HMX EVA vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is a linear switch celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more dynamic typing experience with its tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, which many typists find satisfying and engaging. This switch is noted for being accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of feedback with each keystroke. Depending on your typing style and preferences, either switch could enhance your keyboard experience, whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, it is clear that these switches utilize different materials for their top housings. The EVA features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This characteristic allows it to absorb sound effectively, creating a sound that is duller and rounder, particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more muted auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for users seeking a more vibrant auditory feedback.
On the other hand, both switches share the same housing material for their bottom sections, which is nylon. This uniformity ensures that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound experience when pressing down on the keys. The softness of the nylon bottom housing absorbs excess sound, contributing to a rounder and more muted keystroke feel. As the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, users of both switches will find that they experience a similar tactile response when engaging with the keys. This offers some consistency in performance despite the differences in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the distinct characteristics of the top housings in the EVA and the V3 Lavender Purple Pro lead to varied sound profiles while typing. The EVA's nylon top housing will create a more subdued sound experience, while the Akko V3 with its polycarbonate top housing is likely to offer a crisper auditory feedback. So, while the bottom housing is consistent and ensures a like-minded tactile experience, the divergence in top materials results in different sound aesthetics. Users looking for a balance between deep, muted sounds and vibrant, sharp sounds can decide their preference based on these contrasting materials, thereby tailoring their typing experience to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a gentler touch and extended typing sessions. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial tactile experience. The difference in these forces indicates that users seeking a softer, less tiring typing experience would likely favor the EVA, while those favoring a firmer push and a more pronounced feedback would prefer the V3 switch. Overall, the EVA is the lighter option, whereas the V3 is the heavier choice, catering to varying preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when you press down on the key, the EVA switch requires a shorter distance to activate compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the EVA switch may offer a more immediate feel, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, with its longer travel distance, might cater to users who prefer a more substantial key press and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference for travel distance; if you favor quicker actuation, the EVA's 3.6 mm distance would be advantageous, but for a more pronounced depth, the 3.8 mm travel of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better option.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a resonant sound signature, which tends to be pleasing and can contribute to a more immersive typing experience. The sound profile is likely to evoke a sense of depth and fullness while typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a higher-pitched sound profile that is distinctively auditory when activated. The presence of a tactile bump further accentuates this sound, making every key press feel noticeable and engaging. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience, but the EVA leans toward a richer resonance, while the V3 is characterized by a sharper, more pronounced note.
When it comes to feel, the EVA switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing users to glide effortlessly from key to key without any disruptions. This smoothness offers a unique comfort, especially for long typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro boasts several feel characteristics, including being accented for medium tactile feedback, bouncy which adds a spring-like sensation, snappy for an immediate response, and polished for a refined key travel experience. This combination results in a dynamic typing feel that is both responsive and enjoyable, contributing to an energetic typing rhythm. The EVA's focus on smoothness contrasts directly with the more varied tactility offered by the Lavender Purple Pro.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch provide unique experiences depending on user preference. The EVA's resonant sound and silky smooth feel cater to those who favor uninterrupted flow, while the Lavender Purple Pro's higher-pitched sound and multifaceted tactile feedback appeal to enthusiasts seeking interaction with each key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to whether you prioritize a buttery typing feel versus a more tactile and responsive experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it's essential to align your choice with your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a resonant sound signature, the HMX EVA is likely your best bet. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it easy on the fingers, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where rapid key presses are required. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feel with a medium-light resistance, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a satisfying tactile bump that enhances your typing experience without being overly tactile or scratchy. The bouncy and snappy nature of the V3 introduces a playful feedback that many find enjoyable, especially in a mixed-use setting where both typing and gaming occur. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize a smooth linear action or a satisfying tactile response, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to your personal enjoyment and workflow.
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