HMX EVA vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly affect the typing experience. The HMX EVA and HMX Lotus are two linear switches that stand out, each offering a unique feel and auditory feedback. Inspired by the striking colors of the iconic Evangelion Unit-01, the HMX EVA is known for its feathery, silky touch combined with a clacky sound signature, making it a great choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus delivers a delightful bouncy sensation with its medium weight of 50g at bottom out and an equally bright, resonant sound that brings a playful character to every keystroke. While both switches fall under the linear category, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences. The EVA may appeal more to those who desire a softer and quieter typing experience, whereas the Lotus could attract users looking for a bit more feedback and liveliness. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX EVA and the HMX Lotus are notably similar, as both models utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant because nylon is revered for its acoustic properties, facilitating a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Since both the EVA and Lotus use the same nylon composition, users can expect a consistent auditory response when typing on either switch. The softer plastic of nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory feedback that contributes to a more pleasant keyboard experience.
By employing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, both the EVA and the Lotus will elicit comparable tactile experiences. The bottom housing's characteristics predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the key, while the top housing comes into play during the release of the key. Because both models share identical housing materials, the impact of sound and feedback will be harmoniously blended across the switch. Users can anticipate a satisfying consistency in performance, characterized by the richness of sound and tactile feedback regardless of which model they choose.
In practice, this means that even though the EVA and Lotus may feature different designs or mechanisms, the fundamental qualities provided by the nylon material will yield a similar outcome. The keypress sensations and auditory experiences are expected to align closely because of the inherently shared material properties. Thus, whether users opt for the EVA or the Lotus, they can enjoy a unified feel and sound performance grounded in the classic characteristics of nylon, ensuring a delightful and harmonious typing experience across both keyboard switches.
Weight
The HMX EVA and HMX Lotus linear switches display similar lightweight characteristics, though there are slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lotus requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Consequently, the EVA is the lighter switch, potentially making it more suitable for users who prefer long typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Lotus, with its heavier forces, may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel and tactile feedback during keystrokes. Both switches are relatively light, allowing users to enjoy a comfortable typing experience while still catering to different preferences in typing feel and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lotus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the EVA switch offers a more substantial depth when pressed down, which may appeal to those who prefer a heavier key feel, in contrast to the Lotus switch, which provides a marginally quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. This makes the Lotus potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster key presses, while the EVA may cater more to users who appreciate a more pronounced key engagement. In summary, the EVA is the longer switch at 3.6 mm, and the Lotus is the shorter one at 3.5 mm, with users preferring responsiveness likely favoring the Lotus, whereas those who appreciate a heartier depth might opt for the EVA.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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, both the HMX EVA and HMX Lotus linear switches offer a clacky profile. This means that each key press produces a sharp, snappy sound characterized by a crisp and bright tone. Despite their shared auditory qualities, it's important to remember that the overall sound experience can be influenced by your keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. Ultimately, you'll likely enjoy a similarly resonant and percussive sound with both switches, making them suitable for users who appreciate a more vibrant auditory feedback during their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the EVA and Lotus switches also exhibit notable similarities. Both switches are described as feathery, requiring minimal effort to press and thus reducing finger fatigue during prolonged usage. Additionally, they provide a silky experience that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance when typing. What sets them apart is the Lotus switch's emphasis on a bouncier feedback, providing a spring-like sensation that can make each keystroke feel more lively and responsive compared to the EVA. However, both switches promise a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, making them excellent choices for gaming, work, or casual typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Lotus linear switches deliver a delightful combination of sound and feel. With their clacky sound profiles and light, feathery touch, users can expect similar auditory and tactile satisfaction from both options. The standout feature of the Lotus is its bounciness, which could appeal to those looking for an energetic typing experience. Overall, whether you lean towards the EVA or the Lotus, you're set to enjoy an engaging and pleasurable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA and HMX Lotus linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a remarkably light touch and seek a switch that has a feathery feel combined with a silky smooth typing experience, the EVA is an ideal choice, particularly for prolonged typing sessions, whether for gaming, work, or school projects. Its distinctive clacky sound profile and lighter 48g actuation force contribute to less finger fatigue, making it a great fit for users who may type or game for extended periods. On the other hand, if you favor a slightly firmer key feel with a medium weight of 50g and appreciate a more pronounced bouncy feedback with each keystroke, the Lotus switch will be more appealing. This switch, while still retaining a lightness, provides a more textured experience that enhances your engagement while typing or gaming. Essentially, your choice should reflect your desire for either a lighter, smoother touch or a bouncier, slightly firmer experience, while both options maintain that appealing clacky sound that enriches the tactile experience of mechanical keyboards.
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