HMX EVA vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can often come down to personal preference and the desired experience. The HMX EVA switch stands out with its inspiration from the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offering a resonant sound signature and a beautifully smooth typing feel that appeals to fans of both high-performance and aesthetically pleasing designs. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow delivers a delightful and unique auditory experience reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, thanks to its bassy and indulgent tones. These Creamsicle-colored switches boast a medium-weight action that caters to a diverse array of typists, coupled with the impressive Ly stem and specialized factory lube method that contribute to a remarkably frictionless glide. While both switches are linear and designed for a smooth typing experience, their distinct characteristics cater to different user’s preferences in sound and feel. 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

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX EVA's nylon housing with the Everglide Sunset Yellow's POM housing, it is evident that both switches utilize materials that produce distinct yet complementary sound profiles. The EVA's nylon top housing is celebrated for its depth and fullness, resulting in a sound that is rounder and more subdued due to nylon's softer composition. This characteristic not only contributes to the overall auditory experience but also enhances typing comfort, as the material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Sunset Yellow's POM top housing, while different in material, is noted for providing a “pleasing and unique” sound that is also on the deeper side, albeit slightly more muted. Both switches, therefore, aim to deliver a smooth and enjoyable sound experience, albeit through different physical properties of their respective housing materials.

In terms of the bottom housing, the differences in materials persist with the EVA using nylon and the Sunset Yellow employing POM. The nylon bottom housing in the EVA mimics the sound characteristics described for its top housing, thus ensuring a consistent sound experience that emphasizes a deeper and rounded output. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing found in the Sunset Yellow also adds a muted, yet rich quality to the sound profile. While both materials aim to minimize harshness in sound and enhance the tactile experience, the EVA’s nylon bottom is softer and perhaps more forgiving, whereas the Sunset Yellow’s POM might have a slightly different tactile feedback that results in a distinct feel during typing.

Ultimately, the significant difference between the two switches comes down to the specific materials used for the top and bottom housings. While the EVA’s nylon may provide a more rounded sound, the POM's unique sound signature brings its own charm to the typing experience. If you appreciate the qualities of sound and feel each material contributes, you'll find similar satisfying results from both switches. The combination of materials will influence your experience in different ways, yet both designs ensure that achieving a pleasing sound profile is part of the overarching goal. Whether you choose the nylon of the EVA or the POM of the Sunset Yellow, each switch offers an engaging and pleasant typing experience aligned with their material properties.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option that is well-suited for prolonged typing sessions and gaming. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This indicates that while both switches will provide a relatively comfortable typing experience, the EVA switch is lighter overall, which may appeal to users looking for ease during extended use. Those who prefer a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Sunset Yellow, as its heavier forces provide slightly more resistance. In summary, the EVA is the lighter option, while the Sunset Yellow offers a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, the EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Yellow measures 3.2 mm. Hence, the EVA switch offers a longer travel distance compared to the Sunset Yellow by 0.4 mm. This difference means that users who prefer a more responsive feel may gravitate towards the shorter 3.2 mm travel of the Sunset Yellow switch, which aligns with the current trend among gamers for quicker response times. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the EVA due to its longer travel distance, providing a heartier depth. Ultimately, the distinction in travel distance suggests that the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are distinct differences. The EVA is known for its resonant sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that enhances the overall typing rhythm. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow showcases a captivating sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, characterized by deep, rich, bassy tones. Additionally, the Sunset Yellow has a thocky quality, producing a satisfying "thud" upon key presses and releases, which adds to the acoustic enjoyment. While both switches can offer a pleasant sound, the EVA leans towards a resonant profile, whereas the Sunset Yellow emphasizes bass and depth, making them appealing to different auditory preferences.

Feel-wise, the HMX EVA linear switch is described as silky smooth, offering a seamless typing experience that encourages fluidity between key presses. This smoothness is crucial for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switch shines with its creamy and frictionless characteristics, providing a buttery, nearly effortless typing experience. The unique materials and factory lubing employed in the Sunset Yellow contribute to its polished feel, which further enhances the glide of each keystroke. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Sunset Yellow takes it a step further with additional attributes that promote an even more pleasurable typing experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The EVA’s resonant sound and silky feel contrast with the Sunset Yellow’s bassy, thocky auditory profile and creamy, polished typing sensation. Ultimately, while both switches deliver enjoyable performances, your choice may depend on whether you lean towards a resonant auditory experience with smooth typing or a rich, engaging sound combined with a luxurious feel. If you appreciate similar characteristics, you can expect to find satisfying results in either option, depending on your personal preferences in sound and typing feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and tactile experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 48 grams, the HMX EVA may be the better option for you, especially if you enjoy a resonant sound signature and a typing experience that feels silky smooth. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a more subtle auditory feedback and a comfortable typing feel, making it great for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly heavier switch that offers a captivating and bassy sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles, the Everglide Sunset Yellow might be your best bet. With a bottom out force of 51 grams, this switch provides a well-rounded experience with its creamy, frictionless feel and thocky sound, catering to a broader range of users. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a lighter typing experience with a distinct sound or a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more