HMX EVA vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Cold Plum stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering a unique typing experience that caters to different user preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its feathery and silky feel, accompanied by a resonant sound signature that adds a touch of excitement to every keystroke. This makes the EVA an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience with a hint of character while enjoying a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum boasts a thocky sound profile, thanks to its fully nylon construction, promising a deep and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts who seek a distinctive auditory experience along with smooth keystrokes. While both switches offer a linear feel, they cater to different sensibilities—one leaning towards a vibrant, engaging sound and tactile feedback, while the other focuses on deep thockiness and unique aesthetics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EVA and Outemu Cold Plum switches share a significant similarity in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for the top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, which contributes to the characteristic sound profile of switches made from it. In both switches, the softness of the nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, yielding a deeper and fuller acoustic experience when typing. This shared characteristic ensures that both the HMX EVA and the Outemu Cold Plum will produce a similarly pleasing auditory feedback, offering a duller and rounder sound as users engage with their keyboards.

Moreover, because both the EVA and Cold Plum feature nylon housings for both the top and bottom, the overall typing experience will retain consistency. With the nylon top housing influencing the sound and feel during key release and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and tactile sensation, both switches will provide a cohesive typing experience characterized by the same depth of tone. This harmonious combination reinforces how effective nylon can be in achieving desired auditory results in mechanical switches, regardless of the specific brand.

Lastly, while it is essential to recognize that both switches are made from the same material, experiences can still vary slightly depending on other factors like switch design and manufacturing. If there were differences in housings, the interplay between the top and bottom materials could lead to a more nuanced sound and feel. However, given the identical use of nylon in both the HMX EVA and Outemu Cold Plum switches, users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of audio quality and tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying and uniform experience across both options.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions as it minimizes fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer a firmer feel when pressing keys. Thus, the EVA is the lighter option suitable for prolonged use, while the Cold Plum caters to users seeking a stronger tactile response with its medium-heavy specifications. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces make these switches cater to distinct user preferences, with one prioritizing comfort and the other, a more pronounced clicking experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we find that the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cold Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the EVA the longer of the two switches. For gamers and those seeking quicker response times, the Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may offer an advantage for rapid key presses. However, some users might prefer the more substantial feel provided by the EVA, as its longer travel distance delivers a sense of depth that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus a more pronounced keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX EVA and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, the EVA produces a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. This resonant sound signature contributes to an engaging auditory experience, making each keystroke feel more pronounced. In contrast, while the Outemu Cold Plum switch is not specifically described in terms of its sound characteristics, it is renowned for its thocky sound profile. The thocky quality typically provides a deeper, fuller sound, lending a distinct feel to the typing experience. The overall auditory experience will inevitably vary based on additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, but users can expect the EVA to offer a more pronounced clack compared to the typically deeper thock from the Cold Plum.

Regarding the feel of these switches, the HMX EVA is celebrated for its feathery lightness, making it wonderfully easy to press, which is particularly beneficial for long typing sessions. Coupled with its silky smoothness, the actuation feels seamless, providing minimal resistance and a bounce effect that adds a delightful tactile feedback. Conversely, the Outemu Cold Plum does not have specific descriptors for its feel, but it is generally associated with a smooth keystroke and enjoyable typing experience. While the exact tactile feedback may remain unspecified, the EVA's combination of lightness and smoothness sets a high bar for ease of use, while the Cold Plum likely offers a more standard, yet satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches present unique qualities catering to different typers’ preferences. The EVA stands out with its clacky sound, feathery lightness, and silky smoothness, while the Cold Plum is characterized by its distinct thocky sound profile and generally satisfying feel. Choosing between the two will depend largely on individual preferences for sound bite and tactile feedback, but both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their unique ways. For those who prioritize sound and a lighter touch, the EVA is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, users looking for a solid, satisfying keystroke might find comfort in the Cold Plum, potentially experiencing a more traditional keyboard feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the HMX EVA and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a lighter touch and smoother keystroke experience, especially during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the HMX EVA is the ideal choice with its 48-gram bottom-out force. You’ll appreciate its clacky sound and feathery, silky feel, which reduces finger fatigue, making it more comfortable for extended use. Conversely, if you prefer a more robust typing experience and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance with a 70-gram bottom-out force, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are likely to suit you better. Their thocky sound profile and satisfying keystroke make them appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a distinct auditory and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, your decision should weigh each switch's unique qualities against how you like to type and what feels most comfortable for your hands.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more