HMX 1989 vs. Bsun Cliff

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing and gaming needs, the choice can often boil down to personal preference and the feel of the switch itself. The HMX 1989, recognized as the deepest and most thocky switch in the HMX Film series, is a linear switch that offers a smooth keypress experience without tactile feedback, making it perfect for those who prefer a quiet and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch known for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, provides a responsive feedback sensation with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more interactive and engaging typing experience. While the HMX 1989 excels in its smoothness and reduced noise, the Bsun Cliff stands out for its tactile responsiveness and auditory satisfaction. 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 1989 Linear

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Bsun Cliff both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a brighter and crisper sound profile when typing. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, enhances the resonance of sound produced by the switches. Both switches, featuring a clear polycarbonate top housing, benefit from the material's translucency, making them ideal for RGB lighting effects. This shared characteristic ensures that users will experience a sharper, higher-pitched auditory response, regardless of which switch is employed. The structure of these polycarbonate housings allows for similar acoustic results, as they are both engineered to emphasize clarity and high-frequency sounds.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Cliff is made from nylon, a classic material in switch construction known for its sound-dampening qualities. Nylon is inherently softer than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed. Its ability to absorb sound leads to a rounder and less piercing auditory experience, offering a pleasing contrast to the sharper sound emitted from the polycarbonate top housing. This synergy between the two types of housings results in a well-balanced acoustic signature, where the nylon bottom mitigates the brightness from the polycarbonate top, creating a rounded feel and sound when actuating the keys.

Together, the modalities of these materials demonstrate how the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Cliff align in achieving a cohesive auditory experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon allows for a distinct sound hierarchy, where the top housing contributes a crisp tone while the bottom adds depth. Even with the differences in material properties, the complementary nature of polycarbonate and nylon results in a satisfying typing experience, marrying clarity with warmth. Users will find that both switches deliver a unique yet harmonized performance, whether they are typing for work or gaming, showcasing the versatility and expertise in their design.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a softer touch and extended typing sessions. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Cliff, while those desiring a more substantial typing experience would find the HMX 1989 preferable due to its heavier forces. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces offer distinct tactile experiences, catering to varying user preferences in typing feel and endurance.

Travel distance

The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm can affect the typing experience significantly; those who favor a more pronounced key press may find the 1989 to be more satisfying due to its greater depth. In contrast, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Cliff switch caters to those who prefer a swifter response time, which is particularly appealing for gamers seeking rapid key activation. Consequently, if responsiveness is your priority, the shorter travel distance of the Cliff switch would be advantageous, while the HMX 1989 would appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding key depth versus quick reaction times.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky acoustic profile, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. This rich sound can add depth to every keystroke, making it particularly satisfying during gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility accompanied by a crisp sound signature. The clarity of the sound can make each keystroke feel more decisive and engaging, contributing to an active typing environment. Both switches can produce unique auditory experiences, but ultimately, the exact sound may vary based on your keyboard board and keycap choices.

In terms of feel, users can expect the 1989 linear switch to provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, allowing for fluid movement across the keyboard. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate rapid typing or gaming without the sensation of bumps throughout the travel distance of the keys. Conversely, the Cliff tactile switch incorporates a noticeable tactile bump at the actuation point, which offers clear feedback to the user when a key has been actuated. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience for users who prefer a more defined feel while typing.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch emphasizes a deep, thocky sound and a smooth typing experience, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch delivers a crisp sound and a noticeable tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences; the choice between them will largely depend on whether you prioritize a linear feel with a rich acoustic presence or a tactile sensation with a clear auditory response. When selecting a switch, consider how your choice of keyboard and keycaps may influence the overall sound and feel, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and use case. If you favor a deeper, thocky sound and a somewhat heavier key feel, the HMX 1989 with its 53-gram bottom out force would be ideal for you, particularly if you enjoy gaming or tasks that benefit from a smooth keystroke without the interruption of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and appreciate the sensory feedback of a tactile bump to enhance your typing experience, the Bsun Cliff switch—offering a 45-gram actuation force and a crisp sound profile—would be more suitable, especially for general typing or office work where that quick responsiveness can improve comfort and efficiency. Ultimately, think about the sound and feel you desire, as well as how you'll be using your keyboard, to make the most informed choice.

Mentioned in this article

HMX 1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn more