HMX EVA vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EVA is a linear switch celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy uninterrupted keystrokes and a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a tactile switch that provides satisfying feedback with every press, perfect for typists who appreciate the tactile bump to signal actuation and may prefer a more engaged typing experience. While the EVA is exemplified by its inspired design and smoothness, the Dustproof Purple emphasizes tactile responsiveness, each catering to unique user preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, a notable distinction arises from the materials used in their top housings. The HMX EVA features a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple utilizes polycarbonate. These materials fundamentally influence the acoustic properties of the switches. The nylon used in the EVA's housing creates a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound and produces a duller tone. In contrast, the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Purple's housing results in a sharper, crisper sound profile since it is a stiffer material that amplifies resonance. This means that while both switches may provide distinct auditory experiences, the EVA will lean towards a muted acoustic impression, whereas the Dustproof Purple will favor a more vibrant sound when keys are released.
On the bottom housing front, both the HMX EVA and Outemu Dustproof Purple utilize nylon, creating an interesting overlap in their characteristics. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile during key presses, highlighting the similarity in their design when one considers the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound. This commonality allows for a consistent experience in feel, ensuring that while the top housings diverge in their sound attributes, the bottom housings unify the auditory experience during actuation. Thus, regardless of the tonal differences presented by the top housings, both switches will provide a similar depth of sound when a key is pressed, underscoring the role of the bottom housing in delivering a cohesive typing feel.
Understanding how the unique combinations of housing materials affect the resulting sound profile reveals the crafted intention behind both switches. The distinct top housing materials contribute to varied auditory experiences when a key is released, with the EVA offering a softer, rounder timbre and the Dustproof Purple a sharper, more resonant tone. Yet, because both switches rely on nylon for their bottom housings, typists will experience a level of continuity in sound when the keys are actuated. This interplay between the materials elevates the performance of each switch, ensuring that while they can cater to different auditory preferences, they share a common ground in tactile feedback. Ultimately, this comparison illustrates how switch design can intricately balance varied materials to yield unique yet harmonized user experiences.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence typing experiences. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a comfortable typing experience over extended periods, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial feel and feedback during key presses. This variance means that users of the Dustproof Purple might experience greater resistance, which can be satisfying for those who enjoy tactile feedback. Ultimately, while the EVA switch provides a light touch suitable for prolonged use, the Dustproof Purple offers a firmer experience, making them suited for different types of users based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, we find a notable difference: the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Purple measures 4 mm. This makes the EVA the shorter option, catering to those who appreciate a more responsive feel typical of gaming switches. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple, with its longer 4 mm travel, offers a more pronounced depth that may appeal to users who prefer a softer, more tactile experience. Consequently, if you favor quick key presses for rapid responses, the EVA would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a firmer feedback might lean towards the Dustproof Purple.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 characterized by a resonant sound signature, offering a tone that enhances the typing experience, giving it a unique auditory appeal. The Outemu Dustproof Purple switch, on the other hand, does not have specific sound qualities attributed to it, which makes it difficult to compare; however, the nature of its tactile design could contribute to a more muted sound when compared to linear switches. It's important to remember that the overall sound produced by each switch is also heavily influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so results may vary widely in practice.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses that are particularly satisfying for those who favor linear switches. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have an extensive description of its tactile feel, leaving an unclear image of how it compares in practice; however, being a tactile switch, it is likely to provide a noticeable bump during actuation, catering to users who prefer a more tactile feedback.
Considering the available information, the HMX EVA linear switch stands out with its resonant audio and silky smooth feel, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate both sound and touch in their typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch lacks detailed descriptions regarding both sound and feel, resulting in less clarity regarding its user experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that encapsulates both exceptional auditory and tactile experiences, the EVA may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a uniquely resonant sound profile, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch, whether you’re a gamer looking for quick key presses or a typist seeking comfort during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feel with a bit more resistance, the Outemu Dustproof Purple might be the better option; its medium-heavy 65-gram force gives you a satisfying feedback during each keystroke, making it excellent for typing when you need a bit more assurance that a key has been actuated. Therefore, when considering the auditory experience and typing feel, think carefully about whether the smoothness of the EVA or the tactile response of the Dustproof Purple aligns better with your preferences.
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