HMX 1989 vs. KTT Glimp

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your overall typing experience. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound and feel, making it an ideal option for those who appreciate a more solid and resonant keystroke during intense gaming or typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Glimp provides a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance that appeals to users who desire a more substantial typing experience without the fatigue of a heavier switch. While the Glimp's tactile feedback and clacky sound profile can add a lively element to your typing, the HMX 1989 emphasizes a quieter yet equally satisfying keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the 1989 focusing on depth and thock, while the Glimp prioritizes a responsive and enjoyable auditory experience. 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 1989 Linear

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX 1989 and the KTT Glimp incorporate polycarbonate for their top housings, which translates to a similar auditory experience when typing. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity of each keystroke. The use of polycarbonate, known for its translucency, also plays a vital role in RGB compatibility, allowing the glow of backlighting to penetrate the switch. Thus, both switches not only achieve comparable acoustic characteristics but also a visually appealing aesthetic when enhanced with RGB lighting.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a well-regarded material in the keyboard community known for its sound absorption properties. Nylon's softer nature results in a deeper, fuller sound profile as it dampens vibrations effectively, leading to a more rounded auditory experience. This notable difference in housing material affects the overall sound signature; while the polycarbonate top enhances the brightness of the sound during typist release, the nylon bottom serves to soften the impact and resonance when a key is pressed down. Together, they create a harmonious balance that contributes to the unique typing experience of each switch.

Ultimately, while both the HMX 1989 and the KTT Glimp share similarities in their top housing material, their combined characteristics result from the interplay between the tops' clarity and the bottoms' depth. The polycarbonate top delivers a crisp auditory response that pairs well with the dulcet tones produced by the nylon bottom, leading to a differentiated sound profile when typing. Both configurations ensure that users enjoy a typing experience marked by clarity, depth, and a visually striking appearance, albeit influenced by the unique attributes of each housing type. This blend of materials underscores a well-considered design philosophy common among modern mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, both demonstrate medium-light characteristics with their actuation and bottom-out forces. The HMX 1989 requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the KTT Glimp has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches share the same bottom-out force of 53 grams, ensuring that users will experience a similar resistance when fully depressing the key. This means that while the KTT Glimp offers a lighter initial push, both switches provide equivalent resistance at the bottom end, which could enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. If you prefer a lighter feel for prolonged use, the KTT Glimp is the better option, whereas those who enjoy a firmer push may gravitate towards the HMX 1989, albeit the difference is minimal. Overall, both switches are suitable for a variety of typing preferences, balancing performance and comfort.

Travel distance

The HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making their performance in terms of key travel identical. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same distance, resulting in a uniform feel across both options. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness, allowing for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known for its deep and thocky profile, which delivers a rich, bassy tone that resonates well during typing. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience that still maintains a robust feel. In contrast, the KTT Glimp switch is characterized by its clacky and neutral sound profiles. The clacky aspect introduces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be quite lively, while the neutral quality offers a more balanced acoustic experience suitable for various environments. Depending on the keyboard and keycap selection, users of either switch may enjoy distinctly different auditory feedback, but the Glimp’s sound tends to be brighter and more pronounced.

When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX 1989 is recognized for its profound tactile feedback and substantial engagement, which encourages users to press down firmly while typing. Unfortunately, specific details about its overall feel remain unknown. The KTT Glimp switch stands out with its creamy and mild characteristics, providing a smooth and buttery experience that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This mild sensation is approachable for a wide range of users and promotes a comfortable typing experience. While both switches are linear, the Glimp’s smoother action may appeal to those who favor a more refined typing experience.

Overall, users can expect different auditory and tactile experiences from the HMX 1989 and the KTT Glimp linear switches. The HMX 1989 offers a deep, thocky sound with a profound tactile feel, while the KTT Glimp brings a lively clacky auditory profile combined with a creamy, smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer a more robust sound and feel or a lighter, more responsive experience. Either way, you’re likely to enjoy satisfying results tailored to your typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you are someone who enjoys a deeper, more thocky typing experience that resonates with a solid build quality, the HMX 1989 is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams provides just enough resistance for a satisfying keystroke without being overly taxing on your fingers, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. However, if you prefer a smooth and creamy experience where each keystroke feels effortless and luxurious, you might lean towards the KTT Glimp switch. With a similar bottom-out force, its creamy texture is complemented by a fairly clacky sound that adds a fun auditory element to your typing. In summary, if you value a unique sound and a tactile response, go for the KTT Glimp; otherwise, if you desire that deeper resonance and a more thocky feel, the HMX 1989 is your pick. Ultimately, your choice should align with what typing experience you find most enjoyable, whether that's a more substantial, resonant feel or a smooth and percussive tactile engagement.

Mentioned in this article

HMX 1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more