HMX EVA vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Black are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and auditory feedback in their typing experience. On the other hand, while the Outemu Black lacks a distinctive branding narrative, it offers a solid and reliable linear feel that is favored by gamers and typists alike for its consistent keypress response and minimal resistance. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, yet they cater to different user sentiments—whether you lean towards a design-oriented choice that also provides a unique sound or a straightforward, dependable alternative. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX EVA and the Outemu Black switches, one can observe notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly affect the sound profiles produced during typing. The HMX EVA features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, delivering a muted and rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is inherently stiffer and capable of generating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate not only contributes to a resonant sound but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting, catering to users who are conscious of both auditory and visual experiences when customizing their keyboards.
In contrast to the top housing differentiation, both the HMX EVA and the Outemu Black share the same nylon material for their bottom housings. This commonality results in a consistent deeper sound profile regardless of the differences at the top. As nylon's sound-absorbing qualities come into play from the bottom housing, it produces a duller and rounder sound when the switch bottoms out. This shared material in the bottom housing reinforces the characteristics of both switches, as any typing experience on either switch will feel similar when it comes to the tactile feedback of the bottoming out action. Thus, while the top housings create divergent auditory experiences, the nylon bottom housings unify the overall sound profile when keys are pressed down fully.
The combined effects of the different top and bottom housing materials create a distinct typing experience with each switch. For the HMX EVA, the softer nylon top works harmoniously with the nylon bottom to produce a consistent sound profile that feels warm and plush. In contrast, the Outemu Black benefits from the polycarbonate top housing, which adds a level of crispness and clarity to key release sounds, while the nylon bottom still offers a rich layer beneath. Users who prefer a more muted and subdued typing experience might gravitate toward the EVA, while those seeking an articulate and resonant sound would likely favor the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the unique characteristics of housing materials allow typists to customize their auditory and tactile preferences based on their needs and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their performance. The HMX EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that facilitates extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. This distinction means that while the EVA is ideal for long gaming sessions or day-to-day work, the Black may appeal to users seeking a firmer response and tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you favor a lighter touch, the HMX EVA will suit your needs, whereas the Outemu Black provides a more robust resistance for a stronger typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the EVA will feel more responsive due to its shorter distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quick key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Black, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper actuation that some users may find more satisfying and comfortable. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch that allows for faster response times, the HMX EVA is the better choice, while the Outemu Black caters to those who appreciate a fuller key press 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound signature, providing a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from typical linear switches. While the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific sound characteristics attributed to it, linear switches are generally known for their quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky variants. The overall sound profile of both switches may still be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material, but the EVA's resonant quality introduces an additional layer of richness that may appeal to users who appreciate a more engaging acoustic feedback during typing.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, suggesting a fluid keystroke that can enhance typing comfort and efficiency. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Black is not explicitly noted, but linear switches typically provide a smooth actuation without tactile bumps. If the Blacks perform as expected for a linear switch, they would offer a similar smoothness, although they may not provide the luxurious typing sensation that the EVA is known for.
In summary, while the HMX EVA linear switch stands out with its resonant sound and luxurious silky feel, the Outemu Black remains a more generic linear option with less defined characteristics in sound and feel. Users seeking a more engaging auditory experience may lean towards the EVA, while those who prioritize a smooth actuation can still achieve satisfactory performance with the Blacks. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a similar typing experience in terms of smoothness, but the EVA enhances this with its distinctive sound and touch sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom-out force of only 48 grams, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice. Its silky smooth feel combined with its resonant sound signature caters well to those who enjoy a more responsive and less fatiguing typing experience, especially during long sessions of writing or gaming. Furthermore, if you appreciate aesthetics inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, the EVA's unique design adds a personal touch to your setup. On the other hand, if you are someone who favors a heavier tactile experience with more resistance while typing, the Outemu Black, with its substantial bottom-out force of 82 grams, would likely suit you better. This switch could provide a more deliberate type feel, which some users find preferable for both gaming and typing, as it might improve accuracy by reducing accidental key presses. Therefore, consider what you value more in your typing experience and choose accordingly to enhance your overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard.
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