HMX EMO vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the HMX EMO and HMX EVA offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively and clacky feel, providing a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that enables an effortless and bouncy typing experience. This switch is exceptionally factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and satisfying tactile response with every keystroke. In contrast, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, delivering a resonant sound signature while maintaining a silky smooth typing feel. Both switches have their unique charms: the EMO appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, while the EVA is ideal for those who prefer a quieter and refined typing experience with visual flair. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 EMO and HMX EVA switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their top housing compositions. The EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which can be particularly enhanced by RGB lighting due to its clearer aesthetic. In contrast, the HMX EVA is equipped with a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, the differences in top housing materials suggest that users may have varied auditory experiences depending on which switch they choose, with the EMO offering a more vibrant sound and the EVA delivering a mellow, rounded tone.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing of both switches, a similarity arises. Both the HMX EMO and HMX EVA utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice is indicative of nylon's classic reputation in switch design, where it’s known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile which complements the softer characteristics of the material. As a result, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will exhibit similar auditory impacts in application due to the nylon bottom. Therefore, when it comes to sound during key presses, users will experience a consistent depth and fullness, underscoring the importance of the bottom housing in contributing to the overall acoustics of the switch.
In summary, the divergent materials utilized in the top housings of the HMX EMO and HMX EVA facilitate distinctly different auditory characteristics, with the EMO leaning towards a crisp and clearer sound while the EVA presents a richer and more rounded auditory experience. Although these switches demonstrate noticeable contrasts in their upper housings, they converge on a common ground with their nylon bottom housings. Consequently, the overall feel and bottom-out sound of both switches will resemble each other, providing a familiarity in tactile feedback for users, regardless of the visual and auditory distinctions brought about by the different top materials.
Weight
Comparing the HMX EMO and HMX EVA linear switches reveals similarities and subtle differences in their force characteristics. The EMO switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the EVA switch has slightly higher figures, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for users who favor effortless typing or gaming over extended periods. However, the EVA switch is marginally heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a slightly more substantial feel that some typists may prefer for tactile feedback. Thus, users seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the EMO, whereas those desiring a firmer push experience might opt for the EVA. Overall, if one is looking for a switch to facilitate longer typing sessions, both options will likely deliver a comfortable experience, but with the EMO being the lighter of the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, it becomes evident that their characteristics cater to different preferences. The EMO features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the EVA has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. As such, the EMO is the shorter switch, providing a quicker response time that may be appealing to gamers seeking rapid key presses. In contrast, the EVA's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel while typing or gaming. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it highlights how even slight variations can influence user experience based on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky auditory feedback, contributing to an engaging typing experience that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX EVA switch reportedly features a resonant sound signature that enhances the overall acoustic performance while typing. It's important to remember that the sound produced by a switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction materials, the type of keycaps used, and overall build quality.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch shines with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that creates an effortless and bouncy typing experience. This light touch allows users to type with speed and precision without feeling fatigued. In contrast, the HMX EVA offers a silky smooth typing feel, which suggests a refined experience but lacks the specific details about actuation force and feedback that would provide a complete picture. While the EMO is all about a lively bounce, the EVA seems to prioritize a smooth and fluid interaction with the keys.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and HMX EVA linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EMO is ideal for those seeking a more tactile and lively response, while the EVA appeals to those who appreciate a refined, smooth touch. Ultimately, whether you choose one over the other, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EMO and HMX EVA switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lively and responsive typing experience with a focus on a feather-light feel, the EMO is likely the better choice for you. Its 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory lubrication result in a satisfying, bouncy action that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines a resonant sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, the EVA might be your go-to. Its slightly higher 48g bottom-out force offers a bit more resistance, which some individuals find more comfortable for precision typing. Moreover, the EVA’s unique color inspiration adds a bit of personality to your setup, making it a visually appealing option as well. Ultimately, consider how you want your keyboard to feel and sound, as well as what kind of visual aesthetic resonates with you, before making your decision between these two intriguing linear switches.
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