HMX EVA vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The HMX EVA, a linear switch inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and resonant sound signature. This category appeals to those who enjoy a seamless keystroke without any tactile interruptions, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists who prefer a fluid and quick response. On the other hand, the Durock Koala, a tactile switch, strikes a perfect balance for users who appreciate a bit of feedback in their keystrokes. Known for its stepped tactility, the Koala offers a pronounced bump that enhances typing accuracy while still being pleasant to type on, accompanied by a gentle resonance that won’t disturb your surroundings. With these distinct characteristics in play, the choice between the HMX EVA and the Durock Koala comes down to whether you prefer the smoothness of linear switches or the tactile satisfaction of a well-defined bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX EVA and the Durock Koala, a key distinction lies in their top housing materials. The EVA employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributable to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound and results in a dull and rounded acoustic experience. In contrast, the Koala features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes a sharper, more crisp sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate translates to a clearer resonance, giving it an edge in terms of sound clarity. Essentially, while both switches may provide satisfying typing experiences, the EVA's nylon top housing is likely to appeal to users who prefer a warmer, muted sound, whereas the Koala's polycarbonate top will attract those desiring a bright and crisp auditory feedback.
On the other hand, both the EVA and Koala utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which inherently presents a similarity in this aspect. Each switch benefits from the qualities of nylon, known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller tone. This commonality means that regardless of the top housing material, both switches provide a rich bottom-out experience. This further reinforces the concept that when both switches are pressed down, users will experience a similar depth of sound due to the nylon bottom housing, thereby uniting their performance in this respect.
The interaction of diverse materials results in a unique combination of auditory feedback in both switches. For the EVA, the softer nylon top and bottom complement each other, leading to a cohesive sound experience focused on warmth and depth. Meanwhile, the Koala, with its crisp polycarbonate top, combined with the soft nylon bottom, creates a transition that maintains the sharpness associated with its upper section while grounding the sound with the bottom's plush characteristics. Thus, even with contrasting top housings, the common nylon bottom in both switches ensures that users will enjoy a satisfying tactile feel, merging diverse sound profiles into a singularly gratifying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EVA features a lightweight actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for prolonged use, such as in a work environment or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Koala lacks a specified actuation force but has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which suggests a firmer feel when bottoming out. This heavier resistance may cater to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In summary, the EVA switch is the lighter option overall, while the Koala switch, with its higher bottom out force, is heavier, making it better suited for those who appreciate a more robust push sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the EVA measures at 3.6 mm, while the Koala features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the EVA the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who favor quicker response times in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Koala's longer travel distance of 4.0 mm provides a more substantial feeling during activation, which some users prefer for its hearty depth and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and the desirability of a more pronounced key feel.
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 Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 characteristics, the HMX EVA linear switch produces a resonant sound signature that is likely more pronounced than the Durock Koala tactile switch, which offers a lower-pitched and somewhat neutral sound profile. The EVA's sound signature can resonate beautifully, potentially accentuating the typing experience, while the Koala maintains a mellower tone that is suitable for various environments, like home or work. This makes the Koala an adaptable option, ensuring a quieter and less intrusive auditory presence, which is advantageous for those who might be sharing their space with others. Both switches can, of course, be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps, but the EVA's likely more resonant sound could set it apart in terms of auditory dynamics.
In terms of feel, the EVA switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, presenting a seamless actuation that typists often crave in a linear switch. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is characterized by its stepped tactility that delivers a medium tactile feedback without being overly aggressive. The Koala switches are also polished, resulting in reduced friction for a refined keystroke. This nuanced tactile feedback can enhance typing precision, as users experience a defined bump that marks the actuation point without overwhelming their fingers, unlike the EVA, which provides an uninterrupted flow during typing.
In conclusion, the HMX EVA and Durock Koala switches cater to different preferences while providing their own unique attributes. The EVA, with its smooth and resonant experience, may appeal more to those seeking a straightforward linear feel with enhanced sound dynamics. In contrast, the Koala serves well for users who appreciate tactile feedback combined with a balanced sound profile and a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, those deciding between these switches should consider how they prioritize sound and feel in their typing experience, as both switches can deliver satisfying results tailored to different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter touch and desire a smooth, almost effortless typing experience, the EVA is an excellent option. Its design, inspired by Evangelion, not only adds a unique aesthetic but also delivers an engaging sound signature that can make your typing more enjoyable, especially in relaxed settings or while gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a noticeable bump during keystrokes while still appreciating a smooth feel, the Koala switch is likely the better fit. Its medium-heavy actuation force offers a satisfying resistance that might be appealing when typing for longer durations, balancing tactile enjoyment without becoming overwhelming. Additionally, the Koala's resonant, low-pitched tone makes it versatile for both home and office environments, where a moderate sound profile is often desirable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother typing experience with the EVA or a more tactile sensation with the Koala.
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