HMX EVA vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and Dareu Mahjong stand out as two compelling options, both offering a linear typing experience but with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is renowned for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches feature a lively, poppy sound signature, complemented by their unique green and white color scheme, which delivers a bouncy and effortless typing experience that many users find invigorating. While both switches provide a satisfying linear touch, the EVA emphasizes a more subdued sound and smoother action, whereas the Mahjong leans towards a brighter auditory experience with a pronounced 'pop.' However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
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 it comes to the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Dareu Mahjong switches, there are notable similarities and differences that influence their overall typing experiences. The EVA utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This classic material is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound effectively due to its softer plastic properties. The result is a typing experience characterized by sound dampening, leading to a more subdued auditory feedback, which many users find pleasant and less intrusive.
In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong incorporates a different material for the top housing, namely POK (polyketone), while maintaining nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material is praised for its durability and smoothness, with a lower coefficient of friction than traditional materials, contributing to a more refined feel. This difference means that when typing on the Mahjong, users can expect a clacky sound profile due to the resonant qualities of nylon in the bottom housing, while the POK top housing enhances the tactile sensation and response during keystrokes. The shock resistance and wear performance of the POK material also suggest that the typing experience may be snappier and satisfyingly quick as compared to the all-nylon structure of the EVA.
Despite these differences in top housing materials, both switches can produce a similar quality of sound due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. Since nylon contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound, both the EVA and Mahjong will have a degree of resonance and fullness when pressed down. However, the key distinction lies in the overall tactile feedback and sound character when releasing the keys; the Mahjong may offer a more pronounced tactile experience thanks to the POK top housing, while the EVA maintains a more rounded acoustic quality since both its housings are made of nylon. Thus, while the similarities in nylon do lead to comparable sound profiles, the differing top materials create unique experiences that cater to varying user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though the bottom out force for the Mahjong remains unspecified. The EVA switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams coupled with a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a lighter feel, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Mahjong switch features a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, which offers a firmer resistance when typing. Without knowing its bottom out force, it’s difficult to fully assess how it compares in that category. Therefore, while the EVA is the lighter option overall, the Mahjong’s actuation force suggests it may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, users looking for a lighter touch should opt for the EVA switch, while those favoring a heavier actuation should consider the Mahjong.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mahjong offers a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This means that, for users seeking a more responsive feel, the Mahjong's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers who favor quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the EVA's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press, offering a greater tactile feedback that can feel more substantial. In summary, the HMX EVA has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong, at 3.4 mm, offers the shorter option, catering to different preferences in switch feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 switch produces a resonant sound signature that sets it apart with its unique tonal quality, reminiscent of its anime inspiration. This creates an immersive auditory experience that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch has a lively and poppy sound signature that brings an energetic dynamism to typing. While both switches provide an engaging sound profile, the EVA offers a more resonant tone, whereas the Mahjong leans towards a bright, vibrant delivery. It's worth noting that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's build and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the EVA switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for a fluid and effortless key press. It creates an immediate sensation of ease when typing, which many users find appealing. In contrast, the Mahjong switch combines a bouncy feel with a polished finish, delivering a slight rebound upon pressing that adds an enjoyable tactile feedback. The combination of bounciness and mild characteristics makes the Mahjong feel dynamic yet approachable, appealing to a wider range of users, especially those who favor a lively typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Dareu Mahjong linear switches bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the EVA excels in resonant sound and silky smoothness, the Mahjong stands out with its lively sound and a bouncy feel, making each switch a fine choice depending on individual preferences. Users looking for a polished, gentle experience might gravitate towards the Mahjong due to its versatile characteristics, whereas those drawn to a themed experience with a smooth touch may prefer the EVA. Regardless of choice, both options promise an engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended use cases. If you value a light touch and enjoy a silky smooth typing experience, the HMX EVA, with its 48-gram bottom-out force and resonant sound signature, may be the ideal choice for you, particularly if you're drawn to its unique aesthetic inspired by Evangelion Unit-01. This switch is excellent for prolonged typing sessions, gaming, or any work that requires a repeated keystroke, allowing for less fatigue over time. On the other hand, if you prefer a lively and bouncy feel in your switches with a more neutral sound profile, the Dareu Mahjong switch could be your go-to. Its elastic feedback and polished finish provide a gentle yet engaging typing experience, making it suitable for both casual typing at home and more focused tasks at work. Ultimately, aligning your choice with your specific tactile and auditory preferences will enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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