HMX EVA vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and the Durock Ice King Linear stand out as exemplary choices for those seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offers not only a resonant sound signature but also a notably smooth typing feel, making it an appealing option for enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics as much as performance. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear excels in delivering a silky smooth experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, providing a polished and frictionless typing experience that many users crave. Each switch has its own allure; the HMX EVA captivates with its thematic design and unique auditory feedback, while the Ice King Linear is celebrated for its refined build quality and effortless keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Durock Ice King Linear switches, it becomes clear that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common choice reflects a significant similarity between the two products, as nylon is widely recognized for its acoustic properties and overall performance in mechanical switches. The characteristic deeper and fuller sound profile that accompanies nylon housings is likely to be experienced across both switches, ensuring a qualitatively similar auditory experience for users. This shared material choice suggests that both the EVA and Ice King Linear will generate comparable sound profiles, providing a sense of cohesion in performance between the two options.
In addition to the acoustic properties, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings contributes to the tactile experience users will encounter. As a softer plastic, nylon has the ability to absorb sound better than harder materials. This absorption leads to a more muted and rounded sound when a key is bottomed out, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both the EVA and Ice King Linear housing configurations will exhibit these qualities, emphasizing a quiet and refined keystroke. Therefore, users will find that while they may be choosing between different switch models, the fundamental tactile feedback associated with the nylon material remains constant.
However, it is essential to consider the impact of the switch design beyond just the material. While both the HMX EVA and Durock Ice King Linear share nylon as their housing material, the distribution of sound and feel between the top and bottom housings may be influenced by design variations unique to each switch. The EVA's design might offer different characteristics in feel or resistance during key press compared to the Ice King Linear, affecting the final user experience. Therefore, while the materials ensure similar acoustic qualities, it’s the intricate designs that influence the nuanced differences in typing feel and performance. A thorough comparison of each model should encompass not only the material properties but also the intended design and engineering decisions that confer distinct tactile experiences to the user.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch present notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which cater to varying user preferences. The EVA switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a lighter touch, facilitating prolonged typing sessions and enhancing comfort during extended use. In contrast, the Ice King Linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel with a stronger push. This added resistance may provide more tactile feedback, which some typists might find satisfying. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter switch for ease during long periods of typing should opt for the EVA, while those wanting a heavier, more substantial switch experience should consider the Ice King Linear.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EVA linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This minor difference may seem negligible, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. The EVA, with its longer travel distance, may provide users with a more pronounced feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keystroke for a satisfying typing sensation. In contrast, the Ice King, being shorter, may be more suited for gamers seeking quick response times and a more abrupt feel, aligning with the trend towards shorter travel distances in modern keyboards. Ultimately, if you are looking for a well-rounded experience with a bit more depth, the HMX EVA could be the better choice, while the Durock Ice King might cater more to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 is noted for its resonant sound signature, which implies a rich and deep auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear is characterized as having a subdued sound, producing a dampened effect when the keys are pressed. While not completely silent, the Ice King offers a more subtle auditory profile, making it preferable for environments where quieter operation is preferred. It's worth noting that sound perception can vary significantly based on the chosen keyboard build, type of keycaps, and even personal preference, but the EVA will likely deliver a more pronounced audible response compared to the quieter, more muted nature of the Ice King.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the HMX EVA is known for its silky smooth typing experience, though further detail on its specific tactile characteristics is missing. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear excels with a plethora of descriptors indicating an exceptionally smooth sensation while typing. The Ice King is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, alluding to a seamless travel that minimizes any resistance as you engage the keys. The Ice King's factory lubrication, combined with its nylon construction, contributes to an effortlessly smooth experience that feels almost luxurious under the fingers. If the EVA switch shares similar smooth qualities, typing on it should also provide a pleasurable experience, albeit without the extensive detail on its tactile feedback.
In summary, both the HMX EVA and Durock Ice King Linear switches promise a smooth typing experience, with the EVA offering a resonant sound that contrasts with the Ice King's subdued profile. While the EVA's tactile feedback remains somewhat unspecified, the Ice King's extensive description indicates it provides a rich array of qualities that elevate the overall typing experience. If you seek a more pronounced auditory response, the EVA may be your choice, while the Ice King offers the advantage of quiet yet silky operation, making them suitable for different preferences yet converging on that smooth typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. The HMX EVA, with its lighter 48-gram bottom-out force, is perfect for those who favor a softer touch and want a lively, resonant sound signature, ideal for gaming or typing environments where quick, responsive keystrokes are essential. Its vibrant colors and smooth feel also add a unique aesthetic flair that can appeal to fans of design. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience that combines a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 62 grams with a subdued sound, the Durock Ice King Linear is likely to be your go-to choice. Its silky, frictionless nature, complemented by factory lubrication, provides an exceptionally smooth and creamy typing feel that enhances productivity and comfort during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you value more: the light, reverberant touch of the EVA or the substantial, polished experience of the Ice King.
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