HMX Game1989 vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Durock Daybreak each offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound profile, provides a satisfying auditory experience that many gamers and typists appreciate for its character and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switches boast a solid 67g actuation force, appealing to those who favor a heftier, more substantial typing feel. This weight, combined with their whisper-quiet operation, makes them an ideal choice for settings where noise control is paramount, such as shared workspaces. While both switches are linear in design, their individual characteristics—one prioritizing sound and feel, and the other focusing on a muted, intense experience—allow users to align their choice with personal typing style and environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Durock Daybreak keyboards both feature polycarbonate top housings, which share a number of sonic and aesthetic characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sound profile that is sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp, attributable to the material’s inherent stiffness. This stiffness not only enhances clarity but also allows for a resonant sound that is particularly appealing to users who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience when typing. Moreover, both keyboards utilize the translucency of polycarbonate to complement RGB lighting, making the visual appeal of the switches more pronounced. Given these similarities in top housing material, users can expect a comparable auditory performance and aesthetic enhancement across both keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two keyboards is made from nylon, which serves a different purpose in the overall sound profile of the switches. While the polycarbonate tops emphasize clarity and brightness, the nylon bottoms introduce a contrasting depth to the auditory experience. Being a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This unique interplay of materials means that while both keyboards provide a crisp sound when keys are released due to the polycarbonate, the sound produced during key presses will differ significantly, with the nylon offering a more dulled and rounded quality. This combination creates a harmonious balance between brightness and warmth in the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the HMX 1989 and Durock Daybreak keyboards present a unified sonic landscape where the top housing of polycarbonate delivers clarity and the nylon bottom absorbs excess sound for depth. Users can anticipate a distinctive playing experience that showcases the refined characteristics of both materials. While the polycarbonate provides a resonant, immersive upper range, the nylon effectively grounds that experience with its rich lower tones. As such, despite differing materials for the top and bottom housings, the careful selection of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that users will enjoy a cohesive and richly textured sound profile when typing on either switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, providing less strain over time. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch does not have a specified actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly in that aspect; however, its bottom out force is a heavier 67 grams, indicating that it requires more effort to press down fully compared to the HMX 1989's 53 grams. As a result, the Daybreak’s heavier bottom out might provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Thus, users seeking a lighter feel should lean towards the HMX 1989, while those who appreciate a heavier, more pronounced push should consider the Daybreak switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, the HMX 1989 stands out with a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Durock Daybreak offers a shorter distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the HMX 1989 the longer option, providing a more traditional experience that some users may prefer for its deeper feel and tactile feedback during key presses. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak, with its shorter 3.8 mm travel, caters to those who appreciate quicker actuation, making it ideal for gamers seeking rapid response times. For individuals who value a more robust typing experience, the extra 0.2 mm of depth in the HMX 1989 may enhance overall satisfaction, while those who lean towards a snappier, more responsive feel will find the Daybreak more appealing. Ultimately, the choice hinges on personal preference for travel distance, with both switches capable of delivering distinct typing experiences based on individual needs.
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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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
The sound profile of the HMX 1989 linear switch is best characterized by its thocky nature, which provides a deeper and more resonant audio feedback compared to many other linear switches. This rich sound makes the 1989 a satisfying choice for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is designed for quieter operation, producing a muted sound that's notably low-pitched. This subtle, bass-heavy auditory signature minimizes the typical mechanical clickiness to provide a more subdued typing experience, making the Daybreak an appealing option for those in shared spaces who wish to maintain a quieter environment.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 is highlighted by its deep and thocky characteristics, which contribute to a uniquely engaging typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy for both gaming and typing tasks. Although specific details about the feel of the 1989 are not mentioned, its design suggests a satisfying key travel across the board. On the other hand, the Daybreak switch is noted for its polished finish, which enhances the overall smoothness of the keystroke. The combination of its heavier actuation force and reduced friction can lead to a refined and responsive typing experience, perfectly catering to users who prefer a more substantial touch.
In summary, while both the HMX 1989 and Durock Daybreak linear switches cater to different preferences, their qualities can greatly influence the typing experience. The thocky sound of the 1989 offers a more resonant feedback that can enhance the enjoyment for those who appreciate auditory cues. Meanwhile, the quieter, low-pitched sound of the Daybreak allows for discreet use in more professional settings. As for feel, the Daybreak’s polished smoothness promises a sleek experience, contrasting with the unspecified but engaging nature of the 1989’s keystroke. Both switches bring their own unique strengths to the table, making them suitable choices depending on the user's desired experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing or gaming environment. If you prefer a lighter actuation force for quick, agile typing and enjoy a thocky feel, the HMX 1989 switch, with its medium-light 53g bottom-out force, could be your ideal option, especially for gaming where rapid key presses are crucial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a heftier typing experience and prefer a more muted sound profile for office settings or shared spaces, the Daybreak's medium-heavy 67g bottom-out force offers a polished, smooth feel that ensures understated performance without the typical mechanical keyboard noise. Assess the type of activities you'll engage in, whether it's typing, gaming, or working in a quiet environment, and choose the switch that aligns with your tactile and auditory preferences.
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