HMX EVA vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options that cater to various preferences and typing styles. On one hand, the HMX EVA switch stands out with its vibrant design inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offering a resonant sound signature alongside a silky smooth typing feel. This switch is often preferred by those who enjoy a blend of feathery lightness and satisfying clackiness, making it suitable for both typists and gamers who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink switch provides a different tactile experience characterized by an incredibly light 37g actuation force, ideal for users who seek a rapid and effortless typing experience. Its clacky sound adds a playful element to the experience, while its mild and polished touch ensures a smooth glide across the keys, making it a top choice for fast typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Pink, notable differences arise, especially concerning their top housings. The EVA utilizes nylon, a classic material known for its softer nature, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality makes switches using nylon particularly appealing to those seeking a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Gold Pink's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The contrasting acoustic profiles of these two materials highlight their distinct characteristics; while the EVA emphasizes warmth and depth, the Gold Pink enhances clarity and brightness, catering to different typing preferences.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a similarity that affects their overall acoustic qualities. Both the EVA and the Gold Pink utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and fuller sound profile when typing. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel of the switch, the EVA and Gold Pink produce a cohesive experience despite their differing top housings. This shared nylon bottom contributes to a warm bottoming sensation and reinforces the importance of the bottom housing's role in determining how each switch feels at the moment of actuation.
In terms of overall performance, each switch delivers a unique sound profile due to the different materials used in the top housings. However, the similar nylon bottom housing allows both switches to retain a level of acoustic comfort and familiarity for users. While the EVA provides a more muted experience, the TTC Gold Pink offers a vibrant sound when pressed at the top, emphasizing the nuances in sound production and user experience that arise from the combination of materials. For users who prioritize RGB lighting aesthetics, the polycarbonate of the Gold Pink supports visual enhancement, while the EVA's nylon construction maintains a more subdued look, further distinguishing the two options in both functionality and design.
Weight
The HMX EVA and TTC Gold Pink linear switches both feature relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, catering well to users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. The EVA has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Gold Pink requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and bottoms out at 45 grams. Thus, the Gold Pink is the lighter option and may be more comfortable for those who spend long hours at their keyboard. In contrast, the EVA offers a slightly stronger resistance, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial key feel. Despite these differences, both switches provide similar results in terms of feel and performance, making them suitable for users who enjoy a smooth and responsive typing experience without straining their fingers.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that the Gold Pink switch provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, which can be preferable for users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback when typing. On the other hand, the EVA's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm appeals to those who favor quicker response times, making it more suitable for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. As a result, if you prioritize responsiveness, the EVA would be the better choice, while the Gold Pink may be more comfortable for users who enjoy the feel of a deeper key press. Thus, the Gold Pink is the longer option at 4 mm, while the EVA is the shorter one at 3.6 mm.
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 Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 EVA linear switch is characterized by a clacky tone, which produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when keys are pressed. This sharp auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced audio element in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, while the specific sound profile of the TTC Gold Pink switch isn't detailed, they are tailored for those who appreciate a lively typing experience. It's important to keep in mind that the overall auditory experience is influenced by various factors, such as the choice of keyboard case, plate material, and keycap design, so both switches may exhibit differing sound qualities depending on the setup.
When considering the feel of the switches, the EVA excels in delivering a feathery, silky, and bouncy typing experience. The exceptionally light pressing force needed for the EVA minimizes finger fatigue and enhances comfort during prolonged use, making it an excellent choice for extensive gaming or typing. This switch provides a smooth keystroke with a lively rebound, creating an engaging interaction. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a buttery, mild, subtle, and polished typing sensation. It emphasizes a smooth and effortless feel, perfect for users who want a gentle typing experience without the heavy resistance found in more tactile switches. While the Gold Pink's feedback is mild and accessible, it may not deliver the same lively elasticity that the EVA provides.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and TTC Gold Pink switches cater to users seeking different auditory and tactile experiences. The EVA's sharp, clacky sound and engaging bounciness appeal to those who like a lively auditory and tactile feedback, whereas the Gold Pink offers a smooth and gentle typing sensation that suits users looking for a more subdued experience. If you're looking for distinct sounds and feels, you'll find the EVA more engaging, while the Gold Pink offers a refined simplicity and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice between these two will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Pink linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you're drawn to a switch that offers a unique aesthetic appeal and an engaging sound profile—thanks to its clacky, resonant nature—then the EVA is an excellent choice. The EVA's light bottom-out force of 48 grams, combined with its feathery, silky, and bouncy feel, makes it ideal for users who appreciate a tactile experience that is not only smooth but also lively. This can be particularly beneficial during extended typing sessions, whether you’re gaming or working. On the other hand, if you favor a switch that prioritizes speed and ease of use, particularly for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink would likely serve you better. With a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams, these switches offer a buttery and mild experience, providing a smooth keystroke that is effortless and suitable for shared spaces due to their subtle sound signature. In summary, you should opt for the EVA if you appreciate a more engaging feel and sound, while going for the Gold Pink would be preferable for a faster and quieter typing experience.
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