HMX EVA vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, stands out with its resonant sound signature and silky smooth feel, offering a unique tactile experience for those who appreciate aesthetics alongside performance. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 has earned a reputation as a long-time community favorite, characterized by its smooth downstroke and rich clack, appealing to users who seek a classic linear switch with a bit more auditory feedback. Both switches cater to distinct sensibilities; the EVA excels in providing a visually and audibly pleasing experience, while the Ink Black V2 offers a polished feel that many users find satisfying and reliable. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches, one immediately notices the distinct differences between the two designs. The EVA features a top and bottom housing constructed from nylon, known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softness allows the EVA to deliver a typing experience characterized by rounded and muted acoustics. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. The combination of these materials results in fundamentally different auditory experiences upon typing.
While both switch designs utilize distinct housing materials, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience varies. The EVA’s nylon creates a more subdued sound profile, which is beneficial for users looking for a quieter typing experience or a more refined acoustic quality. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2’s INK material invites a lively, pronounced clack that some typists might find more satisfying or responsive. These differences in sound profile can influence personal preference significantly, as users often gravitate toward either softer, deeper sounds or sharper, more pronounced acoustics in their mechanical keyboards.
Interestingly, the performance differences between these switches also come down to how the user interacts with them. The EVA’s nylon housing can create a feeling of warmth and comfort during extended typing sessions, which many users appreciate for its tactile properties. Meanwhile, the Ink Black V2’s INK blend provides a more vibrant acoustic response that can be exhilarating for those who enjoy auditory feedback. Ultimately, while the HMX EVA’s nylon housing fosters a deeper sound signature, the Gateron Ink Black V2’s INK blend cultivates a lively auditory experience, leading to contrasting yet engaging typing experiences. Users seeking a similar typing feel may find common ground in either, but their overall auditory feedback will be noticeably different, reflecting their material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, notable differences in weight can be observed. 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 those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel for tactile feedback. Thus, while the EVA is lighter overall, allowing for quicker and less exhausting keystrokes, the Ink Black V2 offers a heavier resistance that might be favored by those who seek a firmer typing experience. Overall, the different weights suggest that each switch caters to varying preferences: the EVA for comfort and prolonged use, and the Ink Black V2 for a more engaged typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the EVA switch provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who favor quicker key actuations. In contrast, the longer 4.0 mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 offers a deeper and more tactile feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that promotes faster response times, the EVA would be the better choice; however, if you're inclined towards a more pronounced key press, the Ink Black V2 would cater to that preference.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 switch presents a resonant and potentially harmonious sound profile, drawing upon its captivating design inspired by Evangelion Unit-01. While exact sound descriptors are unspecified, one could infer a nurturing blend of acoustic qualities that might offer a distinctive auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is noted for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a warm, rich sound during key presses. This switch does introduce a chirpy note that adds a unique twist to its overall acoustic signature. Between the two, the EVA appears less defined in terms of sound while the Ink Black V2 leans towards a deeper, more bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the characteristics of the HMX EVA remain largely undefined, although it is noted for its smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its mildness, making it accessible and comfortable for a broad range of users. Additionally, the polished nature of the Ink Black V2 contributes to a refined typing sensation, resulting in fluid key travel with minimal friction. This suggests that while the EVA may also provide a smooth experience, the specifics of its feel are less thoroughly detailed than that of the Ink Black V2.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA offers a potentially resonant sound signature and a silky smooth feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 provides a well-defined, low-pitched, and rich acoustic experience along with a polished and mild tactile sensation. If you desire an elegant auditory performance and a dynamic typing encounter, both switches can deliver smooth results, although the Ink Black V2's characteristics are more readily articulated. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference in sound and established tactile sensations, making it ideal to consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter bottom-out force and seek a smooth, responsive typing experience with a unique sound signature inspired by a cult classic, the EVA may be the ideal choice for you. This switch’s lower actuation force of 48 grams makes it an excellent option for fast typists and those who prioritize comfort during extended gaming or typing sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams, the Gateron Ink Black V2 will likely cater to your needs better. It offers a dependable, mildly tactile experience combined with a rich, low-pitched sound that resonates beautifully with each key press, making it perfect for individuals who enjoy that deeper auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feel to make the best switch choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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