HMX EVA vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and HMX Vintage Citrus offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. The HMX EVA, inspired by the striking colors of Evangelion Unit-01, stands out with its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing experience, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize a satisfying feel during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus is engineered specifically for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of 1mm that enhances rapid-fire keyboard inputs, along with a bright, clacky sound profile that adds an auditory thrill to gameplay. While both switches are linear in nature, their differing acoustic properties and actuation responses lend themselves to unique user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and the HMX Vintage Citrus share identical housing materials in both their top and bottom components, using nylon throughout. This standardization results in a consistent tactile experience and sound profile across both switches. Typing on switches made from nylon elicits a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the material's inherent softness. The ability of nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics contributes to a duller, rounder acoustic signature, leading to a similar auditory experience whether one opts for the EVA or the Vintage Citrus.
When we delve into the characteristics of the switches, the similarities in their nylon housings mean that users will encounter a uniformity in both the feel and sound produced by each switch. The impact of the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback during key presses. Since both switches utilize the same nylon material for their bottom housings, the sound produced when the key bottoms out will similarly resonate with the notable characteristics of a softer material, enhancing the overall typing experience.
The top housing, while also nylon, plays a crucial role in the sound profile during the release of a key. With both the EVA and Vintage Citrus employing nylon in their top housings, the acoustic properties remain consistent, ensuring a satisfying auditory feedback upon key release, much like that of the bottom-out sound. Consequently, users can expect an overall lighter sound signature and greater sound absorbency in both switches, making them ideal for those who favor a more muted typing experience while retaining excellent sound quality. In essence, the shared nylon material in both switch variants guarantees a harmonized blend of tactile and acoustic performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences emerge that can influence typing experience. The EVA switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial feel that may be favored by those who appreciate a stronger push. As such, the EVA is the lighter option overall, while the Vintage Citrus is the heavier alternative. This difference in actuation forces means that the EVA is likely to induce less fatigue during longer usage, whereas the Vintage Citrus might appeal to users who prefer a firmer feedback upon keystroke activation.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3 mm. This difference highlights a clear distinction in feel and response; the EVA switch offers a more substantial depth that caters to those who enjoy a heartier keystroke, while the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, aligns better with gamers and users seeking rapid response times. If you prioritize responsiveness and a quicker actuation, the Vintage Citrus would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if a more deliberate typing experience is what you seek, the EVA switch may be more to your liking. Overall, the EVA provides a more pronounced travel experience, whereas the Vintage Citrus offers a more nimble feel.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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
The HMX EVA switch features a resonant sound signature that adds a unique auditory quality to your typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch boasts a bright, clacky sound profile that emphasizes rapid feedback, making it particularly appealing for gamers who require auditory cues for fast inputs. While both switches produce distinct sound characteristics, the overall auditory experience can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps, ensuring that each switch can present a different tone depending on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the EVA is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that can enhance typing comfort over extended sessions. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch provides a remarkably smooth push feel accompanied by an exceptionally low actuation force of 1mm, catering specifically to the demands of fast-paced gaming. Despite differing target user bases, both switches strive to offer a satisfying tactile experience, albeit with different approaches to engagement.
In summary, the HMX EVA and Vintage Citrus switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The EVA offers a resonant auditory experience paired with a smooth typing sensation, ideal for users who enjoy a more relaxed typing style. Meanwhile, the Vintage Citrus switch delivers a bright, clacky sound along with a light actuation force, perfect for gamers seeking rapid responsiveness. Ultimately, while both switches provide unique characteristics, they are designed to deliver satisfying performance tailored to their respective audiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch largely comes down to your specific preferences and use cases. If you prefer a lighter touch and a silky smooth typing experience, along with a unique sound profile that resonates beautifully, the HMX EVA would be a fantastic choice. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams means it's easier on the fingers, making it well-suited for typing or general usage where comfort is essential. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that excels in gaming scenarios, the HMX Vintage Citrus is tailored for you. With its slightly higher bottom-out force of 53 grams and a quick 1mm actuation, this switch allows for rapid-fire inputs, which is crucial in fast-paced gaming environments. The bright and clacky sound enhances the gaming experience, providing both auditory feedback and satisfaction. Hence, your choice between the two switches should align with whether you prioritize a softer, more enjoyable typing experience (HMX EVA) or a faster, more responsive gaming performance (HMX Vintage Citrus).
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