HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Glory Yellow offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Yellow, known for its smoother keystroke and comfortable travel distance, appeals to those who seek a more seamless typing experience, especially during long sessions of use. While both switches are linear, the HMX 1989 emphasizes tactile enjoyment and sound, whereas the Glory Yellow prioritizes smoothness and ease of use. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and Gateron Glory Yellow switches, it is evident that the top housings greatly influence the sound profiles of each switch type. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which provides enhanced resonance for a clear auditory experience. In contrast, the Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic characteristics absorb more sound, leading to a more muted auditory finish. Thus, while both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, the disparity in their upper housings results in notably different sound experiences.
The bottom housings of both switches share a similarity in their choice of material, which is nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to both the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Glory Yellow. Since nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, it minimizes unwanted noise and delivers a more resonant typing experience across both switch variants. Consequently, users can expect a consistent level of sound dampening and tactile feedback when bottoming out on either switch. This commonality will result in an enjoyable and rich auditory response related to the bottom housing aspect.
However, the overall sound and typing experience generated by the HMX 1989 and Gateron Glory Yellow will differ primarily because of the materials used in their top housings. While both switches share the engaging qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, the contrasting properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing distinctly influence the user experience when typing. The polycarbonate top of the HMX 1989 will yield a sharper sound upon key release, while the nylon top of the Glory Yellow will provide a more muted auditory exit. In summary, though both switches deliver a richness due to their nylon bottom directly impacting the bottom-out sound, the unique characteristics of their top materials highlight how different housing combinations can achieve distinct auditory profiles.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams to the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and an unknown bottom out force, some distinctions emerge. The HMX 1989 switch is lighter overall due to its lower actuation force, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Yellow offers a firmer actuation, leading to a more substantial typing experience for those who favor stronger keystrokes. While the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, the HMX 1989 clearly defines its resistance throughout the keystroke, contributing to a well-rounded typing experience. If both switches had comparable bottom out forces, users would likely experience similar tactile feedback, but as it stands, each switch caters to different preferences in typing pressure and feel.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent key feel and feedback, allowing for a similar typing experience. Because their travel distances are equal, users can expect to achieve similar results when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This feature can be particularly advantageous for those who seek uniformity in their typing experience across different keyboard setups.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 HMX 1989 linear switch delivers a satisfying thocky sound that is often characterized as deep and resonant, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic profile while typing or gaming. This switch’s sound signature contributes to an engaging auditory experience without the sharpness that some linear switches exhibit. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch produces a smoother, quieter sound, ideal for those who prefer a less intrusive typing experience. The serene auditory qualities of the Glory Yellow make it suitable for office environments or shared spaces, where a more discreet sound is often preferable.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch excels in delivering a plush and satisfying keypress thanks to its deeper thock, which gives users a sense of stability and assurance with each stroke. This noticeable feedback can enhance both typing accuracy and overall enjoyment. Conversely, the Glory Yellow switch is engineered to provide a smooth keystroke that allows for consistent and fluid operation. Its heavier weight offers a slight resistance that many users find gratifying, lending itself well to a nuanced typing experience that can help reduce finger fatigue during extended use.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches provide distinct yet enjoyable experiences catered to different preferences. The 1989's deep and thocky sound coupled with a plush feel makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Glory Yellow offers a quiet yet smooth operation, perfect for users seeking a subtler auditory experience and effortless keystrokes. While the individual qualities may differ, both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, ultimately aligning with the preferences of their users.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the specific use cases you foresee. If you prioritize a thocky sound profile along with a medium-light actuation force, reaching 53 grams at bottom out, the HMX 1989 would be your go-to switch. It's particularly well-suited for gaming, creating a satisfying tactile feedback that can enhance your overall gaming experience thanks to its deep, resonant acoustics. Alternatively, if you prefer a smoother keystroke with a more enjoyable travel distance and are looking for a switch that may better facilitate a satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Glory Yellow is likely the better option for you. It's designed for those who enjoy a direct line feel and seek a heavier weight that can provide stability and precision with each keystroke. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a switch resonate with you the most—whether it’s the acoustic depth and tactile feedback of the HMX 1989 or the smoothness and consistent feel of the Gateron Glory Yellow. Your typing and gaming style will guide you in making the best choice.
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