HMX EVA vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the Haimu Orange Sea each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for typists and gamers alike. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience, along with a silky smooth typing feel that can enhance your overall keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are characterized by their impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, making them ideal for users seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance. While both switches fall into the linear category, their distinct characteristics can appeal to various user preferences—whether you prefer a more immersive sound experience with the EVA or the understated tranquility of the Orange Sea. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Haimu Orange Sea, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The EVA's top housing is crafted from nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. The nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and more rounded auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, favoring clarity and resonance, especially significant when utilizing RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual aesthetics of illuminated switches.

While the top housings differ significantly, the bottom housings of both switches share similarities in their construction and material. Both the EVA and the Orange Sea feature nylon as the material for their respective bottom housings, ensuring that these switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound during keystrokes. This consistency in the bottom material facilitates a similar typing experience, as the softer nylon helps to absorb sound effectively and creates a similar bottom-out feel. Users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile when engaged with these switches, thanks to the shared bottom housing material.

Overall, the different top housing materials create a unique tonal quality for each switch, affecting the overall auditory experience. In the EVA, the nylon top contributes to a muted and full sound, while the Orange Sea's polycarbonate top generates a bright and resonant profile. However, since both switches employ nylon in the bottom housing, the underlying sound characteristics remain aligned, and the resulting typing experience retains a familiar depth and fullness. Thus, while the top housings may yield distinct auditory outcomes, the nylon bottom ensures that switching between the two will not drastically alter the overall typing sensation.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, both demonstrate light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are notable differences in their specifications. The EVA requires an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Orange Sea is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter feel may find the Orange Sea more suitable for extended typing sessions due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, the EVA provides a marginally higher force which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches allow for relatively easy keystrokes, making them great options for long-term use, but if one is searching for the lighter option, the Haimu Orange Sea would be the preferable choice.

Travel distance

Both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience identical keypress distances when engaging either switch. This similarity ensures that the feel and responsiveness of the keys will be consistent across both switches, providing a uniform typing experience. Since both switches share this travel distance, users can expect comparable results in terms of keystroke feedback and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound signature, which likely provides a more pronounced acoustic experience during typing. This can be appealing for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback as they type. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is noted for its neutral sound signature, allowing for a more subdued auditory experience. This can provide a quieter typing environment, ideal for users who prefer minimal distractions while working or gaming. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard plate, housing material, and keycap profile.

When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA switch is recognized for its silky smooth typing experience, which may contribute to a luxurious and comfortable sensation with each keystroke. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is also characterized by an impeccably smooth typing feel, suggesting that users can expect a very seamless and responsive experience. Both switches excel in providing a smooth keystroke, making them ideal for typists who value comfort and speed.

In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches offer smooth typing experiences, catering to users who prioritize comfort and speed. The EVA is distinguished by its resonant sound signature, while the Orange Sea opts for a more neutral auditory profile. Depending on your preference for sound, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, but the feel is notably similar, ensuring a comfortable environment for prolonged use. Ultimately, your choice may come down to the desired auditory feedback and personal aesthetic preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you prefer a switch that not only offers a silky smooth typing experience but also features a resonant sound signature inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, then the HMX EVA might be the better choice for you. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 48 grams provides a tactile presence that can enhance your typing experience, making it a great option for those who enjoy purposeful keystrokes while gaming or typing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a switch that is impeccably smooth with a more neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea is likely the switch for you, particularly if you favor lighter action with its 45-gram bottom-out force. This can be especially beneficial for rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed is paramount. Ultimately, consider what aspects you value most: the distinctive sound and feel of the EVA or the straightforward smoothness and neutrality of the Orange Sea, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more