HMX EVA vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and the HMX EVA and Gateron Jupiter Banana exemplify the spectrum of experience available to users. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a fluid and seamless keystroke experience. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out with its tactile feedback, high-precision molds, and enhanced two-stage springs, delivering a pronounced tactile bump that appeals to typists who appreciate a more pronounced connection with their key presses. While the EVA leans towards a linear experience that prioritizes smoothness, the Jupiter Banana offers a tactile engagement that can enhance the typing experience for many. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches differ significantly in the top housing, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the acoustic characteristics of each switch. The EVA utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is marked by a dampened response due to nylon's soft plastic nature. This absorption capacity allows it to generate a warmer sound, ideal for users who prefer a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer composition of polycarbonate lends itself to a clearer and more resonant audio output, making it suitable for typists who enjoy an articulate keystroke sound.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are constructed from nylon. This uniformity means that when typing on either switch, the qualities associated with nylon—such as a deeper, rounder sound—will still manifest. The nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a consistent tactile experience and bottom-out feel, promoting a sense of continuity in sound across both models. Since the bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the feel and sound when the key is pressed down, this similarity will counterbalance the dissimilarities introduced by the top housing.

In practical use, this combination of materials means that, while the overall acoustic experiences will differ significantly between the EVA and Jupiter Banana during the act of releasing a key, the fundamental tactile feedback and sound profile elicited by the bottom housing will remain relatively equivalent. Therefore, typists may experience contrasting auditory sensations when typing at a rapid pace or when releasing keys, but the endpoint of each keystroke will still have a comparable depth due to the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches. Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles between the EVA and Gateron Jupiter Banana showcase the integral role that housing materials play in keyboard design, delivering a unique experience to users depending on their preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there is a significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions, such as during work or extended gaming. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Thus, the EVA switch is the lighter option, while the Jupiter Banana is the heavier one. Overall, users seeking a comfortable, less strenuous typing experience may gravitate towards the EVA, whereas those wanting more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes might find the Jupiter Banana more suitable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Jupiter Banana has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the EVA switch offers a more substantial depth during key presses, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and feel. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana can provide a quicker response time, making it a great choice for gamers seeking faster actuation. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that feels more robust, the HMX EVA would be the better option, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana might be more suitable for those who prioritize responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX EVA linear switch is known for its resonant auditory profile, which contributes to a dynamic and immersive typing experience. This can create a subtle yet engaging atmosphere as you type. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also presents a resonant sound signature but is characterized by its high-pitched tones. This gives the Jupiter Banana a sharp and crisp quality, making it suited for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. While both switches bring a resonant aspect to their sound profiles, the EVA leans towards a fuller, more rounded tone, while the Jupiter Banana serves up a sharper attack. Ultimately, the sound experience can be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycaps used, so these nuances might become more apparent depending on those factors.

In terms of feel, the HMX EVA offers a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate a fluid keystroke that allows for rapid typing without any hindrance. This facilitates an effortless interaction with the keys, perfect for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana shines with its polished and creamy texture, providing a refined and buttery feel under the fingers. The two-stage springs in the Jupiter Banana enhance its responsiveness while ensuring a comfortable return, adding a level of tactile satisfaction during use. While the EVA offers smoothness, the Jupiter Banana combines smoothness with a tactile feedback that makes it distinctively enjoyable for users who prefer palpable sensations during typing.

In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EVA excels in delivering a resonant yet smooth typing experience, while the Jupiter Banana provides a crisp, high-pitched sound along with a polished and creamy feel. Ultimately, you will choose between these options based on whether you prioritize sound profile or tactile feedback, but both could deliver satisfying performance depending on your typing style and keyboard setup.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth typing experience, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a resonant sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing. This switch is ideal for those who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, making it perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and a robust, medium-heavy feel, the Jupiter Banana could be the switch for you. With its high-pitched and resonant sound character, this switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience that many find satisfying for both typing and general use. Therefore, if you enjoy the sensation of each keystroke and prefer to have a bit more resistance, the Gateron Jupiter Banana might meet your needs better. In conclusion, carefully consider what aspects matter most to you—be it the weight of the switch, the sound profile, or the tactile experience—before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more