HMX EVA vs. HMX SU

Overview

When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference often plays a vital role in enhancing your typing or gaming experience. The HMX EVA and HMX SU, both linear switches, cater to different tastes and styles. The HMX EVA is inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01 and is celebrated for its resonant sound signature combined with a remarkably smooth typing feel, making it an attractive choice for users who appreciate aesthetics as much as performance. In contrast, the HMX SU boasts a full PA12 housing and is equipped with a T5 stem, resulting in a subtle, yet relatively deep sound profile that appeals to those who desire a more understated auditory feedback while typing. While both switches offer a linear typing experience conducive to rapid keystrokes and minimal actuation noise, their unique sound characteristics and design inspirations may influence your decision. 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

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EVA and HMX SU switches share a critical similarity in their housing materials, as both the top and bottom housings are constructed from nylon. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is well-regarded for its acoustic properties, which contribute to a distinct sound profile. Because both switches utilize nylon throughout their housings, you can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastic materials, which results in a muted and rounded sound profile. As a result, both the EVA and SU deliver a consistent typing experience characterized by a well-rounded auditory feedback.

While both the EVA and SU feature nylon housings in the same configuration, it is important to understand how the various components interact to produce the overall tactile and auditory experience. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a pivotal role in the sound produced when releasing the key. This means that although the materials are the same, the sensation and audio characteristics during different phases of key activation can still vary slightly based on how each switch is refined or designed. However, the uniform nylon composition ensures that the sound absorption properties are equivalent in both models.

In conclusion, the lack of material variance in both the HMX EVA and HMX SU means that users can expect similar performance in terms of sound and feel across both switches. The shared nylon construction confirms that they will both deliver a satisfying typing experience defined by a deeper sound profile. While each switch might present subtle differences in tactile feedback due to design nuances, the foundational qualities provided by nylon will allow both models to yield comparable results. Therefore, for users looking for consistency in sound and feel, either switch would likely meet their expectations effectively.

Weight

Comparing the HMX EVA and HMX SU linear switches reveals some interesting distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the SU switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which also qualifies as light but is marginally heavier than the EVA. While both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of overall lightness, the EVA offers a more effortless actuation, which can be beneficial for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. However, the SU's slightly increased force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, while the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are subtle, they can influence the choice depending on user preference for weight and typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on the keys associated with either switch, you will experience the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar keyfeel and actuation characteristics when using these switches, contributing to a consistent typing experience across both models.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX EVA delivers a resonant sound signature that many find pleasing, reminiscent of the distinct audio characteristic associated with its design inspiration from Evangelion Unit-01. This resonant nature is likely to produce satisfying acoustic feedback during typing. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches provide a subtly deep sound profile, which, while not as resonant, offers a different auditory experience that some users might prefer for a more subdued typing environment. It’s important to remember that the perceived sound of both switches can vary depending on the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps, so individual setups may yield different results.

When considering the feel of the switches, the HMX EVA is recognized for its silky smooth typing experience, promoting a comfortable and effortless action when pressing the keys. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, as users often report a satisfying gliding motion without any tactile bumps. Conversely, the HMX SU, featuring a T5 stem, may provide a different kind of smoothness but is less detailed in typical descriptions. While exact details of the SU's feel are not explicitly mentioned, users can expect a quality linear switch that similarly favors ease of use, albeit possibly with a different nuance in tactile response.

Overall, both the HMX EVA and HMX SU linear switches are designed to deliver excellent typing experiences, although they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The EVA stands out with its resonant signature and silky smooth action, while the SU offers a subtly deeper auditory experience with potentially comparable smoothness. Ultimately, exploring both options will lead newcomers to discover the qualities that best suit their typing style, making either choice a valid one for an engaging mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA and HMX SU linear switches, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specifics of your typing habits. If you prefer a tactile, smooth experience that is paired with a unique and resonant sound signature, the EVA switch may be the better choice for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for those who enjoy quick, responsive keystrokes, whether for gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, if you value a more subtle sound profile and a slightly firmer touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX SU switch could be more suitable. Its deeper sound and robust construction may appeal to users who appreciate a different auditory experience and a little more resistance while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs and the type of experience you seek in your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more