HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron CM

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CM, both of which fall under the linear switch category but differ significantly in their acoustic and tactile experiences. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky characteristics, offers a distinct sound signature that many users appreciate for its satisfying auditory feedback during gaming or typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron CM switches break the mold with their full nylon housing, delivering a rich, bassy sound that is complemented by an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring a remarkably smooth typing feel. The unique dual-staged spring in the CM switches adds a bouncy quality to each keystroke, promoting a fluid typing experience that feels effortless. While the HMX 1989 excels in producing a deep, resonant sound, the Gateron CM impresses with its polished design and buttery smooth actuation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Gateron CM Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CM, a clear distinction arises in their top housing compositions. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by its crisper acoustics. This is largely due to the material's rigidity, which enhances resonance and clarity, particularly beneficial for users who appreciate a pronounced sound in their typing experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an ideal choice for showcasing RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination that complements the aesthetics of a keyboard setup. In contrast, the Gateron CM's top housing is crafted from nylon, a softer plastic that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. This difference in material will influence the auditory feedback each switch delivers during use.

Examining the bottom housing of both switches reveals a shared choice of nylon, meaning that both the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CM will provide similar characteristics in terms of sound dampening and feel at the bottom-out point. The nylon bottom housing in the HMX 1989, much like in the Gateron CM, contributes to a rounder sound profile that mitigates harsh sounds as the keys are pressed down. This design choice suggests that while the overall acoustic profile when typing can be deeper and more muted due to the softness of nylon, the critical factor of the bottom-out sound will feel consistent across both switches. Consequently, users can expect a uniform typing experience in this regard, regardless of the differences present in their top housing materials.

The interplay between the two types of housing within each switch also highlights how the unique properties of each material affect the overall typing experience. In the HMX 1989, the distinct combination of a crisp polycarbonate top housing with a soft nylon bottom creates a balanced sound profile, where higher frequencies resonate during key release while lower frequencies are absorbed during the press. Conversely, the Gateron CM's uniform use of nylon for both top and bottom housing results in a more uniform auditory and tactile feedback, emphasizing a smoother feel with sound characteristics that conform to its deeper tonal qualities. This contrast not only illustrates how different materials impact the sound and feel of each switch but also underscores how various combinations can cater to diverse preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Gateron CM linear switch, notable differences can be seen in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that is particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the Gateron CM presents a heftier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier resistance may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience that some users prefer. Therefore, while the 1989 is the lighter switch, offering ease of use for prolonged periods, the Gateron CM caters to those who appreciate a stronger push feel, appealing to a different user base altogether. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing comfort and force feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, the differences are clear. The HMX 1989 boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Gateron CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. For those who favor a more traditional typing experience with noticeable depth and feedback, the HMX 1989 would be the ideal choice. Conversely, the Gateron CM, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers and users who prefer quicker, more responsive keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the HMX 1989's longer travel distance lends itself to a more substantial feel, whereas the Gateron CM's shorter travel can enhance speed and efficiency.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known to produce a deep, thocky tone, creating a satisfying auditory feedback often likened to a gentle thud or a soft knock. This sound profile not only enhances the tactile experience but also contributes to an immersive typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch boasts a bassy and rich sound signature, also characterized by its deep and low-pitched attributes. This results in a resonance that is fuller and more pronounced, allowing for a deeper auditory experience with every keystroke. Both switches focus on delivering a solid auditory presence, but the CM's nylon housing enhances the overall richness of sound compared to the already impressive acoustic qualities of the 1989.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 offers a unique typing sensation that remains somewhat unspecified, leaving room for intrigue regarding its tactile characteristics. Conversely, the Gateron CM linear switch excels in the feel department, being described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. Each of these descriptors paints a picture of an exceptionally smooth typing experience, as if gliding effortlessly across the keys. The seamless keystroke offered by the CM, aided by its impeccable factory lubrication, ensures reduced friction and a refined journey with each press. This discrepancy highlights the smooth tactile journey that the CM offers, while the tactile qualities of the 1989 remain open to interpretation.

In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Gateron CM linear switches bring forward an impressive auditory experience, with the 1989 featuring a thocky sound and the CM a bassy richness. The CM shines in terms of typing feel, presenting a lineup of qualities that emphasize smoothness and fluidity, while the 1989's feel remains less defined but likely offers a satisfying experience nonetheless. For those exploring options in linear switches, either choice presents a strong case for their respective auditory and tactile experiences. Ultimately, the CM may provide a more polished and rich typing journey, while the 1989 adds a unique depth that could intrigue enthusiasts who prioritize sound.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the type of activities you'll be engaging in with your keyboard. If you prioritize a lighter, thocky switch with a rich, resonant sound profile that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, the HMX 1989 is likely your best bet. This switch is especially suited for users who enjoy gaming, as its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams allows for rapid key presses without excessive finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, the Gateron CM would be the ideal choice for you. The CM's full nylon housing and expertly lubed internals provide a buttery, seamless glide that enhances the enjoyment of long typing sessions, making it perfect for writers or those who spend considerable time on their keyboards. With its deep, bassy sound signature, the CM caters well to users who appreciate a rich auditory experience, complementing the smooth tactile feel. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your needs for comfort, sound quality, and the type of tasks you plan to tackle with your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more