HMX EVA vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of linear versus tactile options, making the HMX EVA and Gazzew U4 compelling choices. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant hues of Evangelion Unit-01, offers a linear experience that is renowned for its smooth keystrokes and resonant sound signature, perfect for those who prioritize fluid typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gazzew U4, celebrated for its latest iteration of silent tactile switches, provides a sharp tactile bump that will delight users who enjoy feedback with every keystroke, as well as a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that enhances comfort during prolonged use. With the U4's whisper-quiet operation, it's an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces. While both switches bring unique attributes to the table, their core character significantly differs, catering to distinct preferences. 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

HMX EVA Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gazzew U4 switches, both utilize nylon and a proprietary plastic blend that share similar acoustic and tactile properties. The EVA's use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing contributes to a notable sound profile characterized by its deep and full quality. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound effectively, creating a rounder and less pronounced sound when typing. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 features a top and bottom housing made from a proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic," which is also designed to deliver a rich auditory experience. The softness of this material provides an equivalent depth to the acoustics, leading to a desirable and enveloping sound when typing.

While both switches aim for a rich sound profile, the differences in their materials could influence the typing experience in nuanced ways. The EVA’s nylon housing offers a consistent feel and sound signature from both the top and bottom, resulting in a uniform typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend may introduce slight variations in how the sound is articulated between the top and bottom housings. The unique characteristics of the "boba plastic" might provide an extra layer of complexity to the typing feedback, blending the impacts of the two differently composed housings more distinctively. However, the ultimate result despite these differences will still elicit a satisfying auditory experience.

Despite the contrasting compositions of the materials used in the EVA and U4 switches, they both converge on the principle of sound absorption and dampening due to the softness of the plastics. This shared property assures that users will experience a comparable quality of sound dampening, which results in a muted, less harsh auditory feedback. Whether by the classic nylon of the EVA or the proprietary formula of the U4, both switches achieve a mellow and full sound profile, making them suitable options for typists looking to reduce noise and enhance their overall typing experience. In essence, while the materials differ, the end results in terms of sound and tactile feedback remain strikingly similar, offering users a satisfying and immersive typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the EVA is lighter, offering an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the U4 features a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom-out force of 62 grams. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions, may find the EVA more comfortable. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a substantial push feel in their keystrokes may lean towards the heavier U4. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom-out forces highlight the contrasting preferences between typing lightness and a more tactile, weighted experience.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience identical key travel when pressing down on either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the tactile feedback and actuation feel would be comparable, providing a consistent experience for typists and gamers alike. As both switches exhibit the same measurement, users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness and overall feel, regardless of their choice between the two.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX EVA switch boasts a resonant sound signature that likely adds a pronounced acoustic character to each keystroke, contributing a certain vibrancy to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switches are known for their muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter auditory feedback compared to more traditional switches. With a low-pitched tone, the U4s deliver a mellow sound that minimizes the clack often associated with mechanical keyboards, making them an excellent option for quiet environments or shared workspaces.

In terms of feel, the EVA switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, offering a fluid motion with each keystroke that many typists find highly enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch presents a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that provides an intense feedback experience. This strong tactile response is complemented by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, resulting in a nuanced typing experience that stands in contrast to the smoothness of the EVA, thus appealing to those who seek a clear, tactile indication of actuation on each key press.

In conclusion, while the HMX EVA and Gazzew U4 switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to distinct preferences in keyboard feel and sound. The EVA provides a resonant acoustic signature and a smooth typing feel, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a lively sound when they type. Meanwhile, the U4s deliver a subdued yet rich auditory experience alongside a pronounced tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, resonant typing experience or a sharp, tactile response with a whisper-quiet demeanor.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a lightweight key press and enjoy a smooth, consistent feel without the distraction of tactile bumps, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice. The resonant sound signature and the inspiration from the Evangelion Unit-01’s colors add a unique flair to your typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate aesthetics and smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer the tactile feedback of a crisp bump with a distinct bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. Its medium resistance offers a more pronounced tactile experience that can enhance typing rhythm, particularly for those who tend to bottom out their keys. Additionally, the U4's muted sound profile makes it suitable for quieter environments, whether you're typing in an office or during late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and tactile feedback to ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more