HMX EVA vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience, and two standout options in the linear switch category are the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Red Pro. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, boasts a unique resonant sound signature that adds character to its silky smooth feel, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a bit of flair in their typing experience. Its feathery, clacky, and bouncy attributes attract users looking for a tactile yet delightful feedback during use. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro stands as a paragon of versatility, offering a neutral sound and polished feel that caters to a wide audience. Its ease of press ensures a seamless experience, ideal for both gamers and professionals alike, while maintaining a subtle auditory presence that suits any environment. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, catering to different user preferences and needs. 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
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Red Pro, a clear distinction emerges between their top housing components. The HMX EVA utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material that is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. This characteristic causes the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when keys are pressed. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is markedly stiffer than nylon. The use of polycarbonate leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is crisper and clearer, making it particularly suited for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. The choice of material significantly influences the acoustic properties of each switch, leading to distinct auditory outcomes based on the design decisions made by the manufacturers.
However, the bottom housing of both switches tells a different story, as both the HMX EVA and the TTC Gold Red Pro utilize nylon for this component. In this case, the use of nylon leads to a consistent experience when it comes to the typing feel and sound produced during bottoming out. The properties of nylon, characterized by its sound-absorbing qualities, ensure that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom housing. This similarity creates a cohesive experience where the bottoming out will have a unified auditory impact, regardless of the differences found in the top housing materials of the two designs. As such, both switches offer users a satisfying tactile experience when pressed down due to the shared characteristics of their nylon bottom housings.
Combining the different housing materials results in an interesting dynamic that shapes the overall performances of the HMX EVA and TTC Gold Red Pro. The nylon bottom housing shared by both switches ensures that the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound remain consistent, while the distinct top housings provide an opportunity for users to select their preferred auditory experience. Users who enjoy a deeper, more muted sound profile may gravitate towards the EVA, while those looking for clarity and sharpness might prefer the Gold Red Pro. Ultimately, whether users lean towards the deeper sound of the nylon or the crisper tone of the polycarbonate, the overall typing experience remains enjoyable due to the tactile qualities provided by the nylon bottom housing in both models.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch present a compelling comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams, which is ideal for those who prefer extended keyboard use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. Its bottom out force is 48 grams, indicating a slightly firmer press when the key is fully engaged. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro has a marginally heavier actuation force of 43 grams; however, its bottom out force remains unknown. This uncertainty means that while typing experiences might be somewhat similar due to their close actuation forces, it is unclear how the Gold Red Pro feels at full key depression. Overall, the EVA is lighter both in actuation and bottom out forces, appealing more to users seeking a softer touch, while the Gold Red Pro may cater to those who prefer a bit more resistance, contingent on its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we find that the EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Red Pro measures 3.8 mm. This means that the EVA switch is the shorter option, making it potentially more suitable for users seeking quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile experience that some users prefer for a more engaging typing feel. If a user is looking for a more responsive switch, the EVA would be the better choice; however, those who enjoy a deeper key press might lean towards the Gold Red Pro. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on their respective travel distances, catering to different user preferences.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 exhibits a clacky character that delivers a sharp and snappy audio feedback when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound can be particularly fulfilling for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience while typing or gaming. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a more neutral sound signature that is neither too loud nor overly muted, characterized by a thocky quality. The deep, rich tones it produces create a satisfying auditory feedback that is both bass-heavy and mellow, making it versatile enough for various environments, whether you’re at work or in a home setting. While both switches produce distinct sound profiles, user choice of keyboard and keycaps can further influence the overall auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the EVA switch is designed for a feathery touch, making it exceptionally light to press, which reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This, combined with its silky smoothness and bouncy feedback, results in a very responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is described as polished and mild, offering a smooth, refined finish with gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable and easy to use while maintaining an approachable feel that appeals to various user preferences. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the EVA emphasizes a more playful and lively touch, while the Gold Red Pro focuses on a balanced and gentle typing experience.
In summary, both the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro cater to different user needs through distinct sound and feel attributes. The EVA is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and spirited auditory and tactile experience, perfect for gaming and extended typing with its feathery and bouncy feel. Meanwhile, the Gold Red Pro offers a neutral sound and mild resistance that makes it versatile for various scenarios, providing a seamless and adaptable typing experience. Ultimately, your preference will hinge on whether you favor a vibrant typing experience or a harmonious blend that fits seamlessly into multiple environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you gravitate towards a lighter actuation and enjoy a keyboard that offers a lively, feathery feel with a unique clacky sound, the HMX EVA is likely the way to go. This switch is particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions, whether you're gaming, working, or studying, thanks to its reduced finger fatigue and silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more versatile switch that provides a polished and mild typing experience, complemented by a low-pitched thocky sound, then the TTC Gold Red Pro would be the better option for you. With its neutral sound signature, this switch is adaptable to various environments, making it ideal whether you’re in an office setting or at home. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether that be the sound profile, tactile feedback, or overall typing experience—and choose accordingly to ensure you’re satisfied with your mechanical keyboard setup.
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