HMX EVA vs. Outemu Silent Ocean

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable options are the HMX EVA and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The HMX EVA, inspired by the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its unique resonant sound signature and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an ideal choice for those who value both aesthetics and performance in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean, while lacking a distinct thematic inspiration, focuses more on providing a quieter typing experience, making it perfect for users who work in shared spaces or prefer a more subdued sound profile. Each switch offers its own set of advantages, whether it’s the vibrant inspiration and tactile satisfaction of the HMX EVA or the serene typing experience of the Outemu Silent Ocean. 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 Silent Ocean Linear

$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 Outemu Silent Ocean switches, a key distinction arises in their top housings. The EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Silent Ocean opts for polycarbonate. The choice of nylon for the EVA creates a deeper and fuller sound profile because this softer plastic absorbs sound more efficiently than harder materials. This softness results in a muted, rounder auditory experience, making it appealing for users who prefer a subtler typing noise. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Ocean does the opposite; its stiffer nature produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction highlights the contrasting auditory experiences that both switches can provide, with the EVA emphasizing warmth and depth, while the Silent Ocean accentuates clarity and brightness.

In contrast, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes uniformly to the deeper sound character. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both the EVA and Silent Ocean results in a consistent tactile sensation upon bottoming out and a similar feel in typing. The nylon materials ensure that both switches deliver a rounded sound profile when pressed down, offering users a satisfying and cohesive experience regardless of which switch is utilized. Since both models employ nylon at the bottom, users seeking that distinct, deeper auditory feedback will find a level of uniformity between the two options despite the differences in the top housing.

The divergence in the top housing materials means that the overall typing experience will differ when utilizing the EVA versus the Silent Ocean. While both switches will produce a cohesive bottom-end sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the tonal character at the peak of each keystroke will be influenced heavily by the top materials. Enthusiasts who favor a soft, enveloping sound may gravitate toward the EVA, whereas those who prefer a sharper, more resonant typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, users can expect a similar "bottom-out" experience from both brands, but the releasing sound profiles will vary, accentuating the unique features brought forth by each switch's top housing material.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, along with a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a more delicate touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Silent Ocean switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, with a significantly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a more substantial and tactile typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer key press. Therefore, while the EVA switch is lighter and easier on the fingers, the Silent Ocean provides a stouter feel, catering to different user preferences for typing dynamics.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the EVA measuring 3.6 mm and the Silent Ocean measuring 4 mm. This makes the EVA the shorter of the two, offering a more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker input. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's 4 mm travel distance aligns with traditional specifications, providing a deeper keystroke that some users might find more satisfying and stable. While both switches can cater to different user preferences in terms of typing experience, the choice ultimately depends on whether one favors responsiveness with a shorter travel distance or a more substantial feel with a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound signature that adds a distinct auditory character when typing. This resonance can create a pleasing acoustic experience, particularly appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback in their typing. While the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch isn’t highlighted, linear switches are generally known for a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky switches. Thus, you can expect the Silent Ocean to provide a less pronounced sound profile, potentially making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern. However, the specific qualities of its sound remain unspecified.

When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA offers a silky smooth typing experience characterized by a consistent and frictionless movement throughout the keystroke. This smoothness is desirable for many typists, as it allows for rapid and comfortable typing without any interruptions. The Outemu Silent Ocean, while lacking detailed descriptions, being a linear switch suggests it would similarly provide a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps or significant resistance. Thus, both switches may offer comparable smoothness, leading to a fluid typing experience.

In conclusion, while the HMX EVA linear switch is renowned for its resonant sound and smooth feel that enhances the typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, though less defined in its attributes, is likely to provide a quieter and similarly smooth sensation. If you prefer a more pronounced auditory experience, the EVA would be the go-to choice, while if sound reduction is more important, the Silent Ocean could be appropriate. Overall, choosing between them may ultimately come down to your preference for sound and desired aesthetics, with both switches delivering a smooth feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, your personal preferences and typing environment will play pivotal roles in your choice. If you prefer a lighter switch that maximizes typing speed and offers a uniquely resonant sound signature with a silky smooth feel, the HMX EVA may be the better option for you. This switch is particularly ideal if you're an avid typist or gamer looking for comfort during extended sessions, especially in a quieter setting where that distinct sound can flourish. On the other hand, if you find yourself benefiting from a more substantial actuation force for a firmer typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean with its medium-heavy bottom-out force will suit you better. This switch is also an excellent choice if noise reduction is a priority for you, as it is designed to minimize sound, making it great for shared environments or late-night typing sessions. Ultimately, evaluate your typing style, sound preferences, and the acoustics of your workspace to make the most informed decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more