HMX Game1989 vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both stand out as appealing linear options, each with its unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, offers a satisfying auditory feedback that many gamers and typists find appealing, particularly when looking for a robust and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is celebrated for its budget-friendly pricing and delightful combination of a poppy, clacky sound with a smooth feel that delivers a vibrant auditory experience while maintaining a creamy tactile touch. While the 1989 switches may cater to enthusiasts seeking depth and richness, the Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for those who desire an energetic typing experience without breaking the bank. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro share a similarity in their choice of housing materials. Both models utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its stiffer nature, polycarbonate enhances the resonant qualities of the switch, allowing the sound to travel clearly and distinctly. Aesthetically, the translucence of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for designs that incorporate RGB lighting, ensuring that the lighting effects shine through vividly. As both switches leverage this same material, users can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing keys, making either option suitable for users seeking that bright sound profile.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches introduces differentiation in terms of sound quality. The HMX 1989 is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture, which absorbs sound more readily than the harder materials employed in other switch designs. Consequently, both models will offer a more rounded bottom-out sound experience, making them ideal for users who prefer a mellow auditory environment when typing. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, this results in a cohesive sound character that emphasizes depth and richness.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials influences the overall sound profile of each switch. While the polycarbonate top housing provides a pronounced upper register and crispness when releasing keys, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the depth and warmth felt with each key press. Users of either switch are likely to find that the specific materials enhance their typing experience in complementary ways, creating a well-rounded auditory lineup. Each model leverages the benefits of both housing materials effectively to achieve tailored sound characteristics, ensuring that the HMX 1989 and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro satisfy a range of user preferences, from vibrant key release sounds to comforting bottom-out tones.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. This means that the HMX 1989 would likely be more comfortable for users seeking a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would appeal to those who prefer a firmer push for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the HMX 1989 is the lighter option, making it suitable for prolonged use, whereas the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is heavier, providing a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro measures just 3.3 mm. This makes the HMX 1989 the longer switch, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress, offering a more traditional feel often regarded as providing deeper feedback. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Akko switch may be favored by gamers or users looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for key depth and 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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 is best known for its deep and thocky auditory profile, which creates an immersive experience during typing or gaming. This substantial sound characteristic provides a comforting depth, ideal for users who appreciate a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches produce a poppy and clacky sound, offering a livelier and more vibrant auditory experience. While the 1989 delivers a rich thockiness, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro strikes a balance between crispness and warmth. It's worth noting that sound perception can vary widely based on the keyboard build, including the choice of material in the board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is not explicitly described, but its thocky sound suggests a substantial and perhaps somewhat tactile experience, which can provide satisfying feedback during use. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches excel in providing an effortlessly smooth typing experience. They are easy to press, requiring minimal force to actuate the keys, which can significantly reduce finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Their characteristics of being feathery, bouncy, and snappy contribute to an engaging typing experience, while the polished nature of the switch ensures a refined feel with smooth key travel.
Overall, while the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a deeper auditory satisfaction with its thocky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more vibrant and lively auditory profile, complementing its user-friendly tactile experience. When selecting between these two switches, consider your sound preference and typing feel: if you lean towards a more resonant, substantial feel, the 1989 may be your ideal choice. If you're looking for a lively typing experience with a smooth and light touch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro could be the better option. Both switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you value a medium-light actuation with a strong emphasis on auditory feedback, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice. Its 53-gram bottom-out force makes it comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions while providing a distinctive thocky sound and feel that is perfect for those who appreciate deeper acoustics and a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that is budget-friendly yet offers a delightful combination of smoothness and responsive sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be better suited to your tastes. With a 60-gram bottom-out force, it provides slightly more resistance, which may enhance your tactile engagement, especially if you enjoy a bouncy and snappy feedback during gameplay or typing. Additionally, its easy-to-press nature and lively auditory profile make it a great option if you want a more vibrant and lively experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects you prioritize—be it sound, actuation force, or overall typing feel—as you make your decision between these two notable switches.
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