HMX EVA vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Green offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX EVA, a linear switch, is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and resonant sound signature, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience without the tactile feedback of a click. Its design, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, adds a unique aesthetic appeal, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking both functionality and style. In contrast, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch, characterized by its tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke. This feedback can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying auditory element, which many users find energizing, especially in typing-intensive tasks. While the EVA might suit those looking for a quieter, fluid experience, the Green is perfect for users who enjoy clear auditory cues as they type. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The HMX EVA and Outemu Green switches represent two distinct approaches to mechanical keyboard design, particularly in their choice of housing materials. The EVA employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This is beneficial for users who prefer a quieter typing environment or a sound signature that emphasizes a smoother feel and a muted auditory footprint. In contrast, the Outemu Green switches feature polycarbonate for the top housing, which drastically alters the sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound. This distinction is particularly useful for those who prioritize clarity and a more assertive auditory response while typing.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which maintains a consistent acoustic profile for the bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback. Given that both switches share this nylon material for their bottom housings, users can expect similar deeper and fuller audio characteristics when bottoming out. This consistency provides a reassuring familiarity for users who appreciate the plush feeling of nylon during heavy typing sessions or gaming. As a result, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing serve to complement the auditory experience of the EVA and Outemu Green switches, ensuring that while they differ significantly in their top housing materials, the tactile feedback and acoustics from beneath remain aligned.
The combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Outemu Green creates a unique interplay of sound and feel, contrasting sharply with the cohesive aesthetic and auditory experience of the HMX EVA. While the EVA provides a full-bodied sound throughout both the downstroke and release due to its uniform housing materials, the Outemu Green takes advantage of the strengths of each material to enhance the typing experience. The softer nylon provides that cushioned base for the tactile feedback while the polycarbonate top elevates the sound to a sharper note. This blend allows users to enjoy the distinct characteristics of each material, crafting a personalized typing experience that can cater to diverse preferences. Ultimately, while both switches can yield comparable experiences in certain aspects, they differ fundamentally in terms of auditory profiles, enabling users to choose based on their desired typing sensation and sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The EVA switch exhibits a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially during long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feedback when typing. This distinction between the two switches underlines the user preference spectrum, where lighter switches facilitate prolonged use while heavier ones offer a more pronounced typing experience. Thus, for individuals choosing between the two, the EVA is the lighter option, while the Outemu Green is the heavier choice, catering to different user needs and preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch differ in their travel distances, with the EVA measuring 3.6 mm and the Green at 4 mm. This makes the HMX EVA the shorter of the two, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Green, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper press that some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, your preference will dictate which switch you choose; if you lean towards responsiveness, the EVA is the way to go, whereas those who appreciate a more traditional and tactile experience might prefer the Green.
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 Green 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 contributes to a rich and immersive typing experience. This can enhance the auditory feedback while you type, providing a satisfying ambiance without being overly distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch, while lacking a distinct description, is typically characterized by its clicky and tactile feedback, which creates a distinct audible "click" at actuation. This sound can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback and provides a sharp contrast to the EVA's more subdued tonal quality.
When looking at the feel of these switches, the HMX EVA linear switch is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid movement across the keyboard with minimal resistance. This smoothness can make long typing sessions feel effortless and enjoyable. Conversely, the Outemu Green clicky switch is known for its tactile bump and the click mechanism, which provides a pronounced feedback at the point of actuation. This tactile sensation can make it easier for typists to identify when a key has been registered, appealing to those who prefer a more engaging and interactive typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the HMX EVA and the Outemu Green switches offer unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. The EVA provides a smooth and resonant typing experience, ideal for those who prefer linear feedback with minimal sound distraction. In contrast, the Green caters to users who enjoy a pronounced clicky actuation and tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, you may find yourself favoring one over the other. However, if you prefer versatility and are still exploring options, you can combine various key switches and keycaps to tailor the auditory and tactile experience to your liking.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter touch, smooth typing experience, and a more subdued sound profile, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice, especially for long typing sessions or gaming where quick key presses are essential. Its unique design inspired by Evangelion Unit-01 provides a visually appealing addition to your setup, and the silky smooth feel makes it comfortable for extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback while typing, the Outemu Green switch is likely the better option. With its heavier bottom-out force, it gives a satisfying click that can enhance your typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate clear auditory cues with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prefer the quiet, effortless strokes of the EVA or the pronounced, tactile feedback of the Green, allowing you to create a typing experience that aligns perfectly with your style.
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