HMX EVA vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing experience with mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact both performance and enjoyment. The HMX EVA switch, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is renowned for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, making it a delightful option for those who appreciate a seamless and aesthetic typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch offers a deep, thocky sound profile that immerses users in a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke. Its lengthened single-stage spring adds a bouncy feel, providing a delightful tactile feedback that many enthusiasts find irresistible. While the EVA appeals to users seeking a smooth and visually stimulating switch, the Tourmaline Blue caters to those who favor a rich sound profile and responsive feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches, the differences in the top housing set the tone for their overall sound profiles. The HMX EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is primarily due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and thus produce a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue features a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper, crisper sound profile. This hard, stiffer material tends to amplify higher frequencies, resulting in a more resonant and clear sound. If users prioritize a duller, rounder sound profile, the EVA would be preferable, while those seeking a bright and articulate typing experience would favor the Itinerary Blue.

The bottoms of these switches reflect a similar distinction and thus contribute to the overall typing experience in unique ways. The HMX EVA employs a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the deeper sound aspects present in its top housing. Meanwhile, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue pairs its polycarbonate top housing with a corresponding polycarbonate bottom housing, which accentuates its sharp sound profile. The material properties of both switches dictate how the sound is perceived during operation; nylon's ability to absorb vibrations leads to a more subdued bottom-out sound, whereas polycarbonate amplifies the auditory response, providing a lively typing experience. This interaction of materials means that typing on the EVA will generally feel softer and quieter than typing on the Tourmaline Blue.

In summary, the distinct materials used in the housing of the HMX EVA and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue work together to create contrasting auditory experiences. While both switches employ nylon and polycarbonate in different combinations, the overall typing feel and sound presentation differ significantly. Should both be used in a similar setup, such as with RGB lighting, the EVA’s softer, warmer sound can provide a calming suit, while the Tourmaline Blue’s sharper sound can enhance the visual flair of illumination with its higher decibel output. Thus, while each has its merits, the choice ultimately comes down to the user's personal sound preference and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option that's suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue switch features a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while the EVA switch provides a soft touch, the Tourmaline Blue offers a firmer press, catering to different user preferences regarding typing feel and stamina.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the EVA the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that many gamers appreciate for its ability to facilitate faster key presses. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial depth that may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. While both switches cater to different user preferences—responsiveness versus depth—the differences in travel distance highlight the choices available for varying typing styles. If a user seeks a balance between speed and feedback, the EVA's slightly shorter travel distance could be an appealing option, while those who prioritize a more robust keystroke might lean towards the Tourmaline Blue.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profiles of the HMX EVA and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches offer distinct auditory experiences for typists. The EVA is noted for its resonant sound signature that contributes a unique character to the typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue features a deep and thocky sound profile, reminiscent of a carefully engineered acoustic environment. The Tourmaline Blue is characterized as neutral, which allows it to adapt well across different usage scenarios—be it for casual typing or more intensive gaming sessions. Similar to the EVA, the Tourmaline Blue’s sound is influenced by external factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap choice, meaning that you can achieve different tonal qualities depending on how you configure your keyboard.

When it comes to feel, the differences between the two switches become more pronounced. The HMX EVA is recognized for its silky smooth typing experience that allows for easy and fluid keystrokes, enhancing comfort during prolonged use. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue offers a bouncy feel, thanks to its lengthened single-stage spring that provides a lighter touch and effortless actuation. The buttery and easy-to-press nature of the Tourmaline Blue ensures that each keystroke is less straining on the fingers, making it ideal for long typing sessions. The mild characteristics of the Tourmaline Blue mean that users can expect a more gentler typing experience, appealing to a broader audience, while the EVA’s smoothness may cater to those who prioritize a luxurious touch.

In summary, while both the HMX EVA and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches offer unique advantages, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The EVA’s resonant tones and silky smoothness provide a particular charm, suitable for those who enjoy a more distinctive auditory experience. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue’s deep sound and lightweight, bouncy feel make it a versatile choice that can accommodate various typing needs. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a resonant sound and smooth typing or a deeper sound profile coupled with a lighter actuation. Whichever you choose, both promises to elevate your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when considering the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it’s vital to reflect on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter tactile experience, where the actuation feels effortless and you value a silky smooth keystroke paired with a resonant sound signature, the HMX EVA would be your ideal choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for long typing sessions, as its 48-gram actuation force minimizes finger fatigue, making for a more comfortable experience overall. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly more substantial feel with a bouncy sensation on each keystroke, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue would be the better option for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams and buttery smooth operation, this switch provides a satisfying and immersive typing experience, combining a deep sound profile that appeals to users looking for a more robust auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches cater to different user needs—choose the HMX EVA for lightness and smoothness or the Everglide Tourmaline Blue for a more tactile and engaging experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more