HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Flaming Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the TTC Flaming Purple both present compelling options for typists and gamers alike, despite their distinct characteristics. The HMX 1989, famed for its deep and thocky feel, offers a satisfying typing experience that resonates well with those who appreciate tactile feedback and a robust sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple stands out with its lightweight, feathery nature and engaging auditory flair, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a swift and effortless keystroke, complemented by a subtly bassy audio signature. While both switches are categorized as linear, the 1989 provides a deeper and more resonant experience, whereas the Flaming Purple leans towards a smooth and silky touch with a hint of pop. Each switch caters to different preferences, making them appealing in their own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the TTC Flaming Purple switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes significantly to their sound profiles. The stiffness of polycarbonate aids in producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, ensuring that both switches deliver high clarity in audio feedback. This similarity in material allows users to enjoy comparable experiences when it comes to sound quality, especially when utilizing RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate housings enhances the visual experience, creating vibrant lighting effects that will shine through beautifully in both switches.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the HMX 1989 and TTC Flaming Purple switches are composed of nylon. This choice of material results in a sound profile that is deep and full due to nylon's softer characteristics. The nylon housing absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, thus producing a duller and rounder auditory experience. Both switches benefit from this design, as the nylon bottom housing helps to shape the bottom-out sound, grounding the sharper tones delivered by the polycarbonate top. This synergistic pairing ensures that, while the top and bottom housings produce distinct auditory characteristics, they harmoniously combine to offer a balanced overall sound profile.

When evaluating the complete performance of these switches, it’s important to recognize how the interaction between their respective materials influences the overall typing experience. While both the HMX 1989 and TTC Flaming Purple switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housings enhance the depth of sound differently. As the user engages with the switches, the clear, resonant tones from the polycarbonate top peak during release, while the softer, fuller sounds from the nylon bottom resonate during the actuation. Consequently, despite their similarities, the specific combination of materials in each switch allows for nuanced differences in feel and sound, particularly during key presses and releases.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, placing it in the light category. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons would likely find the Flaming Purple more appealing. On the other hand, the HMX 1989 offers a slightly heavier resistance, which might be preferable for users seeking a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, while both switches can deliver satisfactory performance, the TTC Flaming Purple is the lighter option, making it potentially better suited for those sensitive to actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, which typically appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced key press for a tactile feel. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to gamers and others who appreciate the quicker actuation this provides. While both switches are designed for smooth linear action, the shorter travel of the Flaming Purple promotes faster response times, making it ideal for rapid keystrokes. Conversely, the HMX 1989 may provide a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between them boils down to personal preference: if you favor rapid responsiveness, the TTC Flaming Purple may be more suitable, whereas those seeking a deeper, more substantial travel experience might prefer the HMX 1989.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its deep and thocky profile, offering a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying. This sound characteristic is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple leans towards a bassy and low-pitched sound signature, accompanied by a resonant quality that adds a pop to each keystroke. While both switches provide a deep sound experience, the Flaming Purple's poppy undertone introduces an engaging auditory flair, making it a noteworthy choice for those who value a distinctive yet clean sound. Ultimately, both switches would deliver a satisfying audio experience, though the specific flavor of that experience may vary.

When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is known for its weighty and authoritative keystrokes, providing a significant tactile response that some typists adore for achieving confident typing. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple excels in lightness and ease of activation, boasting a bottom-out force of just 47g, which allows for quick and effortless typing. The Flaming Purple is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, emphasizing a smooth and responsive feel that minimizes finger fatigue, making it particularly inviting for extended use. While both switches cater to different preferences in typing engagement, each offers a comfortable typing experience depending on whether one favors a heavier or lighter touch.

Overall, while the HMX 1989 and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches differ distinctly in their sound and feel characteristics, each provides unique benefits that appeal to various typists. The 1989's deep acoustics and substantial feel cater to those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience, while the Flaming Purple's resonant and feathery nature is perfect for users seeking lightness and speed. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory experience with a heavier typing feel or a light, airy touch with subtle auditory engagement. Either way, both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a slightly heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 offers a more pronounced tactile experience that many gamers and typists find satisfying, especially for those who enjoy a “thocky” sound signature that brings depth to your keystrokes. This switch is ideal for users who type at length and prefer a bit more feedback from their keys, as it engages the fingers just enough to enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards lighter switches and desire an effortless, speedy typing experience, the TTC Flaming Purple is your go-to choice with its 47-gram activation force. Its feathery touch makes it perfect for not just gaming but also extensive typing sessions in work or school environments, where comfort and efficiency are key. The deeper, bassy sound profile of the Flaming Purple adds a unique auditory flair that can make typing more enjoyable. Consider your priorities: if you value weightier feedback and resonant acoustics, lean towards the HMX 1989; if you prefer a light, smooth, and engaging experience, the TTC Flaming Purple will suit you well. In the end, both switches have their unique charm—it's all about what feels right to you.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Flaming Purple Linear

$8.30

$4.30 per 10

Learn more