HMX EVA vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence both typing comfort and overall experience. The HMX EVA switch, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offers a feathery, silky, and clacky typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a smooth, quiet performance with a pleasant sound profile. Its unique resonant signature enhances the typing experience by adding a layer of auditory feedback that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch brings a completely different sensation to the table. Known for its strong tactile feedback and sharp tactile bump, this switch provides an impactful typing experience marked by a medium-heavy resistance and a snappy sound profile on both down and upstrokes, creating a hypertactile sensation that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a more responsive feel. While the EVA switch leans toward a smooth and effortless type feel, the Moyu Black delivers an exhilarating tactile experience that engages the typist more actively. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches differ significantly in their housing materials, which fundamentally contributes to their acoustic properties and overall typing experience. The EVA utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material renowned in the mechanical switch community for its ability to produce a deeper and more resonant sound profile. Nylon is softer than many other plastics, which helps absorb sound waves effectively, resulting in a fuller auditory response upon key presses. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) employs PBT for both its top and bottom housings. PBT is recognized for yielding a more neutral sound profile — not excessively crisp nor particularly dull, which means that it offers less sonic warmth compared to the nylon of the EVA.
When it comes to the sensation of typing, these differences in housing materials further evolve the user’s experience. The EVA's nylon housings aim to create a softer and more cushioned feel, allowing for a smoother bottom-out experience. This softness can be especially appealing to typists who prefer a quieter environment, as the nylon construction promotes sound absorption on bottoming out. On the other hand, the Moyu Black's PBT materials present a more balanced touch, giving the user a steady feel without leaning too heavily on any extreme sound quality. This can result in a more versatile typing experience, suitable for a mix of gaming and typing without overwhelming auditory feedback.
Despite the varied sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches can deliver enjoyable outcomes due to their construction. For instance, while the EVA is expected to excel in producing a rounder sound that absorbs more noise, the Moyu Black's neutral tone ensures that neither sound is too pronounced or too muted during usage. This means that users who appreciate the qualities of each material type may still find satisfaction in either switch, albeit for different reasons. Ultimately, those who prefer a subtler sound and a more moderate typing experience might lean toward the Moyu Black, while those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience could favor the EVA — both switches deliver reliable and distinct overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a light touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a significantly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial tactile experience suited to users who appreciate a firmer keystroke. As a result, while the EVA is ideal for users seeking comfort during prolonged use, the Moyu Black offers a stronger push feel for those who enjoy a heavier switch. Overall, the EVA is the lighter option whereas the Moyu Black is the heavier one, influencing the typing experience according to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Moyu Black stands at 4 mm. This makes the EVA switch the shorter of the two, providing a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers who seek quicker actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the Moyu Black's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a deeper, more substantial feel which some users may prefer for its tactile feedback and overall typing experience. If you are inclined towards a more abrupt feel, the EVA might suit your preferences better, whereas those who enjoy a more hearty depth may gravitate towards the Moyu Black. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more traditional typing experience.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 clacky auditory profile, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone when keys are pressed. This sharpness contributes to an enjoyable typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is noted for its resonant sound signature. It produces a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp sound profile, which provides an immersive auditory experience that complements its tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique sound qualities, with the EVA being more punchy and the Moyu Black more ethereal, but sound perception can always be influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the EVA switch is celebrated for its feathery lightness, silky smoothness, and bouncy nature. This combination allows for minimal finger fatigue, making it an excellent option for extensive typing sessions. The bouncy feedback enhances the overall typing experience, providing a playful and lively sensation. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is distinguished by its sharp and accented tactile feedback. The strong tactile bump delivers an impactful sensation at the actuation point, especially accentuated on the upstroke. This switch provides a powerful tactile feedback that may not be as smooth, but delivers high-intensity feedback with a pronounced crispness in each keystroke, catering well to enthusiasts who prefer a defined tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches offer distinctly different sound profiles, with the EVA leaning towards a clacky sound and the Moyu Black favoring resonance, their feel differentiates them even more markedly. The EVA excels in providing a light, smooth, and bouncy typing experience, making it great for extended use, whereas the Moyu Black offers a tactile experience that is sharp and impactful, appealing to those who appreciate a well-defined feedback. Depending on personal preference, either switch can cater to unique typing styles, allowing users to choose based on the auditory and tactile sensations they prefer.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you favor a light touch and a smooth, feathery feel, the EVA is an excellent option, especially for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory dimension that can enhance your gaming or work experience. Conversely, if you appreciate a tactile feedback that is more pronounced and engaging, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force and sharp tactile sensations make it ideal for those who enjoy a punchy and responsive typing experience. In summary, choose the EVA for effortless typing with a pleasing resonance and light feel, or go for the Moyu Blacks for that strong tactile clarity which can contribute to a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke.
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