HMX EVA vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile options can significantly affect your typing experience. The HMX EVA, a linear switch inspired by the iconic colors of the Evangelion Unit-01, offers a silky smooth typing feel with a resonant sound signature that appeals to those who favor a consistent keystroke without tactile feedback. Its smoothness makes it a great choice for gamers seeking rapid key presses or typists who prefer minimal interruption. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds with its thoughtfully engineered design that provides a pronounced tactile bump alongside a refined, deep “thock” sound when bottoming out. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a satisfying feedback mechanism while also valuing an acoustically pleasing experience. Although the EVA might cater to those seeking smoothness and speed, the U4Tx appeals to tactile enthusiasts who enjoy a luxurious typing rhythm. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX EVA and the Gazzew U4Tx, both switches utilize nylon and a proprietary plastic blend, respectively, for their top and bottom housings. The HMX EVA employs traditional nylon for both the top and bottom housing, noted for its capacity to produce a full, deep sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound and mitigates harshness, resulting in a more rounded acoustic experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx employs its proprietary "boba plastic" blend for both the top and bottom housing, which is described to offer similar acoustics. This material also boasts softness, contributing to a deep and rich sound profile akin to nylon, albeit potentially with slight variations in tonal qualities due to its unique formulation.

Despite the differences in material composition—nylon versus a proprietary blend—both the HMX EVA and the Gazzew U4Tx are engineered to achieve similar auditory outcomes. The impact of the housing materials on sound profiles is significant, as the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a critical role in the release sound. Consequently, even though the materials differ, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing on either switch. The integration of soft materials in both cases tends to smooth out sound frequencies, leading to a satisfying acoustic response during both keystroke and release.

In summary, while the HMX EVA utilizes classic nylon for its switch housing, the Gazzew U4Tx leverages an innovative proprietary blend to achieve a comparable sound profile. The shared emphasis on soft materials allows both switches to deliver a similar typing feel and auditory experience. Therefore, regardless of the material origins, enthusiasts may find that both switches satisfy their desires for a deeper, more rounded typing acoustics, highlighting how different materials can ultimately converge to produce similar results in performance and user satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct user experiences. The EVA features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a lightweight typing experience for extended periods. In stark contrast, the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown, but it carries a significantly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offering a more substantial tactile feedback for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Consequently, while the EVA is the lighter option suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the U4Tx provides a heftier experience, appealing to users who favor a firmer keypress. This contrast highlights the balance between comfort and feedback preferences in keyboard switches.

Travel distance

Both the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same length of movement from the top to the bottom, resulting in similar tactile feedback during use. Since both switches share this travel distance, it can be concluded that their performance in terms of key travel will yield comparable results, providing a consistent experience for those who favor 3.6 mm travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, the EVA is known for its resonant sound signature that adds a unique auditory layer to typing, likely leading to a more engaging experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches are ingeniously crafted to provide a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out. They also exhibit a whisper-quiet stealth quality at the top of the stroke. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences—one leaning more towards resonance and the other favoring a deep, muted sound—individual experiences can vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the EVA is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses without the interruption of tactile feedback. Conversely, the U4Tx switches stand out with their sharp tactile bump, which delivers a distinct and noticeable feedback on each key press. This tactile feedback is renowned for its intensity, providing a luxurious typing experience grounded in the luxurious interaction of the keys. Consequently, while the EVA prioritizes smoothness, the U4Tx emphasizes a pronounced tactility, making them fundamentally different in feel.

In summary, the HMX EVA linear switch boasts a resonant sound and a smooth typing feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a fluid typing experience with an engaging auditory backdrop. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a clean and deep sound along with a sharp tactile feedback that provides a satisfying typing experience, especially for those who revel in the pronounced sensations of key presses. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, as they cater to distinctly different styles of mechanical keyboard interaction.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter key feel that glides smoothly, the HMX EVA is an excellent option, especially if you’re drawn to a sound profile characterized by its resonant qualities. This is particularly beneficial for a more delicate typing experience, making the EVA ideal for prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming where you value a seamless feedback without excessive force. On the other hand, if you desire a more pronounced tactile experience with a noticeable bump, the Gazzew U4Tx is the way to go. The U4Tx's medium actuation force and sharp tactile feedback provide a satisfying sensation for typists who appreciate a tactile response, making it suitable for both typing and gaming, where accuracy and precision are paramount. In terms of sound, if you want something bassy and deep, the EVA might appeal to you, whereas the U4Tx, with its muted and refined acoustics, is perfect if you aim for a quieter environment without compromising on that tactile feel. Thus, consider what aspects are most important for your typing style and environment, and you’ll find the switch that best fits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more