HMX EVA vs. Outemu Silent Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific use cases, and two popular options in the linear switch category are the HMX EVA and the Outemu Silent Yellow. The HMX EVA is not just a switch; it’s a celebration of design, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01. It boasts a resonant sound signature that enhances the typing experience while providing a silky smooth feel, making it a great pick for users who appreciate both aesthetics and tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow prioritizes noise reduction without sacrificing the smoothness that linear switches are known for, making it an ideal choice for those working in shared spaces or who simply prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles and environments; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Outemu Silent Yellow 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 the Outemu Silent Yellow switches, a notable distinction arises in the choice of material for the top housing. The EVA utilizes nylon, which is known for its softer characteristics. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, as the nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for greater resonance, resulting in a clearer auditory feedback during usage. This difference in materials directly influences the overall sound experience a typist may have when using each of these switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the EVA and Silent Yellow switches utilize nylon. This shared choice of material means that both switches will produce similar qualities in terms of sound and feel at the bottom-out point. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, allowing users to experience a more muted and rounded auditory feedback. It is significant to note that while the top and bottom housings differ in the EVA and Silent Yellow, the commonality in the bottom housing means that when bottoming out the switch, both will deliver comparable experiences in terms of sound quality.

In summary, while both switches utilize fundamentally different materials in their respective top housings, the similarity in their bottom housings ensures that certain sound characteristics remain consistent across both. Users of either switch can expect to experience a pronounced impact from the nylon bottom housing when bottoming out, leading to a harmonious and full auditory experience. However, as one releases a key, the distinctions in sound characteristics highlighted by the top housing materials will come into play, offering unique auditory profiles that reflect the specific choices made in their construction.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more pronounced bottom out force of 60 grams, aligning with users who appreciate a firmer feel during their key presses. Thus, the EVA is overall the lighter option, while the Silent Yellow is the heavier choice. These variations in force mean that users seeking a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use would benefit from the HMX EVA, whereas those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HMX EVA linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the EVA switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. As shorter travel distances often cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, the EVA switch may be more appealing for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness. Conversely, the Silent Yellow, with its longer travel distance, may provide users with a more substantial and recognizable keypress, which can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the distinction between these two switches lies in their travel distances—3.6 mm for the EVA and 4.0 mm for the Silent Yellow—offering users options based on their preferences for response time or keypress depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound signature that can add a unique auditory dimension to each keystroke. This quality brings a sense of liveliness to typing and gaming experiences, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. Conversely, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have a specific sound signature noted, which suggests it may not contribute much in terms of audio feedback during use. However, it is essential to remember that the sound produced by any switch can also significantly depend on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps used.

Regarding feel, the HMX EVA is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that enhance comfort during prolonged use. The smoothness contributes to a seamless flow whether typing or gaming, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts seeking precision. The Outemu Silent Yellow, while lacking detailed descriptions of its feel, is generally known to offer a smooth linear experience as well, which means that both switches can deliver satisfactory typing sensations for users who prefer a linear switch profile.

In summary, while the HMX EVA linear switch stands out with its resonant sound signature and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow may offer a more muted auditory experience coupled with a similarly smooth feel. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide enjoyable linear performance, making them suitable for users who appreciate the linear switch characteristic, though the unique sound signature of the EVA can certainly add an extra layer of enjoyment for some. Depending on personal preferences, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch choice, allowing for exploration of different styles and sounds while remaining within the linear switch category.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a lighter switch that requires less force and offers a smoother typing experience, the HMX EVA, with its 48-gram bottom-out force, may be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy a resonant sound signature that adds a unique character to your keystrokes. This switch is also aesthetically pleasing, drawing inspiration from the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that provides a bit more resistance while maintaining a linear feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow with its 60-gram bottom-out force could be more suitable. It’s a solid choice for those who want to minimize typing noise—great for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you lean towards a softer touch with a distinctive sound (EVA) or a firmer response that prioritizes quietness (Silent Yellow).

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more