HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary both offer unique advantages, appealing to different user preferences. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky profile, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who crave a tactile sensation with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary takes a different approach, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with its novel CAP structure that minimizes resistance and features an aerodynamic design for stability and minimal wobble. While the HMX 1989 caters to those who enjoy a more substantial key feel, the CAP Anniversary is perfect for users seeking buttery smoothness and polished performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, a material lauded for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. Both switches benefit from the translucent nature of polycarbonate, making them particularly suitable for RGB lighting setups, where the illumination can shine through the clear housing and create visually appealing effects. As a result, users of either switch can expect similar sound qualities when typing, stemming from the inherent properties of the polycarbonate in their designs.

When examining the bottom housing of both switches, they again exhibit similarity, with both featuring nylon as the chosen material. Nylon is recognized for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This quality stems from nylon's ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, both the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CAP Anniversary will deliver a satisfying typing experience, providing a distinct contrast to the sharper sound produced by their polycarbonate tops. The combination of the two materials creates a balanced auditory profile, allowing for crisp sounds during key release alongside fuller sounds when bottoming out.

It is essential to note that the interplay between the top and bottom housings intricately shapes the overall sound and feel of each switch. Since both the HMX 1989 and Gateron CAP Anniversary utilize nylon for the bottom and polycarbonate for the top, they yield similar results in terms of sound profile and typing sensation. The bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing largely affects the sound during key release. This consistent combination across both switches means users can expect a uniform auditory and tactile experience, enhancing both functionality and enjoyment whether they choose the HMX 1989 or the Gateron CAP Anniversary.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch that is more suitable for users who prefer less resistance for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy and providing a more substantial feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. As a result, users who prefer lighter switches would gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while those who favor a stronger push should consider the Gateron CAP Anniversary. Thus, if users are looking for a more comfortable typing experience with lesser fatigue, the HMX 1989 would be a better choice, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary would be advantageous for those who desire more tactile feedback in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed down, users will experience the same distance of key actuation with both switches, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and performance. Because they share the same travel distance, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of keystroke feel and responsiveness, regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is best known for its deep and thocky profile, which provides a satisfying auditory impact upon each keystroke. This could create a rich and resonant environment, especially when paired with compatible keycaps and a solid board, emphasizing the overall tone and depth of sound during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch's sound characteristics are not specifically mentioned, leaving an unknown aspect regarding how its auditory feedback compares to the HMX 1989. However, given that sound production in mechanical switches often resonates with user choice of board and keycaps, one might anticipate that while there could be some differences, a balanced and pleasant sound might still be achievable with either switch.

When focusing on the feel, the HMX 1989 switch is noted for its unique tactile response that is not explicitly described but can be inferred to offer a satisfying transition through its travel. Meanwhile, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features descriptors such as 'snappy,' 'creamy,' and 'polished,' contributing to a typing experience that is highly responsive and seamless. The CAP's innovative design, with its aerodynamic principles and specifically engineered stem, enhances the overall tactile sensation, making each keystroke feel smooth and effortless. This highlights a clear distinction in the feel, as the CAP Anniversary appears to prioritize delving into a more refined, buttery experience compared to the potentially more straightforward yet satisfying feel of the HMX 1989.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a deep, thocky sound that many users may find enjoyable, the auditory qualities of the Gateron CAP Anniversary remain unspecified. However, the tactile experience in the CAP Anniversary stands out with its snappy and creamy characteristics, promising a highly engaging typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches imparts different qualitative experiences, and while both can yield similar results in sound depending on their respective configurations, the feel will distinctly favor the Gateron CAP Anniversary's smooth and refined design.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch ultimately hinges on your unique preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a deeper, thocky sound profile, the HMX 1989 would likely be the better fit for you, especially in gaming scenarios where rapid key presses can be beneficial. Conversely, if you prefer a snappier response with a firm bottom out force and enjoy a silky, creamy typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary might suit you better, particularly in typing-intensive environments where smoothness can enhance productivity. Consider also the overall feel you desire—whether you want the more laid-back experience of the 1989 or the polished, responsive touch of the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so assess what aspects matter most to you before making your choice.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn more