HMX EVA vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence both your typing experience and performance. The HMX EVA, a linear switch inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, making it an ideal option for those who prioritize a fluid, uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, offers a cozy typing experience with its snappy, medium-level tactility and acute, crisp clacks that provide both feedback and satisfaction with each keystroke. While the EVA might appeal to gamers and typists who prefer a silent and streamlined experience, the Taro is likely to resonate with users who enjoy the tactile feedback and auditory cues that accompany their typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Jwick Taro, one notable difference lies in their top housings. The EVA features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition that contributes to a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, producing a fuller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Taro is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, resulting in a distinctly high-pitched sound. This material choice not only influences the acoustic quality but also offers aesthetic advantages, particularly for users who desire RGB lighting effects, as its translucency allows for better light diffusion.
In terms of bottom housing, both the EVA and Taro utilize nylon, which maintains a uniform auditory experience across both switches concerning bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to a deeper sound profile during typing, effectively creating a cohesive bottom-out experience. This similarity in material means that, regardless of the differences observed in the top housings, users will experience consistent performance regarding the tactile feedback and sound profile when the switch is actuated. This adherence to nylon's acoustic properties ensures that the overall feel remains familiar and satisfying for users who appreciate a fuller auditory feedback.
The interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials in each switch yields distinct typing experiences while allowing for some similarities due to their common use of nylon in the bottom housing. While the EVA’s nylon top creates a duller sound profile that emphasizes the depth of each keystroke, the Taro’s polycarbonate top enhances the clarity of sound, providing a vibrant acoustic edge. However, since both switches share nylon in their bottom construction, they will both deliver a consistent tactile feel and a deep bottom-out sound, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. These contrasting top housings bring unique auditory qualities that will appeal to different preferences while showcasing how a blend of materials can be utilized to provide an optimal typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Taro does not specify an actuation force, but it features a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who favor a more substantial typing experience. As a result, one can expect a more tactile feedback with the Taro switch, while the EVA offers a softer touch, leading to less fatigue during prolonged use. Overall, the EVA is the lighter option, designed for comfort, while the Taro provides a firmer feel that some users may find more satisfying for their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the EVA has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Taro comes in slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This indicates that the EVA is the shorter option, making it potentially more responsive and better suited for users who prioritize quicker key presses, such as gamers. In contrast, the Taro's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and deeper typing experience, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down. Overall, while both switches are relatively close in distance, the EVA offers a slight edge in responsiveness, and the Taro provides a more pronounced depth.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 enhances the auditory experience, offering a richness that complements its aesthetic inspiration from Evangelion Unit-01. This gives it a more immersive sound profile that can engage the typist. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch presents a neutral sound that is both acute and crisp, providing a moderate level of noise suitable for various environments, be it at home or in the office. While the EVA may stand out with its unique resonance, the Taro's clear and defined clacks ensure a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA switch offers a silky smooth typing experience that aims to deliver an effortless keystroke. This allows for a seamless flow during typing, making it ideal for those seeking a very smooth action. Conversely, the Jwick Taro switch features a combination of buttery smoothness with a medium level of tactility. This means that while the typing is still fluid, users will encounter a noticeable tactile bump during engagement, reminiscent of a stepped response rather than a strong tactile push. This mix of feeling adds a layer of satisfaction for those who enjoy a tactile element in their typing experience.
In conclusion, while the HMX EVA switch charms with its resonant sound and smooth typing experience, the Jwick Taro switch balances tactile feedback with a clean sound profile for a comfortable yet engaging experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences; if you're leaning towards a more immersive sound and feel, the EVA might be your choice, while the Taro is perfect for those who appreciate a tactile response with crisp acoustic feedback. Each switch brings its own flavor, ensuring there’s likely an option that can meet the needs of a diverse range of typists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a light typing experience combined with a smooth feel and a resonant sound signature reminiscent of the iconic Evangelion Unit-01, the EVA switch might be your ideal choice. It’s perfect for fast typing and gaming, appealing to those who appreciate a linear switch without any tactile bump. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a snappy feel and don’t mind a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Taro switch may be better suited for you. Its buttery smooth operation, combined with its acute and crisp clack sound, creates a cozy and satisfying typing experience, which is particularly enjoyable for both work and leisure. Therefore, weigh these characteristics against what you value most in a typing experience, and select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience to its fullest.
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