HMX EVA vs. Outemu Milk Tea

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Tea offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EVA is known for its linear characteristics, providing a silky smooth typing feel paired with a resonant sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy swift key presses without tactile feedback. Its design is inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, appealing to fans of the series. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch, delivering a satisfying bump at the actuation point that helps typists feel when a key has been registered—ideal for those who prefer a more engaged and deliberate typing experience. While the EVA is perfect for speedy typists seeking a smooth ride and an aesthetically pleasing look, the Milk Tea will attract users who value feedback and precise control during their typing sessions. 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

HMX EVA Linear

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Tea switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. This results in a nuanced acoustic experience, where the nylon absorbs sound, leading to a duller and more rounded auditory output. In contrast, the Milk Tea's top housing is constructed from a material known as Ly, which is newer and is noted for delivering a much brighter sound signature. The resonant clacks produced by the Ly top housing juxtapose sharply with the EVA's muted tones, showcasing how the choice of material can significantly influence the sound characteristics of these switches.

While the top housings of the two switches are distinct, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. In this regard, they align closely in terms of sound profile; both utilize the classic nylon to elicit that deeper, fuller sound when typing. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the tactile feedback and bottom-out sounds of the switches, which remain consistent between the HMX EVA and the Outemu Milk Tea. This means that while the top housings diverge significantly, the shared bottom housing material ensures that the overall typing experience retains some of the qualities characteristic of nylon—specifically, the softer absorption of sound and a more rounded acoustic output when the keys are pressed down fully.

In summary, the HMX EVA and Outemu Milk Tea switches illustrate the impact of housing materials on typing sound and feel. The top housing of the EVA creates a muted, deeper sound profile, while the Milk Tea's brighter sound due to its Ly material enhances the auditory experience with resonant clacking tones. However, both switches converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, which stabilizes the overall sound quality and feel, providing a compromise that allows users to appreciate the nuanced characteristics of each switch while still experiencing the familiar tactile sensation provided by the nylon material. This duality in materials emphasizes the importance of localized sound dynamics in keyboard switch design, where both the top and bottom housings collaboratively define the user experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, we observe some differences that may influence user preference. The EVA switch requires an actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 48 grams, defining it as a lighter option ideal for extended typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Tea switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. This means users may have to draw their own conclusions regarding the feel of bottoming out with this switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EVA switch stands out, while the Outemu Milk Tea is geared towards users who appreciate a firmer actuation, albeit with less clarity on its bottom out specifications. Ultimately, individuals seeking a heavier switch feel may lean toward the Milk Tea, while those favoring lighter options can confidently choose the EVA.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm positions the Milk Tea switch as the one that offers a more traditional depth, aligning with the preferences of users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. Conversely, the EVA's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers seeking quicker response times and enhanced efficiency during rapid key presses. Overall, while both switches are designed for different user experiences, the EVA's 3.6 mm travel distance will provide a more responsive feel, whereas the 4 mm travel distance of the Milk Tea switch may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound signature that is pleasing and harmonious, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience. This sound is notably smooth and consistent, reflecting the precision engineering that went into its design. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is not specifically known for its sound characteristics, but it is essential to note that the sound produced by any switch can vary significantly depending on the type of keyboard it is used with, as well as the choice of keycaps. Thus, while the EVA offers a distinctive auditory profile, the Milk Tea's sound qualities remain largely undefined.

When it comes to feel, the EVA switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, lacking any tactile bump typical of other switch types, which allows for seamless keystrokes. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid typing motion. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch provides a tactile feedback experience, meaning users will feel a noticeable bump when the key is activated. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience for those who appreciate the sensation of each keystroke.

In summary, the HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by its resonant sound signature and incredibly smooth feel, making it great for users who enjoy a fluid typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offers a different proposition with its tactile bump but has less defined auditory properties. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with a smooth feel or a tactile option that provides noticeable feedback.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a lighter touch with a smooth keystroke that provides a resonant sound signature, the EVA switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force ensures that even long typing sessions remain comfortable, making it ideal for both gaming and general use if you're seeking a quiet, linear experience. On the other hand, if you find satisfaction in tactile feedback while typing and enjoy the subtle bump that helps you feel each keystroke without being too noisy, you might lean towards the Outemu Milk Tea switch, which offers a unique tactile sensation—though further details on its specific characteristics would enhance this choice. Ultimately, consider what feels best for your typing style; whether you aim for smoothness and softness with the EVA or the tactile presence of the Milk Tea will guide your decision on which switch suits your needs best.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more