HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can often boil down to tactile feedback and acoustic response. The HMX 1989, a linear switch renowned for its deep and thocky profile, offers a smooth keystroke that many gamers and typists favor for its uninterrupted actuation. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize quietness and minimal resistance during fast-paced gameplay or extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch shines with its lightweight actuation force of just 37g, providing a delightful tactile experience characterized by a satisfying crunch with each keypress. Its distinct auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience for clicky switch enthusiasts, ensuring that every strike is both precise and gratifying. While the HMX 1989 caters to users seeking fluidity and silence, the TTC Brother appeals to those who value feedback and sound in their typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the TTC Brother in both their top and bottom components are strikingly similar, sharing the same materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which facilitates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound due to its stiffness. This feature enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when keys are pressed, making both models particularly suitable for users who value a pronounced acoustics experience. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, ensuring that both switches can beautifully showcase customizable lighting. The identical use of polycarbonate in the top housing guarantees that users can expect similar results in terms of auditory feedback and visual aesthetics when choosing between the two switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both models employs nylon, a classic material renowned for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer texture of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, which results in a rounder, more muted auditory experience when the keys are bottomed out. Although both switches share this inferior material, the individual characteristics of the nylon allow the HMX 1989 and TTC Brother to create a unique feel and sound during key presses. Therefore, while the use of nylon in both cases leads to a mellower sound profile, the tactile feedback and acoustic impact experienced may differ slightly based on the unique design and construction of each switch.
Overall, the HMX 1989 and TTC Brother present a harmonious blend of materials that together create rich auditory experiences. By employing polycarbonate in the top housing, both switches effectively achieve a sharp and vibrant sound during key releases, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more subdued and resonant tone during key presses. Consequently, users can expect a balanced sound profile that combines both crispness and depth, with each model providing a sufficient acoustic experience depending on their specific design nuances. Ultimately, the shared materials pave the way for a comparable overall performance, making both switches appealing choices for enthusiasts in search of high-quality mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The HMX 1989 boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that offers a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to users looking for less resistance during typing. However, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, limiting our ability to fully compare this aspect. Consequently, if both switches were tested under similar conditions, users could expect the TTC Brother to feel lighter overall due to its lower actuation force, while the HMX 1989 would provide a more substantial tactile feedback experience because of its higher forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch measures at 4 mm, while the TTC Brother clicky switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the HMX 1989 offers a more significant depth when pressed, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile response. In contrast, the Brother's 3.5 mm travel distance might be preferable for gamers or individuals seeking quicker responsiveness and faster actuation times. Although both switches have their unique advantages, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference: the HMX 1989 provides a heftier feel, while the TTC Brother offers a snappier typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 1989 linear switch offers a distinct absence of auditory feedback typical of linear switches, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is valued. However, detailed specifics about its sound profile are not provided. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch produces a pronounced, crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This satisfying click not only enhances the auditory experience but also signifies the definitive actuation of each keypress, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a tactile and auditory confirmation of their inputs.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by its smooth, uninterrupted key travel, which is a hallmark of linear switches, providing a consistent and fluid typing experience without any tactile bumps to disrupt the flow. Conversely, the TTC Brother features an easy-to-press design with a lightweight actuation force of just 37g, allowing for effortless key presses. It includes a stepped tactile bump that provides clear feedback during typing, which can be less intense than hypertactile switches. This mild feedback, along with its responsiveness, reduces finger fatigue and contributes to a comfortable typing experience, especially during extended use.
In conclusion, while both switches cater to different preferences, they excel in their respective categories. The HMX 1989 linear switch is suited for users who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office settings or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch resonates with those who enjoy the tactile and auditory feedback of a clicky switch, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who thrive on that satisfying actuation click. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, allowing users to choose between subtlety or pronounced feedback based on their personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you thrive on smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and prefer a more subdued auditory experience, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams allows for a comfortable typing experience without inducing excessive strain, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or extended typing tasks. On the other hand, if you crave a lively and tactile feedback with a delightful auditory click, the TTC Brother clicky switch might be more suited to your taste. With its lightweight actuation of only 37 grams and a satisfying crunchy sound, it assures an engaging and responsive typing experience that can keep you energized during longer usage. In essence, if you seek a quiet, thocky feel that remains discreet yet satisfying, lean toward the HMX 1989; conversely, if a fun, clicky, and slightly more tactile experience is what you desire, you'll likely find joy in the TTC Brother switch. Your choice should reflect not only your typing style but also the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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