottom housings of both the Deep Navy and EVA are made from the same nylon material, their interaction during key presses affects how they feel and sound. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback that users experience when they press a key all the way down. Conversely, the top housing is more influential when it comes to the sound produced while releasing the key. Because both switches feature the same housing materials, users will notice a comparable performance in typing feel and acoustic properties, reinforcing a consistent experience across both options.
Despite the identical material composition, the overall experience of typing on the HMX Deep Navy and HMX EVA may differ slightly based on potential variations in design or tolerances in manufacturing. However, since both models rely on the same nylon construction, any variations in sound or feel will likely be subtle rather than pronounced. This shared core characteristic means that users can expect similar sound profiles from both switches, making either a solid choice for those seeking a premium typing experience characterized by deep, rounded acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, both exhibit light weights and provide a similar typing experience, albeit with slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the EVA linear switch requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Despite these variations, both switches are designed to cater to users who appreciate a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push might lean towards the EVA due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while both switches offer a relatively similar light feel, the Deep Navy presents an even lighter option for users who prioritize minimal force in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience identical keypress feedback from both switches. This equal travel distance ensures that regardless of which switch is used, the actuation and bottoming-out feel will be consistent. Consequently, whether you choose the Deep Navy or the EVA, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel, contributing to user familiarity and comfort across both switch types.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch boasts a rich and sharp sound profile, highlighting its full nylon construction which contributes to its auditory character. In comparison, the HMX EVA offers a resonant sound signature that complements its aesthetic inspiration from the Evangelion franchise, while also providing a silky smooth auditory experience. Both switches deliver unique sound qualities that are enhanced by the choice of board and keycaps, ensuring that users can tailor their sound experience further based on their setup.
Regarding feel, the Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness across keystrokes, thanks to the precision of its Ly stem design. The EVA switch echoes this sentiment, emphasizing a silky smooth typing experience as well. With both switches prioritizing a fluid and seamless feel, users can expect a highly enjoyable experience when typing or gaming, regardless of which linear switch they choose.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and HMX EVA linear switches offer enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, with distinct sound signatures and similar silky smooth feels. While the Deep Navy leans toward a rich and sharp sound profile, the EVA presents a more resonant tune, yet both deliver a consistently smooth typing experience. Users can expect high performance from either choice, making both switches compelling options for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Deep Navy and HMX EVA linear switches, your preferences for sound and tactile experience should guide your decision. If you value a rich and sharp sound profile, along with the silky smoothness of each keystroke, the HMX Deep Navy switch with its full nylon construction and lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams would be an excellent choice for you. It’s ideal if you appreciate a more responsive and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a resonant sound signature inspired by the dynamic designs of Evangelion Unit-01, and prefer a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 48 grams, the HMX EVA switch would suit you well. Its bold character and smooth typing feel provide a unique experience that complements an engaging aesthetic. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for mechanical keyboards, but your individual preferences for sound and the typing feel will determine which one is the right fit for your setup.
Mentioned in this article
