HMX EVA vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and Outemu Silent Grey present distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a linear switch that provides seamless keystrokes without tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey offers a highly tactile and quiet typing experience, featuring a pronounced bump that ensures satisfying feedback while minimizing noise—ideal for those in shared workspaces or who value discretion. While the EVA appeals to those who prioritize smoothness and aesthetics, the Silent Grey caters to users looking for a blend of tactile sensation and quiet operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Outemu Silent Grey switches, a notable distinction arises from the composition of their top housings. The EVA switch incorporates a nylon top housing, which enhances the overall typing experience by producing a richer and deeper sound profile. This characteristic is primarily due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves better than harder plastics, leading to a more muted auditory response. In contrast, the Silent Grey features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sound profile that is sharper and crisper. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a clearer sound, making the tonal quality more pronounced, particularly valuable in setups that utilize RGB lighting to enhance visual aesthetics.
On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. The nylon bottom housing in both the EVA and Silent Grey contributes to a fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall tactile experience during bottoming out. This shared material results in a consistent auditory foundation, where both switches provide a rounded sound when the key is fully pressed down. This similarity allows users to experience a sense of coherence in the sound signature between the two switches, even though the character of the top housing may produce distinct auditory outputs when keys are released.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Outemu Silent Grey switches differ significantly, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings unifies their performance in terms of sound when pressing down the keys. Consequently, while typing on both switches may yield different acoustic sensations on release due to the distinct properties of nylon and polycarbonate, the similar bottom housing means that the foundational feel and bottom-out sound maintain a level of consistency across both options. Therefore, users can expect a harmonious typing experience, even if the nuances differ in sound and resonance depending on the key press dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Grey switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more pronounced push feel during use. This heavier resistance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, but it might lead to fatigue during prolonged use. Consequently, the EVA is better suited for those who prioritize comfort and endurance in their keyboard, while the Silent Grey may attract users who enjoy a firmer keystroke feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's clear that the EVA offers a shorter distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Silent Grey has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive typing experience, the EVA may be the better choice, as shorter travel distances tend to facilitate quicker response times, a feature often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Grey, with its longer 4 mm travel, provides a more pronounced feel with a hearty depth that some users appreciate for a more satisfying typing experience. In summary, if you value a snappier response, go for the EVA, but if you prefer a deeper and more tactile feedback, the Silent Grey is your option.
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 Silent Grey 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
The HMX EVA linear switch produces a resonant sound signature that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This characteristic sound makes it ideal for users who appreciate an engaging acoustics profile while they type. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch emphasizes a quiet operation, ensuring that the clicks and clacks of keystrokes are subdued. This makes the Silent Grey a superb choice for those who desire a more discreet typing experience, particularly in shared or silent environments.
When it comes to feel, the EVA switch boasts a silky smooth typing sensation, which can make for a fluid and seamless typing experience, appealing to those who prefer linear switches. Conversely, the Silent Grey provides a highly tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, creating a satisfying tactile response upon actuation. This tactile quality is particularly satisfying for those who enjoy feeling the moment the key registers without the noise typically associated with tactile switches.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA and Outemu Silent Grey switches serve different auditory and tactile preferences, they each deliver unique benefits tailored to different typing experiences. The EVA's resonant sound and smooth feel invite an engaging typing dynamic, whereas the Silent Grey's quiet operation and tactile feedback cater to users seeking satisfaction without disruptive noise levels. Depending on your priorities—whether they lean towards sound or feel—both switches can provide a gratifying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, the EVA, with its 48-gram bottom-out force and resonant sound signature, will likely enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a visually striking design inspired by Evangelion Unit-01. Conversely, if you are seeking a more tactile feedback with a pronounced bump for each key press, as well as a quieter operation, the Outemu Silent Grey's heavier 65-gram bottom-out force and highly tactile profile will offer a satisfying experience without drawing too much attention in quieter settings. Therefore, consider your typing style—whether you crave smoothness or tactility—and your environment—whether you need something discreet versus something expressive, both of which these switches provide in their own unique ways.
Mentioned in this article
