HMX EVA vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference often dictates the ideal choice for any typist. The HMX EVA switch stands out with its striking design inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01 and is celebrated for its resonant sound signature, providing a multi-sensory typing experience that enthusiasts cherish. With a smooth keystroke, the EVA caters to those who appreciate both aesthetics and tactile pleasure. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches are engineered for maximum quietness, ensuring a whisper-quiet typing experience akin to raindrops gently tapping on a window. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, these switches appeal to users who desire a light yet satisfying keystroke without the distraction of noise. Both switches offer unique advantages, whether you’re drawn to the visual flair and auditory feedback of the EVA or the serene silence and comfort of the Silent Sakura. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing nylon, a classic choice known for its ability to enhance the sound profile of mechanical switches. This nylon composition contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, as it tends to absorb sound better than harder plastics. Since both models feature this nylon top, users can expect a similar tactile feedback and acoustic characteristic upon key press, which leads to a richer, rounder sound profile when typing. This similarity in top housing material means that the actuation feel and upper sound profile will largely converge between the two switches.
When examining the bottom housing of the two switches, a notable contrast emerges. The HMX EVA employs a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the softer texture of the top, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material that generates a sharper and crisper sound, lending itself to a more pronounced auditory clarity during typing. This divergence means that while the top housing in both switches fosters a similar sound signature, the bottom housing affects the overall sound and tactile feedback differently. The EVA's nylon bottom provides a smoother, more muffled sound on bottoming out, whereas the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom allows for a more resonant and brighter sound, especially noticeable when keys are released.
In practice, the differences between the HMX EVA and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g highlight how the combination of top and bottom housing materials shapes user experience. The EVA's consistent nylon composition contributes to a uniform acoustic profile from key press to release, while the dual-material setup of the Silent Sakura introduces distinct sound qualities reliant on the interactions between the nylon top and polycarbonate bottom. Consequently, users of both switches will find their typing experiences enjoyable in their own ways; those looking for a cohesive, muted sound may gravitate towards the EVA, while those who appreciate a crisp and clearer sound profile might prefer the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. Nonetheless, both options will deliver satisfying results, appealing to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, notable differences are evident in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a bit more resistance. Therefore, the EVA switch is the lighter option overall, while the Silent Sakura is heavier. Despite their differences, both switches deliver a smooth typing experience, but the EVA may be more accommodating for long periods of use due to its reduced actuation force.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the EVA measuring 3.6 mm and the Silent Sakura at 4 mm. This means that the EVA offers a shorter travel distance, which can cater to gamers or users who prefer a quicker response time and a more immediate tactile feedback when pressing keys. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper keypress and a less abrupt typing experience. Therefore, while the EVA might be favored for fast-paced gaming or efficiency, the Silent Sakura will likely appeal to users who appreciate the comfort and heft of a longer key travel.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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
The HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by a resonant sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience that adds to the overall typing ambiance. This quality is particularly appealing to those who appreciate mechanical feedback and enjoy a more pronounced auditory response. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g focuses on creating an exceptionally quiet typing experience, evoking the gentle sound of raindrops. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, the sound characteristics of each switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's build and the keycaps used, which means that users can achieve either a more resonant or a whisper-quiet sound based on their configuration.
The feel of the EVA switch is described as silky smooth, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a fluid typing experience. This smoothness enhances the tactile sensation of each keystroke and can lead to increased typing speed and comfort over extended periods. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch features a perfectly balanced light press with a satisfying keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch without sacrificing a sense of feedback. This balance helps reduce finger fatigue, especially during long typing sessions. While both switches emphasize a smooth typing experience, they cater to different preferences based on the user's desired keystroke force and feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The EVA switch offers a more resonant and pronounced auditory feedback ideal for those that enjoy an engaging sound environment. In contrast, the Silent Sakura provides a quiet yet satisfying experience, perfect for discrete typing scenarios. Both switches ensure a smooth typing experience, making them suitable choices depending on whether sound or silence is the priority for the user.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a lighter touch and seek a unique sound profile, the EVA switch, with its 48g bottom out force, will suit your needs well; it offers a smooth typing feel infused with a resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more mature and understated experience, especially for quiet environments such as offices or shared spaces, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is your best bet. Its slightly heavier, 53g bottom out force provides a satisfying balance of resistance and is designed for silent operation, allowing you to type without the distraction of noise. So, whether you desire the expressive character of the EVA or the discreet efficiency of the Silent Sakura, you can confidently choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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