HMX 1989 vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro both offer unique benefits tailored to different user preferences. The HMX 1989 switch is renowned for its deep and thocky profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a rich, full sound and satisfying key feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is geared towards budget-conscious users, delivering a delightful combination of a poppy, clacky sound with remarkable smoothness that enhances the typing experience without breaking the bank. While both switches fall under the linear category, appealing to those who favor a frictionless actuation, they cater to distinct acoustic preferences and tactile experiences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to similar acoustic characteristics in both switches. The properties of polycarbonate contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which many users appreciate for its clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing for gamers and typists who favor vibrant aesthetics. This commonality in material not only creates a corresponding auditory experience but also enhances the visual experience when lighting effects are in play.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is constructed from nylon. This material is known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Due to nylon’s ability to absorb sound, it imparts a rounder and mushier feel to key presses, differing significantly from the crispness of polycarbonate. This distinction means that while both switches share a similar top housing sound profile due to the polycarbonate, the sound and feel when bottoming out will differ significantly, thanks to the individual contributions of the nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the interplay of materials between the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro creates distinct yet complementary sound experiences. While both switches will exhibit clear and resonant sounds when keys are released due to their polycarbonate tops, the nylon bottoms will provide a contrasting deep and rich tone when keys are pressed. This combination underscores the importance of housing materials in determining the overall acoustic profile of a switch, allowing both models to cater to different preferences while maintaining specific auditory qualities.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences in typing experience. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who favor a medium-light switch that allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a robust typing experience. Overall, while the HMX 1989 is suitable for those who prioritize comfort and ease during long periods of use, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for individuals seeking a firmer response from their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is clear that they differ notably. The HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences for deeper keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, catering to those who favor a quicker response time, particularly in gaming scenarios. This difference suggests that if you are looking for a more pronounced depth in your key presses, the HMX 1989 would be the better option. Conversely, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro's shorter travel distance would be more appealing. Thus, the HMX 1989 is the longer switch while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known for its deep, thocky profile, which produces a rich, bass-heavy acoustics that resonates well within the mechanical keyboard community. This makes it particularly appealing for users who appreciate a robust sound presence when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are characterized by a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound that offers a more pronounced typing experience. This difference in sonic qualities can affect how each switch complements the overall feel of a keyboard setup, with the 1989 providing a warmer undertone while the Cream Black Pro adds a brighter tonality.
When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX 1989 excels in delivering a linear typing experience that's deep and weighted, often resulting in a more cushioned downstroke. This can provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing rhythm for those who prefer a heavier keypress. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches offer a blend of smoothness and elasticity, described as "creamy" with a bouncy feel that makes typing more dynamic. The responsive nature of the V3s also makes them feel snappy, enhancing the overall typing experience with a lively feedback that encourages quick keystrokes and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switches bring unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard landscape. The 1989 offers a deep, thocky sound and a satisfying typing feel that appeals to those who enjoy a heavier keypress, while the V3 Cream Black Pro excels in offering a bright, clacky sound with a smooth, bouncy feel that promotes speed and responsiveness. Depending on individual preferences, each switch presents compelling reasons for selection, offering experiences that can align closely with your desired mechanical keyboard characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you're seeking and the activities you'll primarily engage in. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a thocky and deep sound profile that enhances both gaming and typing experiences, the HMX 1989 is your best bet. Its feedback is designed to deliver a richer auditory experience, making it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more immersive feel while typing. On the other hand, if you are budget-minded and desire a switch that offers a unique combination of poppy, high-pitched sounds and a creamy, bouncy typing feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is the right choice. This switch shines for those who enjoy a snappy response and smooth keystrokes, making it an excellent option for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions where feedback and ease of use are crucial. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and performance, ensuring that you select a switch that enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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