HMX EVA vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics and overall feel of each option. The HMX EVA switch, inspired by the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize aesthetic appeal and a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch excels in delivering a buttery smooth experience through its progressive spring and innovative dry-lube design, offering a more subdued auditory profile while categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild—ideal for users seeking a less intrusive sound while typing. While both switches cater to linear switch aficionados with their smooth actuation and performance, the choice ultimately depends on your preference for sound and design aesthetics. 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

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX EVA and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon differ significantly when it comes to their top housings. The EVA employs nylon, a material known for its softer characteristics that absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This gives the switches a rounder and mellower auditory experience, appealing to users who prefer a more muted keystroke sound. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is crisper and more resonant. The aesthetic quality of polycarbonate, particularly in its translucency, also makes it a preferred choice for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual experience of the switch.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, both the EVA and the Sea Salt Lemon utilize nylon, the classic housing material that is associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality in the bottom housing means that while the top housing materials dictate the overall sound character of each switch during key releases, both switches will produce similar auditory results when bottoming out due to the shared properties of nylon. As both switches absorb sound well in this part, users can expect that initial key presses will yield a similarly subdued and rounded sound from both models.

Overall, the contrasting top housing materials create unique sound profiles that can alter the typing experience. The EVA’s nylon top results in a softer, more muted auditory experience, while the Sea Salt Lemon’s polycarbonate top provides a brighter and more articulated keystroke sound. However, the common nylon bottom housing means that regardless of the differences in sound profile when releasing keys, both switches will still create a mellow auditory result during a key press. Therefore, while users might notice distinct differences in the sound and feel of each switch, both can provide a satisfying typing experience thanks to the nylon commonality in their bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentler typing experience, ideal for prolonged use during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which caters to users seeking a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Therefore, the EVA switch is lighter, while the Sea Salt Lemon is heavier. This difference influences the typing experience, with the EVA providing a smoother, less demanding keystroke, and the Sea Salt Lemon offering a firmer feel. If users find they enjoy a similar experience, they might gravitate toward the EVA for less fatigue or the Sea Salt Lemon for a more robust feel, based on their individual preferences for typing dynamics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we find that the EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Salt Lemon extends to 4 mm. This places the EVA as the shorter option, catering to those who favor a quicker response time, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon's longer travel distance of 4 mm may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feel during keystrokes, providing a more substantial depth that some find preferable for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more tactile experience, with both offering distinct advantages based on their travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA switch is best characterized by its resonant signature, which tends to produce a deeper, more textured sound profile compared to typical linear switches. This unique auditory experience can enhance your typing enjoyment, offering a dynamic quality that is distinctively engaging. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are noted for their low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics. The low-pitched tone delivers a bass-heavy, mellow ambiance, while the neutral aspect ensures that the sound is moderated, making it versatile enough for both work and leisure environments. While both switches have their distinct auditory identities, the EVA provides a more resonant and textured experience, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon complements typing with a familiar, soothing sound.

When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX EVA is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, leading to fluid keystrokes that enhance comfort during extended periods of use. This smoothness is particularly beneficial for typists who seek a premium tactile sensation without the distraction of any friction. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is characterized by its mild feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. The combination of a progressive spring and dry-lube design ensures that these switches maintain a buttery smooth action, but it does so within a controlled range. This makes both switches suitable for a wide spectrum of users, from beginners to seasoned typists, albeit the EVA leans slightly towards a richer typing sensation.

In summary, both the HMX EVA and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer smooth and pleasant typing experiences, though they differ in auditory tone and tactile feedback. The EVA provides a resonant sound with a silky feel, making it stand out for those who prioritize a rich auditory engagement and a premium typing sensation. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon excels in providing a mellow, low-pitched auditory experience with a mild feel that remains approachable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, each switch can deliver satisfying performance, and your choice may boil down to personal sound preferences and the type of tactile engagement you seek during your typing sessions.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the specific experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a unique aesthetic flair inspired by Evangelion, the EVA, with its 48 grams of bottom-out force, is an excellent choice. Its resonant sound profile and silky smooth feel can offer a delightful typing experience, particularly if you enjoy a switch that emphasizes character and vibrancy in its design. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more balanced and versatile option with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 53 grams, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a refined and buttery smooth typing experience. Its low-pitched and neutral sound profile makes it suitable for both home and work environments, while its mild feel can accommodate various typing styles, making it approachable for both newcomers and seasoned users alike. In the end, your choice should reflect not just your personal taste in sound and feel, but also your intended use for the keyboard—be it gaming, casual typing, or professional tasks.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more