HMX EVA vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EVA and the HMX Swift are two exceptional linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a touch of nostalgia along with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Swift boasts a deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings, offering a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the EVA's more vibrant notes. With a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift is often described using terms like "clacky," "feathery," and "creamy," appealing to users who appreciate a softer touch and bouncy responsiveness. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but their distinct sound signatures and tactile attributes enable users to find their perfect fit. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and the HMX Swift share significant similarities when it comes to their housing materials, particularly with their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material is integral to the overall typing experience, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. Both models utilize this characteristic of nylon to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon as a housing material allows for a more muted and rounded auditory experience, providing users with a comfortable and pleasant acoustic backdrop regardless of the keypress strength.
In the case of both the HMX EVA and HMX Swift, the consistency in their housing materials means that typists can expect comparable performance in terms of switch feel and sound quality. With identical nylon housings, any nuances in sound that emerge when typing—whether it's the bottoming out of the switch or the sound produced when releasing a key—will predominantly resonate in a similar manner. Since every aspect of the switches employs nylon, the overall acoustic properties will not only match closely in tone but also create a harmonious typing rhythm. Thus, users can feel confident that they can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feedback whether using the EVA or the Swift.
However, if there were differences in housing materials, the impact on the typing experience would be more pronounced. Each housing type contributes distinct qualities, so a mismatch could lead to notable variances in feel and sound. For instance, if a harder plastic material were used in the bottom housing of one model, it would likely create a sharper sound upon bottoming out, while the softer nylon top would still promote a rounder release tone. In the case of the EVA and the Swift, such differences are moot due to their shared use of nylon, ensuring a uniform sensation and acoustic output that typists will appreciate equally across both models.
Weight
The HMX EVA and HMX Swift linear switches display some similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light and conducive for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the EVA has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Swift has a marginally heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the Swift gives users a slightly firmer feedback when reaching the bottom of the keypress. Therefore, if one favors a more substantial typing experience, the Swift might be the preferable option, albeit by a small margin, while the EVA remains an excellent choice for those who enjoy typing or gaming for longer periods without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA and HMX Swift linear switches, the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Swift has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the EVA will offer a quicker response time, making it an ideal choice for gamers who favor shorter travel distances for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Swift’s longer 3.9 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper, more tactile keypress. Consequently, if you prefer a responsive experience with a less abrupt action, the HMX EVA would be the better option, while those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in key travel may prefer the HMX Swift.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EVA switch is characterized by a resonant sound signature that likely captures a vibrant and full-bodied auditory experience. This switch leans towards a melodious tone when engaged, designed to provide an engaging acoustic feedback that may be particularly satisfying for users who appreciate an expressive typing sound. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch features a deeper sound profile attributed to its full nylon housings. This results in a distinctly clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each key press. The audible sharpness provides a crisp and bright contrast, making it well-suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced and lively auditory experience.
Regarding the feel, the EVA offers a silky smooth typing sensation that allows for an effortless glide across the keys. This smoothness enhances the typing experience, making it enjoyable for extended use. The precise qualities of the EVA may aim to provide a refined feedback that caters to typists seeking fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Swift switches excel in providing an accommodating and gentle typing feel. With a light 42g actuation force, they are perceived as easy to press, reducing finger fatigue and promoting comfort during long typing sessions. The combination of characteristics such as a feathery touch, a bouncy rebound sensation, and a creamy glide creates a responsive and enjoyable interaction with the keyboard, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA switch offers a more melodious and resonant sound experience combined with a smooth typing feel, the HMX Swift switch presents a sharper auditory profile alongside an effortlessly tactile feedback. Both switches provide a silky smooth typing experience, though the Swift's deeper sound and lighter actuation force cater to users seeking a balance of comfort and a lively typing sensation. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel; however, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX EVA and HMX Swift linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lighter key feel coupled with a more resonant sound signature, the HMX EVA would be an excellent choice, particularly if aesthetics matter to you as it draws inspiration from Evangelion Unit-01. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it appropriate for those who favor less resistance and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize an effortless actuation and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift, with its slightly heavier 50 grams bottom-out force and clacky auditory feedback, may be the way to go. The Swift’s easy-to-press design, combined with its feathery, bouncy, and creamy characteristics, makes it particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort and responsiveness are essential. Thus, your choice should align with whether you prefer a more expressive typing experience with the EVA, or the nurturing, engaging feel of the Swift.
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