HMX EVA vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh their options between various models to find the perfect feel and sound for their typing habits. Among the standout choices are the HMX EVA and the Huano Grape Orange, both linear switches that cater to slightly different preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offers a unique blend of resonant sound and a silky smooth typing experience, characterized by its feathery and clacky feel. In contrast, the Grape Orange switch excels with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience that's ideal for marathon typing sessions. While the EVA might appeal to those who appreciate a more auditory and tactile feedback, the Grape Orange delivers unmatched ease of use, making it a great choice for those prioritizing comfort and speed. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Huano Grape Orange, we notice a distinct divergence in their top housing compositions. The EVA employs nylon for its top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's relatively softer nature, as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Grape Orange utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisper auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material composition defines how each switch interacts with sound, providing users with contrasting tactile responses when typing.

Both switches, however, share a similarity in their bottom housing construction, as both the EVA and the Grape Orange use nylon for this part. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, mirroring the characteristics of the EVA’s top housing. This means that while the top housing of each switch affects its auditory output significantly, the bottom housing's effects remain consistent across both models. This coherence in material usage allows users to have a uniform tactile experience and sound profile when bottoming out the switches, ensuring that although the top housings differ in their sound qualities, the foundational performance of both switches can still feel alike.

Overall, the contrasting sound profiles created by the distinct top housing materials juxtaposed with the shared nylon bottom housing allows for a unique yet somewhat unified typing experience. By leveraging nylon's sound-absorbing properties for the bottoms, both switches evoke a sense of depth during key presses, while the varied top materials shape the nuances in sound when keys are released. This configuration ensures that, despite their differences, users can still achieve satisfying results in terms of tactile feedback and auditory experience, especially when bottoming out, aligning the performance outcomes of the HMX EVA and the Huano Grape Orange in harmonious yet distinctive ways.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lightweight option. In contrast, the Grape Orange features a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. While both switches are classified as light, the Grape Orange offers a marginally lighter feel during actuation, yet requires a bit more effort to bottom out compared to the EVA. Those who favor a lighter typing experience may appreciate the EVA's lower bottom out force, making it better suited for prolonged use in work or gaming settings. Conversely, users who prefer the tactile feedback of a heavier force may lean toward the Grape Orange, particularly for its overall firmer feel.

Travel distance

The travel distance for both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is 3.6 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when using keys equipped with either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience across both options. As such, individuals seeking a linear switch with a specific travel distance can confidently choose either the EVA or the Grape Orange, assured that they will achieve similar results in terms of key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX EVA linear switch features a distinct clacky quality, producing a sharp and snappy auditory response with each key press. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it engaging for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch does not have a specified sound profile provided, which means its acoustic qualities remain unknown. However, users should keep in mind that the sound of any switch can vary greatly based on the specific keyboard and keycap configuration used.

Regarding the feel of the switches, the EVA stands out with its exceptional feathery touch, requiring minimal effort for actuation, which is ideal for prolonged use without fatigue. Coupled with a silky smoothness, this switch enhances the overall typing experience, creating a seamless action when keys are pressed and released. Additionally, the EVA offers a bouncy feedback sensation, adding an enjoyable liveliness to each keystroke. The Grape Orange switch, however, lacks specific descriptors about its feel, leaving its tactile experience uncertain. Nevertheless, its ultra-low actuation force of 40g suggests it may also provide a comfortable typing experience, particularly for users who type for extended periods.

In conclusion, while the HMX EVA linear switch is notable for its clacky sound and exceptionally smooth, feathery, and bouncy feel, the Huano Grape Orange switch's specific qualities regarding sound and feel remain undefined. However, with its light actuation force, the Grape Orange may still deliver a satisfying typing experience, reminiscent of the EVA's comfort and ease. For those looking for those attributes, similar results can likely be achieved, whether choosing the EVA or the Grape Orange, depending on individual preferences and typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX EVA and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that offers a unique auditory experience with a clacky sound profile, along with a notably light actuation force and a silky, feathery feel, the HMX EVA would be an excellent choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for typists who enjoy tactile feedback and require a smooth feel for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming or work. On the other hand, if your priority is an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, the Grape Orange linear switch is ideal, especially due to its ultra-low actuation force of just 40 grams. It ensures minimal finger fatigue, making it perfect for long writing sessions or casual typing tasks where comfort is key. Ultimately, both switches cater to different user experiences, so carefully consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the best choice for you.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more