HMX EVA vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and Durock Sea Glass offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, delivers a resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both aesthetics and performance. On the other hand, Durock's Sea Glass switches impress with their captivating pastel colors and a typing experience that combines a distinct dryness and airiness, all while maintaining a remarkably smooth action. With a bottom-out force of 62g, the Sea Glass switches offer a feather-light touch that enhances long typing sessions, making them particularly enticing for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Durock Sea Glass switches, we see notable similarities and differences that influence the overall typing experience. The HMX EVA features a classic nylon top and bottom housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due, in part, to nylon’s properties as a softer plastic that effectively absorbs sound. The resulting auditory experience is characterized by a duller and rounder tonal quality that many enthusiasts appreciate. Conversely, the Durock Sea Glass employs a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both the top and bottom housings. This combination offers a sound profile that is described as pleasant and brighter, differing from the traditional warmth associated with nylon.
While the HMX EVA's nylon housing provides a consistent auditory output for both the top and bottom, the Durock Sea Glass offers a more dynamic experience due to its blend of materials. The polymer nylon and UHMWPE mix is designed to create a sound that is bright yet not overly sharp, leading to a different typing sensation. However, both switches share a foundational quality in their materials that allows for a satisfying tactile feedback. While the EVA's softer nylon consistently absorbs sound, the Sea Glass's unique blend maintains a pleasant auditory quality while introducing a slight uptick in brightness. This difference can provide typists with a varied experience depending on the choice of switch.
Ultimately, both switches will yield impressive sound and feel upon actuation, albeit in distinct ways. The characteristics of the HMX EVA, rooted in the classic nylon composition, result in a more rounded auditory experience, while the Durock Sea Glass provides a brighter, more nuanced sound profile due to its advanced material blend. Despite these differences, what stands out is the inherent capacity of either switch to deliver satisfying acoustic feedback depending on the housing components. Thus, even with varying materials, users can anticipate a high-quality typing experience, each switch presenting its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easier for users to trigger keystrokes and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Consequently, the EVA is more suitable for those seeking a lightweight option for long periods of use, while the Sea Glass caters to users who appreciate a firmer resistance. Overall, users will notice that the EVA provides a lighter feel compared to the heavier Durock Sea Glass, which may influence their choice based on personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference signifies that the Sea Glass switch may cater to those who prefer a more profound tactile experience, providing a greater sense of key engagement with each press. In contrast, the EVA's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as the keys actuate with less travel. Ultimately, the EVA offers a more responsive feel, while the Sea Glass allows for a more substantial and deliberate action. Choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for either responsiveness or depth in key presses.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 switch offers a resonant sound signature that is likely to provide a rich auditory experience while typing, appealing to users who appreciate distinctive sound profiles. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch is characterized by a uniquely hollow sound signature, suggesting a more airy, subdued auditory experience. While both switches feature distinct sound qualities, it's important to note that the overall sound will also depend significantly on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, which can enhance or muffle each switch's sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the EVA switch stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, which suggests a refined and pleasant tactile presence. Conversely, the Sea Glass switch boasts multiple attributes such as frictionless travel, a mild sensation, and a feathery lightness that collectively create an effortlessly smooth and comfortable typing environment. Users can expect the Sea Glass to provide a gentle resistance with an easy-to-press feel, making both switches appealing for extensive typing sessions. However, the EVA's description leans more towards a satisfying yet present tactile feedback, providing a contrast to the Sea Glass's almost weightless and airy characteristics.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA and Durock Sea Glass linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, each offers a unique mechanical keyboard experience. The EVA's resonant sound and silky smooth feel provide an engaging typing experience, while the Sea Glass's hollow sound and frictionless, feathery nature deliver a comfortable, low-resistance feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a rich sound signature or a lightweight and effortless typing experience, but both can achieve satisfying results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter, more responsive feel and enjoy a smooth typing experience with distinctive sound characteristics, the HMX EVA will likely suit you well. Its 48g bottom-out force makes it a great option for those who type for extended periods or engage in repetitive gaming sessions. The resonant sound signature of the EVA adds an enjoyable auditory dimension, enhancing your overall typing experience. Conversely, if you appreciate a medium actuation force and are drawn to a hollow yet airier sound profile, the Durock Sea Glass might be your ideal choice. Although it has a heavier bottom-out force at 62 grams, its frictionless nature and unique feel deliver an effortless, fluid typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Therefore, whether you lean towards the vibrant aesthetics of the EVA or the pastel charm of the Sea Glass, understanding these nuances will empower you to make a choice that aligns perfectly with your typing needs and aesthetic preferences.
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