HMX EVA vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can greatly influence both typing experience and personal enjoyment. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound character, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate a tactile yet seamless experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple distinguishes itself with a slightly bassier sound signature, offering a poppy undertone that adds an engaging auditory dynamic to each keystroke. With a notably low actuation force of 47g, the Flaming Purple caters to those looking for a feathery touch that enables swift and effortless typing—a key feature for both enthusiasts and everyday users alike. While both switches are compelling linear options, their unique characteristics cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the TTC Flaming Purple, the differences in their top housing are striking. The EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer nature, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Flaming Purple employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and therefore generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The crisper auditory feedback from the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for users seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetics of the switch while allowing light to pass through clearly, a feature not available with the nylon top housing.
On the other hand, both the nylon bottom housing of the EVA and the bottom housing of the Flaming Purple exhibit similar characteristics. Given that both are constructed from nylon, they share the same capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound. When typing on either switch, users will experience analogous auditory feedback from the nylon bottom housing. The softness of the nylon material effectively dampens sound, resulting in a duller, more rounded bottom-out sound regardless of the switch brand. Consequently, this shared nylon material contributes to a consistent tactile experience across both switches, as bottom housing effects remain largely uniform.
Ultimately, the key distinctions between the HMX EVA and the TTC Flaming Purple lie in their top housing materials. If a user prefers the deeper and fuller sound profile offered by nylon, the EVA would suit their needs perfectly. Conversely, those who appreciate a sharper and more resonant sound will favor the flaming purple's polycarbonate housing. However, both switches offer enjoyable tactile experiences due to the nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users will find competent performance from each product, even if the acoustic qualities differ at the top. Hence, while these switches bring unique sound profiles derived from their differing top housing materials, the nylon used in the bottom housing unifies their auditory feedback in a meaningful way.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, both exhibit a light actuation force of 42 grams, indicating that users can trigger keystrokes with minimal effort, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the EVA requiring 48 grams to bottom out, while the Flaming Purple requires only 47 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the EVA switch has a marginally heavier bottom out force, offering a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. Overall, both switches are on the lighter side, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and endurance, though the EVA might give users a slightly different tactile feedback at the end of their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is the same at 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience an identical key travel distance, which contributes to similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Therefore, whether one uses the EVA or the Flaming Purple, they can expect the same depth of key press throughout their usage.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 EVA linear switch is known for its resonant sound signature, though specific details about its audio characteristics are not provided. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch presents a distinctly bassier profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This switch leans towards a low-pitched and poppy undertone, making each keystroke engaging and immersive. Both switches exhibit a resonant quality, implying that, while the tonal characteristics may differ, users can anticipate a satisfying auditory experience when typing, enhanced by the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA boasts a silky smooth typing experience, making it appealing for prolonged usage. The TTC Flaming Purple, meanwhile, is particularly noted for its feathery nature, with a light actuation force of just 47g that enables swift keystrokes with minimal effort. This quality results in a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue for users during extended sessions. Although both switches cater to different preferences—one focusing on a smooth tactile sensation and the other emphasizing lightness and ease of pressing—they both provide a pleasant typing experience, albeit in slightly different ways.
In summary, while the HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by its smooth typing feel and resonant sound, the TTC Flaming Purple switch offers a unique bassy sound profile along with a feathery and easy-to-press touch. Despite these differences, both switches aim to deliver enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, making them suitable choices for enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Depending on your preferences, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience, influenced by your specific keyboard setup and keycap selections.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're drawn to a unique aesthetic and desire a typing experience that combines a resonant sound signature with a silky smooth feel, then the HMX EVA is likely the right choice for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it particularly suitable for those who appreciate a responsive yet forgiving feel during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a bassier auditory profile with a touch of intrigue while maintaining an incredibly easy-to-press action, the TTC Flaming Purple may be the ideal option. With its slightly lower bottom-out force of 47 grams, it offers a comfortable typing experience that caters well to both enthusiasts and daily typists alike. Ultimately, consider how sound and tactile feedback matter to you in your keyboard experience, and choose the switch that resonates most with your typing style and workflow.