HMX EVA vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Crystal Brown present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EVA, a linear switch renowned for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, is an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless, uninterrupted keystroke experience, allowing for rapid key presses without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that offers a noticeable bump at the actuation point, making it ideal for those who appreciate the tactile response while typing, enhancing both accuracy and comfort during extended use. While the EVA showcases a unique aesthetic inspired by the beloved Evangelion Unit-01, the Crystal Brown appeals to users who favor the reliability of tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is evident that they differ significantly in their top housing compositions. The EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic structure. This material absorbs more sound and adds a certain roundness to the audio feedback when typing, thus enhancing the overall auditory experience. In contrast, the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a brighter and crisper sound. The hardness of polycarbonate allows for a clearer resonance, resulting in a higher-pitched audio output. This distinction in material leads to notable differences in the typing experience, particularly with the tonal quality of the sounds produced.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material creates a similarity in the auditory feedback when keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in impacting the tactile feel and sound of actuation, facilitating a deeper and fuller profile that both switches offer during key presses. Since nylon absorbs sound, both switches will feel cushioned in terms of sound feedback even though their top housings create differing auditory signatures. Thus, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sounds and tactile feel from both the EVA and the Crystal Brown when pressed down due to the consistent use of nylon.
In summary, when considering the overall acoustic and tactile experience delivered by the HMX EVA and Outemu Crystal Brown, one must take into account the contrasting top housing materials. The EVA's nylon top houses a sound profile that leans toward depth and warmth, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate housing offers brightness and clarity. However, the shared nylon bottom housing means that the impact of the bottom-out sound will mirror the fuller sound characteristics present in the EVA switch. Consequently, while the switches may have varying auditory profiles when typing, their bottom housing allows them to still provide a level of consistency in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Crystal Brown switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feel under their fingers while typing. This means that the EVA switch is the lighter option overall, while the Crystal Brown is heavier, catering to different typing preferences and comfort levels. Both switches provide distinct tactile responses, but the differences in force metrics will significantly influence user experience, especially during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Crystal Brown features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EVA provides a slightly shorter travel, making it potentially more responsive for those who favor quicker actuation, such as gamers. In contrast, the Crystal Brown's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feeling when pressing down on a key, providing a sense of depth and tactile feedback. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the HMX EVA is the better choice, while the Outemu Crystal Brown caters to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke 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 Crystal Brown 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 that adds a distinct auditory character to your typing experience, elevating it beyond mere function. This sound profile can create a more engaging atmosphere while typing, making each stroke more satisfying. The Outemu Crystal Brown, on the other hand, does not have a noted sound signature, suggesting it may lean towards a more standard sound profile that doesn't stand out markedly. It's important to bear in mind that the overall sound produced can also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap choices, meaning both switches could potentially achieve a similar auditory experience when paired with the right components.
When it comes to feel, the EVA is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that can enhance speed and comfort during extended use. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown's specific feel qualities are not detailed, which leaves its tactile characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, known characteristics of brown switches typically highlight a subtle tactile bump without the audible click, which can provide a satisfying feedback loop for typists. While the EVA clearly targets a silky linear feel, the overall experience with the Crystal Brown may still offer a pleasant typing sensation, albeit less defined compared to the EVA's explicit smoothness.
In conclusion, the HMX EVA linear switch presents a clear advantage with its resonant sound and silky smooth feel, creating a potentially more engaging typing experience. The Outemu Crystal Brown offers an unknown sound and possibly a more traditional tactile response, which could still suit a variety of typists. If you're seeking a unique auditory experience together with an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the EVA stands out. However, if you prefer a potentially classic tactile experience without the pronounced sound characteristics, the Crystal Brown may suffice. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, and the choice may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch will ultimately depend on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a lighter, smoother keystroke with a unique sound signature and visually appealing aesthetics inspired by Evangelion, the HMX EVA's 48-gram bottom-out force can provide an exceptional typing experience, especially for fast-paced gaming or seamless typing. It is ideal if you prefer a noiseless environment where the sound of each keypress is not a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a more defined tactile feedback that enhances your typing accuracy without being too heavy, the Outemu Crystal Brown, with its medium-light 55-gram force, might be more suited for you. This switch would cater well to typists who like to feel a subtle bump at the actuation point, making it a good choice for both writing and gaming. Therefore, gauge your priorities in terms of feedback, sound, and overall feel to determine the best switch that fits your typing style.
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