HMX EVA vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role in the choice between different types, such as the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Blue. The HMX EVA, a linear switch inspired by the captivating colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and a resonant sound signature, making it an excellent option for those who value a quieter and more fluid typing experience, ideal for extended use or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue, with its clicky feedback, offers a tactile experience that many typists appreciate, providing both auditory and physical confirmation with each keystroke, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. While both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile and auditory feedback—it's essential to consider your personal typing style and intended use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 Milk Blue, a distinct difference emerges in their top housings. The EVA features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Milk Blue employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant tone, making it particularly suited for those seeking clarity in their keystrokes. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially for setups incorporating RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through beautifully.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches align in their use of nylon, providing similar acoustic properties. The EVA and Milk Blue both boast a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, maintaining a soft feel as well. This shared characteristic ensures that the bottoming-out experience remains uniform across both switches, emphasizing the dull and rounded tones that nylon inherently delivers. Thus, while the top housing contributes to distinct sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing serves to harmonize the overall auditory sensation shared by these switches.
In conclusion, the differences in top housing materials between the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Blue ultimately influence their individual sound profiles, while the nylon bottom housing creates a common foundation for sound and feel. Users prioritizing a deeper and warmer sound may gravitate towards the EVA, while those seeking a crisper sound experience may favor the Milk Blue due to its polycarbonate top. Nonetheless, both switches will produce a satisfying auditory experience, especially when pressed down, as they share the reliable acoustic qualities of nylon in their bottom housing. This blend of contrasting top materials with a uniform bottom component illustrates how unique sound experiences can coexist within similar frameworks.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we can see distinct differences in actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Outemu Milk Blue remains unknown. The EVA switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a stronger push feel, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. However, without the bottom out force information for the Milk Blue switch, we cannot draw direct comparisons there. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the HMX EVA would be preferable, whereas those who favor a firmer resistance may lean towards the Outemu Milk Blue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, a notable difference emerges. The HMX EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Outemu Milk Blue features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Milk Blue switch provides a more traditional feel with greater depth, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience, while the EVA's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times. Consequently, if you're looking for more responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the HMX EVA would be the better choice, while the Outemu Milk Blue is ideal for users who enjoy a deeper keystroke.
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 Milk Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EVA linear switch offers a resonant sound signature that adds a rich, pleasant auditory experience while typing. This could enhance the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard, especially for those who appreciate a certain acoustic profile as they type. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, known for its sharp and distinct click, delivers an unmistakable auditory feedback with every keystroke. This clickiness can provide a satisfying response for users who enjoy the confirmation of their actions, making it easier to type with confidence. It’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard design, keycap material, and other factors, which means personal experiences may vary.
When discussing feel, the HMX EVA is characterized by its silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless and fluid keystroke without any tactile interruption. This makes it a strong choice for long typing sessions, as the lack of resistance can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Blue provides a tactile bump that gives a pronounced feedback point with each key press, making it easier to feel when a key has registered. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and speed for those who are accustomed to a more interactive keystroke. Each type of switch serves a different preference, appealing to various typing styles and user needs.
In summary, the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch cater to distinct preferences in both sound and feel. The EVA's resonant sound signature and smooth typing experience offer a quiet and fluid option, while the Milk Blue's sharp click and tactile feedback create a more interactive typing atmosphere. Both switches can lead to satisfying and enjoyable keyboard usage, but your choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer a linear and smooth experience or a clicky and tactile one. As you explore your mechanical keyboard journey, understanding these differences will help you find a switch that aligns perfectly with your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the intended use of your mechanical keyboard. If you tend to favor a smoother typing experience with a light actuation force, the EVA is an excellent option, particularly if you appreciate a silky feel and the unique resonant sound signature that adds character to your keystrokes. This makes it well-suited for long typing sessions or a quiet work environment where you want to minimize noise while still enjoying a tactile experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, the Milk Blue clicky switch may be better for you. Its characteristic click sound can be satisfying and motivating, especially for typists who are accustomed to the tactile bumps and audible cues. This switch is ideal for gaming or tasks where you want clear confirmation with each keystroke. Thus, consider your personal typing style, the acoustic environment you'll be in, and the types of activities you plan to engage in when selecting between the HMX EVA and Outemu Milk Blue switches.
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