HMX EVA vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and Huano Sakura stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering unique attributes that cater to different preferences and use cases. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing experience, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who value both aesthetics and performance. In contrast, the Huano Sakura provides a feather-light touch paired with medium acoustics, which makes it particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions and users who prioritize comfort and fatigue reduction. Both switches offer their distinct advantages—whether you lean towards the engaging sound profile of the EVA or the effortless keystrokes of the Sakura. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Huano Sakura, one striking difference lies in their top housing construction. The EVA utilizes nylon, a classic material recognized for its capacity to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer character. This property allows nylon to absorb more sound vibrations, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sakura employs POK (polyketone), which, while also offering a smooth typing experience, is characterized by its superior durability and lower friction coefficient. The POK material not only ensures a clacky sound but also brings considerable toughness, being significantly more resistant to wear and shock compared to nylon. These distinctions in top housing materials will thus lead to variances in sound profile and tactile feedback when typing on each switch.
The bottom housings of both the EVA and the Sakura, however, share an important similarity, as both switches utilize nylon in this component. This commonality in material means that both switches will elicit a similarly deep and rounded sound when the key is bottomed out. Since the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel upon keystroke bottoming out, users can expect a consistent auditory profile from both switches at this point. The use of nylon at the bottom guarantees a softer response, cushioning the impact of each keystroke and enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the different materials employed in the top housings of the HMX EVA and Huano Sakura lead to distinct acoustic properties during typing, the nylon bottom housings provide a unifying auditory and tactile characteristic in both switches. The EVA's nylon tops impart a deeper, fuller sound, while the Sakura’s POK tops contribute a smoother, more resilient quality. Nevertheless, since both designs share nylon bottoms, users will enjoy a similar bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring a degree of familiarity for those transitioning between the two. Thus, users who prioritize a fuller sound profile may prefer the EVA, while those seeking durability and a clacky response might gravitate towards the Sakura, but both can achieve satisfying results through their shared nylon bottom design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, both options exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The EVA has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Sakura features a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Sakura switch is the lighter option, requiring less force for actuation and bottoming out. Both switches provide a distinct typing experience, with the EVA offering a slightly firmer feel due to its higher forces. Ultimately, those preferring a lighter feel would gravitate towards the Sakura, while those who favor a more substantial feel with a bit more resistance might opt for the EVA.
Travel distance
Both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys for both switches, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. Consequently, those seeking a consistent feel in their keystrokes will find that both switches offer equal performance in terms of travel distance, ensuring a comparable user experience across devices utilizing either switch.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch has a resonant sound signature that adds a distinct character to each keystroke, reminiscent of the iconic colors and themes from Evangelion Unit-01. This gives it a unique auditory identity that can enhance the overall typing experience, making it more engaging for those who appreciate a switch with personality. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by medium acoustics, providing a more subdued sound profile that is ideal for extended typing sessions. This balanced acoustic quality tends to be less distracting and can create a more focused environment, especially in quieter settings.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA switch is lauded for its silky smooth typing experience, delivering an effortless keystroke that can contribute to a feeling of fluidity while typing. This smoothness is particularly appealing for those who enjoy gliding through their typing tasks with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Sakura switch is noted for its feather-light touch, which allows for quick and easy key presses. This lightweight feel can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, making it a great choice for users who prioritize comfort over extensive periods of use.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Huano Sakura linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EVA excels in sound design with its resonant signature, coupled with a smooth typing feel, making it suitable for users who enjoy an expressive and fluid experience. Meanwhile, the Sakura provides a practical solution with its feather-light actuation and medium acoustics, ensuring comfort during prolonged typing. Depending on your priorities—whether you seek auditory richness or fatigue-free typing—both switches can provide satisfying results suitable for different typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, your choice should hinge on your personal typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a smooth and silkier typing experience with a slightly more resonant sound signature, the EVA could be the ideal option for you, especially if aesthetic elements inspired by Evangelion resonate with you. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams offers just enough resistance for a satisfying feel, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming while delivering an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you aim for a feather-light touch combined with a focus on extended comfort during long typing sessions, the Sakura linear switch might be more aligned with your needs. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams ensures effortless keystrokes, and its medium acoustics create a balanced environment that is neither too loud nor too subdued. Ultimately, consider how you interact with your keyboard daily; your ideal switch will depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics and tactile feedback or the ease and comfort of long-term use.
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