HMX EVA vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, and the HMX EVA and Kailh BCP serve as two compelling options within the linear switch category. The HMX EVA is celebrated for its unique resonance and smooth typing experience, drawing inspiration from the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01. This switch promises not only a visually appealing aesthetic but also a smooth actuation that reduces finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP reinterprets the beloved Black Cherry Pie switch, offering a delightful combination of elasticity and bounce. Its creamy feel, along with a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, creates an engaging typing experience that some users may find addictive. Both switches offer exceptional performance and tactile enjoyment, making them appealing choices for different types of users. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EVA and Kailh BCP are notably consistent in their use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. Nylon is praised for its sound-dampening qualities, resulting in a typing experience that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the softness of nylon, which absorbs sound better than harder plastics, thereby contributing to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This fundamental similarity positions both the HMX EVA and Kailh BCP switches to create a satisfying acoustic feedback that keyboard enthusiasts appreciate.
However, while both switches utilize nylon, the impact of their housing materials varies slightly based on their design and fabrication. Each switch's performance can be influenced by the specific geometry and tolerances of their respective housings. For instance, even though the sound profile may remain consistent, the feel when pressing the keys can differ due to how tightly the housings fit together or the design of the internal components. This means that, despite the identical choice of nylon, the user experience may diverge slightly. The bottoming-out sound and feel will likely be shaped more by the bottom housing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, users can expect similar auditory results from both the HMX EVA and Kailh BCP due to their shared nylon construction. However, nuances in design can lead to differences in the overall tactile experience and key feel. Ultimately, while the sound quality remains aligned, typing enthusiasts may find that the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the unique sensation each design imparts.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize ease of typing during extended sessions, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Kailh BCP has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This notable difference in forces means that while the EVA offers a lighter touch that can reduce fatigue over long periods, the BCP provides a firmer feedback that might enhance tactile satisfaction. Thus, if a user leans toward lighter switches for comfort, the EVA would be the more suitable option, whereas those who like a stronger push should opt for the BCP.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the EVA the switch with the longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth compared to the BCP. For those who appreciate a more substantial feel with each keypress, the EVA may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, the BCP's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key feel and response time, as the difference in travel distances can influence the overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The HMX EVA linear switch produces a resonant sound signature that can be particularly satisfying to hear during typing. While the exact nuances of this sound are not detailed, it offers a distinctive auditory experience that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP linear switch carries a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, which contributes to a more dynamic acoustic experience. This difference in sound quality highlights the unique characteristics of each switch, with the EVA being more resonant and the BCP leaning toward a lively, engaging auditory output. It's important to note that the sound produced by either switch will also depend on your choice of board and keycaps, which can further shape the overall experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA switch boasts a silky smooth typing experience that is immediately enjoyable for typists who prefer a seamless keystroke. This smooth actuation can make long typing sessions comfortable. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch provides a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel that adds an interesting texture to each keypress. This bounciness can enhance the tactile feedback, making it more engaging for those who thrive on a more dynamic typing experience. While both switches aim to deliver an appealing linear feel, the EVA emphasizes smoothness, whereas the BCP focuses on a bouncier, more tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Kailh BCP linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The EVA presents a resonant sound with a silky smooth feel, ideal for users who desire an elegant typing experience. Conversely, the BCP provides a lively poppy sound coupled with a bouncy and elastic feel, appealing to those who can appreciate a more dynamic interaction. Depending on user preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the choice ultimately boils down to the specific qualities one values in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter switch that allows for rapid typing and a smooth, resonant sound, the EVA is an excellent choice. Its 48-gram bottom out force offers a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, especially if you enjoy the unique aesthetics reminiscent of Evangelion. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more robust feel and a firmer bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP may be better suited for you. Its creamy, elastic feel along with a poppy and clacky sound signature ensures that each keystroke feels satisfying and engaging, great for typists who enjoy tactile feedback and a bit more resistance when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, consider the tactile response and auditory satisfaction you seek; choosing between the EVA and BCP comes down to whether you prioritize a silky smooth experience or a bouncy, dynamic one.
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