HMX EVA vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can greatly enhance your typing experience, and two contenders in this arena are the HMX EVA and the Gateron Melodic. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant hues of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its feathery and silky feel, delivering a resonant sound signature that many users find satisfying during both gaming and typing. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bumps or auditory distractions. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic breathes new life into the clicky switch category with its innovative design, featuring factory lubrication and dual-railed stems that enhance both the tactile feedback and the classic click sound that enthusiasts adore. With its buttery and crunchy characteristics, this switch is perfect for typists who enjoy the audible confirmation of key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preference and style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gateron Melodic, notable differences in sound profile and tactile feedback emerge due to their top housing choices. The EVA utilizes nylon for the top housing, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. This quality not only contributes to a more muted acoustic experience but also provides a tactile softness that many typists find pleasurable. In contrast, the Melodic opts for polycarbonate as its top material, which elicits a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more resonant sound, appealing to users who prefer a brighter auditory feedback while typing.
In examining the bottom housings, both the HMX EVA and Gateron Melodic share the same nylon material. This uniformity highlights a crucial aspect of how tactile experiences can be influenced despite differing top housings. The soft and sound-absorbing qualities of nylon contribute to a rounded and fuller bottom-out feel in both switches. Therefore, even though the top housing is different, the collaborative effect of the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent tactile experience at the bottom of the stroke. This duality creates a unique situation where the switches can be perceived differently during the actuation yet provide comfort and familiarity upon bottoming out.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials between the EVA and the Melodic create distinct auditory landscapes, while their shared nylon bottom housing maintains a level of consistency in tactile feedback. Users seeking a lush, deeper sound will likely gravitate towards the EVA, while those who enjoy a bright, crisp sound will prefer the Melodic. However, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience due to the classic properties of nylon, making them attractive options in their respective categories. Hence, even though their sound profiles diverge, the tactile response at the bottom remains reassuringly similar, creating an interesting synergy between them.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, suggesting a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed, though its actuation force is unspecified. This indicates that the Melodic is heavier overall compared to the EVA, catering to those who favor a firmer keypress for a more tactile experience. Thus, if a user desires a softer, lighter switch for casual or prolonged use, the EVA would be the optimal choice, while the Gateron Melodic would appeal to those looking for a more pronounced push-back from their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, the EVA measures 3.6 mm while the Melodic has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the EVA switch, with its shorter travel distance, may offer quicker response times, making it suitable for gamers seeking enhanced speed and efficiency during gameplay. In contrast, the Melodic switch, with its longer travel distance, provides a more traditional feel that some users may appreciate for its depth and tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the EVA’s 3.6 mm travel distance would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress might favor the Melodic’s 4 mm travel distance.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 presents a clacky auditory experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality that can offer a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch combines resonant and crunchy elements, providing a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, akin to the delightful crunch of stepping on autumn leaves. This means that while both switches offer distinct auditory characteristics, the EVA leans towards a more percussive tone, while the Melodic embraces a clicky sound that adds vibrancy to each keystroke.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the EVA offers an impressive combination of feathery lightness, silky smoothness, and bouncy feedback. This allows for an exceptionally comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and creating a lively sensation upon keypress. On the other hand, the Melodic switch is described as buttery smooth, contributing to a fluid keystroke experience that feels effortless and consistent. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile sensation; however, the EVA provides a broader range of feedback characteristics that some users may find more enjoyable during prolonged typing sessions.
In summary, both the HMX EVA and Gateron Melodic switches embody unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different user preferences. The EVA's clacky sound and silky, feathery feel create a delightful typing experience suited for enthusiasts who appreciate smoothness and lightness. Meanwhile, the Melodic's resonant and crunchy sounds, combined with its buttery smooth action, aim to provide an engaging and classic clicky experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the choice between them will depend on whether one prefers a more linear, smooth typing experience or the traditional tactile feedback of a clicky switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you value a light touch, smooth feel, and a vibrant, clacky sound that allows for effortless typing, especially during long sessions of gaming, schoolwork, or general typing, the EVA is an excellent choice. Its feathery and silky characteristics provide a comfortable experience while minimizing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the nostalgic, tactile feedback of clicky switches and appreciate a more pronounced resistance with a medium bottom-out force, the Gateron Melodic offers a satisfying auditory experience. Its resonant and crunchy sounds enrich your typing with a classic clicky feedback while still ensuring a buttery smooth stroke, making it suitable for those who enjoy the tactile engagement and sound cue during typing. Ultimately, your choice can depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and lightweight experience or prefer the engaging feedback of a clicky switch.
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