HMX EVA vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both offer unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and a silky smooth typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more responsive feel during intense gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is designed for quieter environments, providing a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While both switches deliver a linear typing experience, the EVA prioritizes an engaging tactile quality, whereas the Silent Ink Black emphasizes discretion and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is evident that they employ different compositions that significantly influence their acoustic and tactile properties. The EVA utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, a material known for its softer, sound-dampening qualities. As a result, switches incorporating nylon create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, which is characterized by a duller and rounder resonance. This property makes the EVA particularly appealing to users who prefer a more muted typing experience that absorbs sound effectively.
In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black opts for a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, producing a sound profile that is notably high-pitched and somewhat clacky. This material provides a sharper tonal quality, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. The distinct contrast between the nylon used in the EVA and the INK blend of the Silent Ink Black reflects a broader trend in mechanical keyboards, where the choice of housing material can drastically affect the typing experience. While the EVA's nylon promotes a soft, richer sound, the Silent Ink Black offers a snappy and satisfying acoustics that caters to a different set of preferences.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials suggest that the EVA and Silent Ink Black will deliver contrasting experiences. The EVA’s use of nylon throughout allows for a uniform, muted sound, while the Silent Ink Black provides a dynamic auditory feedback attributed to its INK blend. However, it's important to note that the variation in materials could lead users to discover distinct characteristics in the bottom and top-out experiences between the switches. For those seeking similar results, opting for a switch that combines both softer and sharper qualities could yield a balanced typing sound, but the intrinsic nature of the different materials will offer unique experiences overall.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming, allowing for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that can cater to those who enjoy a firm typing experience. Consequently, while the EVA is the lighter option better suited for prolonged typing sessions, the Silent Ink Black, with its heavier feel, is designed for individuals who appreciate a more robust tactile response. Thus, users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the HMX EVA, while those seeking a stronger actuation feel might prefer the Gateron Silent Ink Black.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that users of the EVA switch will experience a shorter keypress as it travels less distance from top to bottom compared to the Silent Ink Black. Those who favor the shorter travel distance of the EVA might appreciate the increased responsiveness, making it more suitable for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black provides a deeper keypress, which some users find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding key feel and the intended use.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 presents a resonant sound signature that adds a distinct character to the typing experience, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback than many other linear switches. This quality may appeal to users who enjoy a slightly more engaging sound profile while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black’s muted sound design prioritizes quiet operation, making it an optimal choice for environments where noise can be a disturbance. With a design intended to minimize the clacky sounds typically associated with mechanical keyboards, typing on the Silent Ink Black yields a softer, hushed sound that is less intrusive, yet still retains the satisfying acoustic feedback that linear switches provide.
When examining the feel, the HMX EVA switch has a notably smooth typing experience, characterized by its silky texture that allows for seamless keypresses. This smoothness enhances the overall user experience, making it easier to type quickly and efficiently without any noticeable resistance. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers both a silky feel and a polished finish, achieving a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out sensation. This combination not only minimizes friction but also provides a refined and comfortable typing experience. The result is a switch that feels gentle on the fingers, making it particularly suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, while both the HMX EVA and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches present appealing qualities, they cater to slightly different user preferences. The EVA's resonant sound signature and silky feel provide an engaging and smooth experience, ideal for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback during typing. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black focuses on quiet operation and plush comfort, making it the better choice for users who need to maintain a peaceful environment. Ultimately, both switches can offer satisfying results, with the EVA leaning towards an expressive typing feel and sound, while the Silent Ink Black prioritizes stealth and comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and specific typing environment. If you favor a lighter touch and an engaging, resonant sound signature during your typing sessions, the EVA is an excellent choice, especially for gamers or typists who appreciate a smoother and more responsive feel. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it easier to actuate keys with less effort, which can enhance your overall comfort during long typing tasks. On the other hand, if you need a switch that minimizes noise and provides a more cushioned experience, particularly in shared or quiet environments, the Silent Ink Black is your go-to option. With a heavier 70-gram actuation force, it offers a more deliberate typing experience while maintaining that silky, polished feel that reduces distractions for both you and those around you. Therefore, consider your typing style, the noise level of your surroundings, and your preferred feedback to select the switch that will best meet your needs.
Mentioned in this article
