HMX EVA vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can often boil down to distinct tactile experiences and sound profiles, as is the case with the HMX EVA and the Outemu Cream Yellow. The HMX EVA, a linear switch renowned for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, offers an uninterrupted keystroke experience—a great choice for those who prioritize swift, fluid motion and minimal tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that delivers a satisfying bump at the actuation point, providing users with clearer feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and reduce mistypes; it appeals especially to those who enjoy a bit of resistance when pressing their keys. While both switches cater to different typing preferences, they each present unique features that could enhance your typing or gaming experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The HMX EVA and Outemu Cream Yellow switches share a commonality in their housing materials, as both feature nylon compositions for both the top and bottom housing. This consistency in material choice contributes to the overall sound profile of both switches. Specifically, the nylon construction results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, largely due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a relatively softer material, nylon promotes a duller and rounder acoustic quality that can enhance the tactile experience for users. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for those who prefer a muted auditory feedback while typing, making both switches appealing options for a quieter keyboard.
Despite the shared nylon material, the impact of each housing type should not be overlooked. While both the HMX EVA and Outemu Cream Yellow switches utilize nylon throughout, the interaction between the top and bottom housings shapes the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, whereas the top housing is more influential during the release phase. This distinction is pivotal for users who prioritize different aspects of the typing experience; whether one values the sound upon key activation or the auditory feedback upon releasing a key can influence their preference between these two switches. However, since both utilize the same nylon material, the resulting sound profiles will ultimately reflect a similar character.
Ultimately, users will find that the nylon housings of both the HMX EVA and Outemu Cream Yellow switches provide comparable auditory experiences, highlighting the effect of material choice on switch performance. While the nuances of sound and feel may differ based on the specific design and interaction of the housings, they share enough common ground to elicit similar results in terms of overall acoustic output. For enthusiasts seeking the classic benefits of nylon switch housings, either option is poised to deliver a satisfying typing experience enriched by the unique acoustic properties of this traditional material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, we find differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varied user preferences. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort to activate and bottom out. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This indicates that the Cream Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a firmer push. Ultimately, those who favor lighter switches for endurance should gravitate towards the EVA, while those who enjoy a stronger tactile response would benefit from the Cream Yellow’s heavier force characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it's clear that there's a distinction between the two. The EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow measures slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This difference in travel distance may impact the user experience: those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers, might lean towards the shorter Cream Yellow switch for its quicker actuation. Conversely, the EVA's longer travel distance could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel and deeper actuation, offering a more tactile experience with each keypress. Ultimately, if you seek responsiveness, the Outemu Cream Yellow is the better choice, whereas the HMX EVA will provide a more traditional feel for those who appreciate depth in their typing.
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 Cream Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch is known for its resonant sound signature, which adds a unique auditory character to the typing experience, likely enhancing engagement during use. While the specific sound characteristics of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch are not detailed, it can be expected that its tactile design offers a different auditory response, often producing a subtle sound upon actuation. This difference in sound may affect how users perceive their typing experience, and it's important to remember that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel, allowing for seamless keystrokes that can enhance typing speed and comfort during extended use. The Cream Yellow, being a tactile switch, likely provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can offer satisfying feedback and help typists recognize when a key has been engaged. This tactile sensation can lead to a different form of satisfaction compared to the smoothness of the EVA, catering to preferences for different typing styles.
In conclusion, the HMX EVA linear switch stands out with its resonant sound and smooth feel, while the Outemu Cream Yellow, with its tactile feedback, offers a contrasting experience that might appeal to those seeking additional typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel. If you're looking for a more fluid typing experience, the EVA is an excellent option, while the Cream Yellow may provide the tactile response some typists desire, making both switches capable of delivering satisfying results tailored to user needs.
Conclusion
To summarize, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, unhindered keystroke with a unique sound signature that resonates, the HMX EVA is the way to go. This switch is particularly suited for those who spend long hours typing or gaming, as the 48-gram force diminishes finger fatigue, allowing for a more enjoyable experience. Additionally, if aesthetic appeal is also a consideration for you—perhaps as a fan of the Evangelion series—the EVA’s iconic color inspiration might draw you in even more. Conversely, if you lean towards a heavier, tactile feedback experience when you type, the Outemu Cream Yellow is an excellent choice with its 60-gram bottom-out force, providing a more pronounced bump that can enhance your typing accuracy and satisfaction. Additionally, the tactile nature can be particularly beneficial for programming or writing tasks, where you may want more feedback from each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and weight or tactile feedback and resistance in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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