HMX EVA vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence the typing experience, and two intriguing options are the HMX EVA and the Gateron Smoothie Silver. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth feel, making it a visually and audibly appealing choice for enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics alongside performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts an all-POM composition that ensures a quick actuation with a short travel distance, offering a thocky sound profile and incredibly lightweight touch that caters to those who prioritize speed and efficiency. While both switches are categorized as linear, catering to different user preferences, their unique characteristics serve different purposes. The EVA is ideal for users who enjoy a smooth typing experience with audible feedback, whereas the Smoothie Silver appeals to those seeking rapid response times. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches each feature distinct housing materials, greatly influencing their acoustic profiles and tactile responses. The EVA utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is recognized as a classic switch material. Nylon's softer properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, effectively dampening impacts and reducing higher frequencies for a muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver adopts POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, offering a unique sound profile that is similarly deeper but distinctively more pleasing. POM is harder than nylon, which can provide a different feel during typing and affect the switches' sound when pressed and released. While both materials deliver muted tones, the nuances in their compositions lead to variations in how these sounds manifest during use.
Despite noticeable differences in the materials, both switches are engineered to produce a generally deeper sound profile that is less sharp than others, thanks to their respected housings. The EVA's nylon is adept at sound absorption, which contributes to its capabilities in creating a rounder and fuller tone, while the smoother acoustics of the POM found in the Smoothie Silver lends itself well to a unique yet similarly muted auditory experience. Ultimately, keyboard enthusiasts may recognize that while the switches utilize different materials, they share a design intent geared towards creating satisfying auditory feedback. Consequently, both can be expected to yield similar results in terms of providing a deep and pleasant sound while typing.
The interaction between the top and bottom housing materials also plays a crucial role in the overall performance of each switch. In the EVA, the nylon's softer nature enhances the bottom-out sound, ensuring a sound profile that feels cohesive and complete throughout the typing cycle. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver, with its POM material, may impact the bottoming out experience differently, potentially leading to a more pronounced and distinct feel. Ultimately, while users can appreciate the unique strengths of nylon in the EVA and POM in the Smoothie Silver, their similarities lend to a shared goal of creating an enjoyable and rounded typing experience despite the divergent material choices.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams, while the Smoothie Silver requires a slightly heavier 45 grams to register a keystroke. This difference may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions, making the EVA a suitable choice for those who work or game for extended periods. In terms of bottom out force, the EVA also holds an advantage, presenting a bottom out force of 48 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver remains unknown. Consequently, while the actuation forces differ, the EVA is definitively the lighter option overall, catering to users who favor a more effortless typing experience, while the Smoothie Silver, with its heavier actuation force, may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The EVA switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Smoothie Silver features a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights the EVA's appeal for users who enjoy a deeper key press, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver aligns with the preferences of gamers seeking quicker response times and more immediate feedback. In essence, those who appreciate a more responsive feel may gravitate towards the Smoothie Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial depth will likely favor the EVA.
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 Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 is likely to enhance the auditory experience while typing, creating a unique atmospheric element reminiscent of its design inspiration from Evangelion Unit-01. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts a very thocky sound, which can be especially satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with every keystroke. Both switches have their own appealing sound profiles, but it’s important to remember that the overall sound will be influenced by the keyboard's material and construction, as well as the keycaps you choose to pair with them.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA switch is renowned for its silky smooth typing experience, which can be particularly enjoyable for those who prioritize a fluid glide across the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver offers unparalleled smoothness coupled with a feather-light touch, making it exceptionally responsive and requiring minimal effort to actuate. While both switches provide smooth keystrokes, the EVA leans more towards a luxurious typing experience, whereas the Smoothie Silver emphasizes a quick, effortless actuation—ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer distinct qualities that may cater to different preferences. The EVA excels in delivering a resonant sound and a silky smooth feel, while the Smoothie Silver offers a thocky sound paired with lightning-fast actuation and a feather-light touch. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch could lead to satisfying results, emphasizing either acoustic pleasure or rapid responsiveness in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, your choice ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you appreciate a resonant sound signature alongside a silky smooth feel, the EVA might be the right fit for you, especially given its light 48-gram actuation force. This makes it an excellent option for extended typing sessions or gaming, where responsiveness and comfort are crucial. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-fast actuation and unparalleled smoothness, the Smoothie Silver excels with its feather-light touch and short travel distance. This could be particularly appealing if you're into competitive gaming or require quick engagements in your typing tasks. Therefore, consider the sound and feel that resonate with you—whether you're drawn to the evocative aesthetics of the EVA or the streamlined performance of the Smoothie Silver—as the right switch can significantly enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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