HMX EVA vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of the iconic Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and a resonant sound signature that enhances the overall experience, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a linear switch that optimizes comfort and speed during typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean features a tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, perfect for users who appreciate the tactile response when typing, ensuring a more engaging and deliberate interaction with their keyboard. While the EVA excels in smoothness and sound, the Ocean brings a tactile sensation that many find rewarding. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Outemu Ocean switches exhibit a compelling contrast, particularly in their choice of materials for the top housing. The EVA utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises because nylon can absorb more sound, leading to a sound experience that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which, being a stiffer plastic, elicits a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustic response. These differences in sound profiles mean that users may have distinct experiences when typing on these switches, with the EVA providing a more muted sound and the Ocean delivering a clearer resonance.

In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX EVA and the Outemu Ocean utilize nylon material. This shared choice leads to a similar sound experience in the lower portion of the switches. Nylon's softer characteristics again come into play here, producing a deeper, fuller sound profile that aligns closely with user expectations for a solid and pleasant tactile experience. The resemblance in their bottom housings can create uniformity in feel, resulting in a consistent bottom-out experience across both switches. This commonality in material ensures that regardless of the differences evident in the top housings, users will find a familiar sensation when pressing down on the switches.

When considering the combined effects of both housing materials on the overall sound profile, the unique characteristics of the EVA's nylon top and the Ocean's polycarbonate top become more pronounced. Since the top housing significantly influences the sound when releasing a key, the EVA's nylon will facilitate a warmer sound profile when the key is not engaged, while the Ocean's polycarbonate will provide a more vibrant sound upon release. Conversely, since both switches share nylon in the bottom housing, they will deliver a consistent and deeper sound when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, while the two switches differ in their top housing materials, they both promote a satisfying typing experience with a blend of distinct sound dynamics for the discerning user.

Weight

The HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA boasts a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, as it minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Ocean switch is not available, limiting our ability to draw a full comparison. Overall, the EVA switch is the lighter option with a smoother feel, while the Ocean switch is heavier, catering to those who enjoy a firmer push sensation.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the EVA switch the shorter of the two options, as it is designed for a more responsive feel, which can be appealing for gamers who prefer quick key presses. In contrast, the Ocean switch, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. This deeper travel can enhance typing comfort for those who favor a tactile feedback experience. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the HMX EVA linear switch would be the better choice, whereas the Outemu Ocean tactile switch would be preferable for those who enjoy a more pronounced travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound signature that adds a touch of personality to your typing experience, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remains without a definitive sound profile. This means the EVA provides a more unique auditory experience, which can be appealing to users who enjoy the acoustic character of their keyboard. The Ocean, on the other hand, might offer a more muted sound that could be either undetectable or less noticeable, especially when paired with the right board and keycaps, leading to a more subdued typing experience if that is what you prefer.

When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA is celebrated for its silky smooth typing sensation, providing a seamless experience with each keystroke. This can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. On the flip side, the Outemu Ocean's tactile switch may exhibit a different response that typically incorporates a satisfying tactile bump to signal actuation. While it could potentially introduce a pleasant feedback sensation, the exact nuances of this tactile feel are less defined and would depend on personal preference in how tactile feedback is perceived.

In conclusion, both switches cater to different tastes yet could suit a variety of typing styles. The EVA's resonant sound and silky smooth feel make it ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback and comfort, while the Ocean may appeal to someone who prefers a more subdued sound with tactile feedback. Ultimately, your experience will vary based on your keyboard setup, including the board and keycaps you choose, allowing for similar satisfaction in both cases despite their individual characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter switch that offers a smooth and responsive typing experience, the HMX EVA is an excellent option, especially if you appreciate a sound signature that resonates beautifully while you type. This makes it particularly suitable for gaming sessions or prolonged typing tasks where comfort and fluidity are paramount. On the other hand, if you are someone who enjoys tactile feedback with each keystroke, giving you a more pronounced feel as you type, then the Outemu Ocean would be the way to go. While the details on its sound and feel might be less defined, the tactile response can enhance your typing accuracy and engagement, making it ideal for tasks that require precision and control. Ultimately, consider trying out both switches if possible, as the right choice will significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience based on what you value more: the light, silky smoothness of the HMX EVA or the tactile feedback of the Outemu Ocean.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more