HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the TTC Gold Red Pro stand out as two quintessential options in the linear switch category, each bringing unique attributes to the table. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, is particularly favored by gamers and enthusiasts who seek tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction during intense gaming sessions or high-speed typing. Its noticeable depth makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a richer keystroke experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro shines with its versatility, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that caters to a broader audience. With a neutral sound signature, it offers the adaptability necessary for various environments, whether one is in a bustling office or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Both switches have their merits, making them great options depending on your specific needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the TTC Gold Red Pro share a striking resemblance in their use of polycarbonate for their top housing. Both switches benefit from the properties of this material, which is known to provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its resonant qualities, enhancing the auditory experience while typing. This similarity is particularly noticeable when utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for optimal illumination, making both switches visually appealing for gamers and typists alike. As a result, one can expect a comparable sound clarity and aesthetic quality in both switches due to their identical top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the HMX 1989 and the TTC Gold Red Pro employs nylon, a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience compared to the more resonant polycarbonate top. Although both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housing, this leads to a distinct divergence in the sound profile during the bottom-out action. While the top housings provide clarity when releasing the keys, the nylon bottom housing ensures a more muted and plush feedback when the key is pressed down, making the typing experience unique to each switch.
Overall, the combination of materials used in both switches leads to a balanced sound profile. The polycarbonate top of both the HMX 1989 and the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a consistent and clear sound upon releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more subdued feel when bottoming out. Even though their sound profiles differ due to the materials used in their bottom housings, users will experience a harmonious balance and can achieve similar results in terms of sound clarity and aesthetic appeal with either switch. Thus, choosing between the two may come down to personal preference regarding the typing experience rather than a significant difference in acoustic performance.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer different experiences when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, but its bottom out force remains unknown. This means that users looking for a more delicate typing experience would find the Gold Red Pro appealing due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a firmer response may lean towards the HMX 1989. With the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro not specified, it's challenging to directly compare the overall feedback feel during key presses when bottoms out. However, given that the actuation force of the Gold Red Pro is lighter, it is likely to provide less resistance overall, making it more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In summary, the HMX 1989 is the heavier option, while the TTC Gold Red Pro is lighter, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, the HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the HMX 1989 the longer option by 0.2 mm. The difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience; the Gold Red Pro, with its shorter travel, may provide quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the HMX 1989's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the HMX 1989 providing that hearty depth and the Gold Red Pro delivering a speedier response.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 characteristics, the HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its deep and thocky profile, producing a satisfying and resonant thud when pressed, reminiscent of a solid knock. This gives it a rich auditory presence that appeals to those who enjoy a pronounced aural feedback during typing. In comparison, the TTC Gold Red Pro presents a more neutral sound signature that strikes a balance between being audible yet unobtrusive. It is designed to ensure that it doesn't disrupt the environment, making it suitable for both gaming and professional settings. Thus, while the 1989 offers a deeper, more bass-heavy tone, the Gold Red Pro provides a harmonious sound that accommodates a wider array of preferences and contexts.
Regarding the feel, the HMX 1989 is lauded for its depth and thocky sensation, which provides a weighty response that many enthusiasts appreciate during intense gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is recognized for its polished and smooth typing experience, characterized by mild resistance and subtle control. This switch accommodates users looking for an approachable and smooth interaction without the harshness that can come from more pronounced switch types. The seamless feel of the Gold Red Pro may appeal more to those doing extended typing sessions, as it minimizes fatigue while still offering tactile satisfaction.
In summary, both switches cater to different user preferences with regards to sound and feel. The HMX 1989 linear switch excels in offering a pronounced, thocky sound and a deeper presence, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro provides a versatile, smooth, and neutral experience, well-suited for a range of environments due to its polished feel and adaptable nature. Both switches have their strengths, and users may gravitate towards one based on their individual priorities—be it an immersive sound experience or a smooth, refined typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended usage scenarios. If you value a deeper, thocky sound and a more substantial typing experience, the HMX 1989 might be the better fit for you, especially if you're looking for a switch that delivers a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams is conducive to fast-paced gaming and typing, making it ideal if you prefer a slightly more pronounced acoustic experience while gaming or producing content. Conversely, if you're seeking versatility and smoothness across various tasks, the TTC Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. With its neutral sound profile, polished feel, and mild resistance, this switch caters well to both casual and professional environments, allowing for seamless transitions between gaming, office work, and leisurely typing sessions. Its adaptability makes it a safe bet for shared spaces where noise level is a consideration. Therefore, consider your needs carefully: if you enjoy an immersive thocky typing experience, go with the HMX 1989, but if you're after a smooth, gentle typing feel that fits any setting, the TTC Gold Red Pro is your go-to option.
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