HMX EVA vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing preferences, the HMX EVA and Gateron Ink Box Pink offer distinct experiences despite both being linear types. The HMX EVA stands out with its design inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, delivering a resonant sound signature along with a silky smooth feel, making it an enticing option for those who appreciate a "feathery" touch complemented by subtle clacks. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its beautiful translucent construction and a notably lighter typing sensation, which can create a higher-pitched clack that many users find pleasing. Both switches have their unique appeal, with the EVA attracting fans of a more balanced auditory experience and the Ink Box Pink appealing to those who enjoy a polished and energetic feel. 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

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EVA and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches both utilize different materials for their housings, each of which contributes uniquely to the overall typing experience. The EVA switch features nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is a traditional and widely-respected choice in switch design. Nylon's softer composition allows for a deeper, more rounded sound profile that absorbs vibrations effectively, leading to an overall fuller auditory experience when typing. This contrasts sharply with the Gateron Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend, which, while still providing a high-quality sound, leans towards a higher-pitched and clacky tone. The differences in material directly influence how each switch performs acoustically and tactilely.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, a similar divergence in sound characteristics arises. The EVA's nylon bottom housing continues the trend of producing that warm, deep sound profile, creating a cohesive experience throughout both the upstroke and downstroke of the keypress. Meanwhile, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing preserves the pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, providing a lively distinction during the bottom-out action. This differentiation illustrates how the same typing action can evoke a distinct auditory response due to the materials chosen, emphasizing the importance of housing material in forming user preferences.

Ultimately, if a switch features different materials for the top and bottom housing, the resulting sound and feel will reflect a combination of both. In the case of the EVA, the deeper sound profile may be heard more distinctly when the key is released, thanks to the nylon top absorbing more sound frequencies. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink’s higher-pitched output may be more prominent during the release, as the pointed tones of the INK blend will resonate through the top housing. Thus, users can expect varied experiences with these switches: while both offer quality typing experiences, the materials used create subtly different acoustic signatures that speak to the individual preferences of typists.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The HMX EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams, which makes it easier to trigger, along with a bottom out force of 48 grams when pressing all the way down. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer feel when typing, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feedback upon reaching the key's lowest point. Consequently, those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the HMX EVA, while users who enjoy a stronger push feel and more resistance would likely prefer the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Overall, the EVA is the lighter switch, and the Ink Box Pink is the heavier option.

Travel distance

Both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since the travel distances are the same, the performance and tactile experience across both switches should be quite comparable, allowing for a consistent typing experience. Users seeking either switch can rest assured they will receive the same physical travel characteristics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the HMX EVA and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. The EVA provides a resonant sound signature, contributing to a vibrant auditory experience that many typists find engaging. The Ink Box Pink, while also clacky, is noted for its higher-pitched tone, which adds a distinctive crispness to the overall sound profile. This difference in pitch could make the Ink Box Pink more appealing to those who prefer a brighter acoustic signature, whereas the EVA might resonate better with users looking for a more rounded sound. Ultimately, users will find clarity and vivacity in the auditory experiences of both switches, though the Ink Box Pink leans towards a sharper resonance.

Regarding feel, the HMX EVA shines with descriptors like feathery, silky, and bouncy. This combination creates an exceptionally light and smooth typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue and enhancing comfort during extended use. The bouncy nature of the EVA adds a playful element, giving satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink also has a silky feel, ensuring a smooth typing experience, but it is additionally described as polished, suggesting a heightened refinement in its smoothness and reduced friction. While both switches provide a pleasurable typing experience, the EVA leans toward a light and lively touch, while the Ink Box Pink offers a sleek and refined engagement, perfect for those who appreciate a bit more elegance in their keystrokes.

In conclusion, while both the HMX EVA and Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches offer clacky sound profiles, they differ in pitch, with the Ink Box Pink being notably higher. The feel of the EVA is characterized by a pleasant bounciness and an emphasis on light actuation, while the Ink Box Pink focuses on a polished and smooth experience. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, you may gravitate toward one switch over the other; however, both offer high-quality, enjoyable typing experiences that can make your mechanical keyboard use satisfying and engaging.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a lighter typing feel coupled with an engaging and feathery actuation, the HMX EVA switch may be more suited for you, especially for long typing sessions in gaming or work settings due to its reduced finger fatigue and smooth tactile response. This switch’s resonant clacky sound can also enhance the auditory experience, making it feel more dynamic and responsive as you type. Alternatively, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a bottom-out force that leans toward medium, the Gateron Ink Box Pink could be your go-to option. Its polished feel and high-pitched clack provide a unique auditory feedback that some users find particularly satisfying, making it great for touch typists or those looking for a refined typing experience. In essence, consider the HMX EVA for comfort and a lighter touch and the Ink Box Pink for a more substantial feel and crisp sound do in either gaming or productivity tasks.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more