HMX EVA vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can profoundly impact your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the HMX EVA and the Outemu Lime. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is a linear switch known for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth feel. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a seamless typing experience without any tactile feedback, allowing for quicker keystrokes and less finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime offers a tactile experience with a lightweight design that is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a subtle bump while typing. Characterized by its feathery touch and muted feedback, the Lime switch caters to tactile fans who seek a more satisfying response without the noise typically associated with tactile switches. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your preferences: the EVA is great for speed and fluidity, while the Lime balances lightness with tactile reassurance. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and the Outemu Lime switches both feature nylon as their top and bottom housing material, which positions them similarly in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Nylon is renowned for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer structure, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic contributes to a more muted auditory feedback when typing, delivering a duller and rounder sound that many users find satisfying. Since both switches utilize nylon throughout, users can expect a comparable typing experience characterized by this distinct sound profile, enhancing the overall acoustic aesthetic of their keyboard setups.
In terms of construction, both switches share the benefits of a homogeneous nylon material that traverses through both the top and bottom housings. This uniformity means that the sound and feel of typing are consistently pleasant, regardless of whether the user's finger is pressing down on a key or releasing it. The impact of the softer material on the bottom housing lends itself particularly well to the bottom-out experience, ensuring that when the key is fully pressed down, the sound and feel remain harmonious. Furthermore, as the top housing also consists of nylon, the same sonorous qualities will resonate when keys are released, indicating that users can expect minimal variation in auditory feedback across the typing action.
Despite the similarities, the characteristics brought forth by the nylon housing materials can nonetheless have slight nuances based on each switch's design or manufacturing specifics. If inherent differences existed in other aspects of these switches—like spring tension or actuation point—users might notice varied tactile feedback or performance. Nevertheless, since both the HMX EVA and Outemu Lime are equipped with identical nylon materials, the similarity in housing reinforces a cohesive sound profile and touch experience that will likely appeal to enthusiasts seeking a consistent auditory and tactile outcome while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The EVA switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lime switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In this comparison, the Outemu Lime switch is the lighter option, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the HMX EVA offers a slightly heavier typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel during use. While both switches are considered light overall, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces highlight the preferences for various user experiences, with the Lime switch being an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lime has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the EVA the longer of the two switches, providing a more pronounced actuation depth, which can be appealing for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Lime’s shorter travel distance may cater more to gamers and those who prefer quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. While both switches fall within the realm of contemporary designs that favor shorter distances for enhanced responsiveness, the EVA is better suited for users who prioritize depth and a more traditional 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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a resonant sound signature that stands out in its category, making it an intriguing option for those who appreciate auditory feedback when typing. The sound is lively and vibrant, which can be appealing for individual use. In contrast, the Outemu Lime tactile switch presents a neutral and muted sound profile. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a workplace setting, as it minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. While the EVA may provide an engaging auditory experience, the Lime emphasizes a quieter and more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, which is ideal for users who prefer a gliding motion across the key travel. This switch likely offers a refined and polished sensation that enhances overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch features a lightweight and less pronounced tactility, providing a gentle feedback that is described as mild and feathery. This allows for comfortable typing sessions with less finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for extensive usage. While both switches aim for a pleasant experience, they cater to different preferences in tactile engagement—smoothness versus light tactility.
In summary, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a resonant sound and a silky feel, making it appealing for those who enjoy a more expressive typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a neutral, muted auditory profile paired with a lightweight and mild tactile feedback, suitable for users seeking comfort and discretion. Depending on personal preference, you would choose one over the other—while both provide enjoyable typing experiences, they do so in notably different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're drawn to a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience that allows you to enjoy the sound of your keystrokes, the EVA's resonant sound signature and silky feel make it an excellent choice. This switch is particularly suited for those who value aesthetics alongside functionality, perhaps if you're an enthusiast who enjoys the unique design inspired by Evangelion. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile experience that offers comfort during long typing sessions, the Outemu Lime is likely better tailored to your needs. With its feather-light actuation and muted sound profile, this switch is ideal for shared environments, whether at home or the office, as it minimizes noise without sacrificing enjoyable tactility. Ultimately, considering how each switch aligns with your typing style and environment will guide you in making the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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