HMX EVA vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and Cherry MX Speed Silver both offer unique characteristics tailored to different user experiences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its feathery, silky touch and a resonant sound profile that provides a clacky yet smooth typing feel, making it an appealing choice for typists and content creators who appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of auditory engagement. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for gamers who seek unparalleled responsiveness with its linear action and low spring resistance, allowing for instantaneous actuation to enhance performance in fast-paced gameplay. While both switches excel in their respective domains, they cater to varied preferences: the EVA focuses on an enjoyable typing experience with more feedback, while the Speed Silver prioritizes speed and efficiency. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, both feature nylon in both the top and bottom housings. This similarity plays a significant role in the acoustic and tactile experiences of users. Given that nylon is a relatively soft plastic, it absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. Users can expect a satisfying auditory experience when typing, as the nylon contributes to a dampened, yet rich auditory feedback, providing a more pleasant typing experience as compared to switches that utilize harder plastics.
While both switches share identical housing materials, the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience should be noted. The bottom housing significantly contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing is more influential during the release phase, affecting the sound generated when a key is lifted. Therefore, even though both the HMX EVA and MX Speed Silver utilize nylon in their construction, the way these materials interact in their respective housing may provide a slightly varied feedback depending on the user’s preference in key feel and sound signature during typing.
Ultimately, the tangible similarities between the EVA and MX Speed Silver switches in terms of their nylon housings suggest that users could achieve comparable sound and feel outcomes between the two. The design choices inherent to both switches structure the auditory experience they provide, leading to similarly satisfying results in terms of acoustic performance. Both switches allow users to enjoy the benefits of nylon's sound dampening properties, making them well-suited for those who prioritize a pleasant auditory experience while typing. As a result, enthusiasts can rest assured that their choice between the two will yield a comparable typing experience, with slight variations based on individual preferences and usage contexts.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit some notable differences in their actuation forces, as well as uncertainty regarding the bottom out force of the latter. The EVA switch has a light actuation force of 42 grams, complemented by a bottom out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, though its bottom out force remains unknown. This means that while the EVA switch is overall lighter in terms of actuation and bottom-out force, the Speed Silver is constructed to provide a more substantial feel with its higher actuation requirement. For users seeking a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods—ideal for work or gaming—the HMX EVA might prove to be the more suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a firmer feedback while typing, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be more appealing despite the lack of clarity about its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver measures at 3.4 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Speed Silver the shorter option, appealing to gamers who prioritize quicker response times. On the other hand, the HMX EVA offers a longer travel distance, which some users might find more satisfying, providing a deeper and more tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference: for speed and responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the better choice, whereas the HMX EVA may cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced travel depth.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 considering sound, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a clacky auditory experience, producing a crisp and bright tone that adds a lively character to your keystrokes. This sharpness can enhance the overall typing experience, providing satisfying acoustic feedback that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch emits a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This results in a less pronounced acoustic experience that can be more subdued, making it suitable for quieter environments where noise might be a concern. The choice between these two switches in terms of sound may ultimately depend on personal preference for either a more pronounced or a subdued auditory profile.
In terms of feel, the EVA switch excels with its feathery touch, requiring minimal exertion to press, which significantly reduces finger fatigue during extended use. This light actuation force combined with a silky smoothness creates a comfortable experience that is particularly beneficial for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the bouncy quality of the EVA provides a delightful rebound sensation, enhancing the tactile feedback. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, which brings a degree of friction that might appeal to users seeking a more tactile experience. While the Speed Silver's actuation is quick due to its low spring resistance, the texture can be less comfortable for those who prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience.
Collectively, while both the HMX EVA and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches fall into the linear category, they cater to different user preferences. The EVA's clacky sound and feathery, silky, and bouncy feel lend an energetic and comfortable typing experience ideal for long sessions. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's low-pitched sound and textured sensation appeal to users who prioritize rapid response and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile response, ensuring users can find a switch that aligns with their specific needs and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch will largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience for extended sessions, the EVA is an excellent option. With its feathery feel, silky action, and clacky sound, it’s perfect for both casual typing and gaming, providing a sensation that minimizes fatigue and enhances enjoyment over longer periods. The aesthetic appeal, inspired by Evangelion, adds an extra layer of character to your keyboard. Conversely, if you're a competitive gamer who requires rapid response and quick actuation, the MX Speed Silver is tailor-made for you. Its design focuses on maximizing speed and reducing spring resistance, making it ideal for situations where every millisecond counts. The lower-pitched, textured feedback offers a different tactile experience that might appeal to gamers who appreciate a more solid feedback when pressing keys. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a smooth, comfortable typing experience (HMX EVA) or prioritizing speed and rapid response in high-stakes gaming scenarios (Cherry MX Speed Silver).
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