HMX Game1989 vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and HMX Gravel offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences despite both being linear switches. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming. This switch is particularly favored by users seeking a satisfying tactile experience in their keyboard, especially during prolonged use. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel excels in delivering exceptional smoothness and a refined typing feel, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize a lightweight, responsive keystroke without sacrificing comfort. With a medium-light actuation force that promotes effortless typing, the Gravel is great for users who type extensively or prefer a softer touch. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether one seeks the deep thock of the 1989 or the smooth responsiveness of the Gravel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the HMX Gravel, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material is pivotal in shaping the acoustic profile of each switch, culminating in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes significantly to this clarity and resonance, which is particularly advantageous for gamers and typists seeking a responsive auditory feedback. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for excellent RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches. As a result, users can expect a similar sound profile when utilizing either switch, embodying crispness that is ideal for dynamic usage scenarios.
In contrast, when examining the bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and the HMX Gravel feature nylon, which diverges sharply from the characteristics of polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, serves to absorb sound waves, thus producing a deeper and fuller audio experience. This damping quality of nylon creates a distinct sound profile compared to the sharper tones available in the polycarbonate top. When users engage with these switches, the nylon bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out feel and sound, resulting in a fuller auditory experience that contrasts with the higher-pitch clarity of the polycarbonate top.
Consequently, while the HMX 1989 and the HMX Gravel share a similar construction ethos in their top housings, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a unique interplay of sound profiles. The nylon's absorption capabilities mitigate the high frequencies produced by the polycarbonate, ensuring that both switches provide a balanced auditory feedback. Therefore, even with distinct bottom housing materials, the overall performance remains consistent and qualitatively high, marrying the crispness of the polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon for an effective and dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, this harmonious blend ensures that both models excel in delivering satisfying tactile and auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we see that both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a similarly light touch when triggering keystrokes. This equivalence in actuation can lead to comparable typing experiences for those who prefer lighter switches, making either option suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ; the 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is heavier compared to the Gravel’s 50 grams. Consequently, while both switches provide a light actuation, the HMX Gravel offers a softer landing due to its lower bottom out force. This means that users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the HMX 1989, whereas those favoring a lighter touch throughout both actuation and bottoming out would likely prefer the HMX Gravel.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Gravel switch may feel more responsive and suited for users seeking quicker actuation, often favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the 1989 switch with its 4 mm travel offers a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference; if you value speed, the Gravel’s shorter distance may be ideal, whereas if you appreciate a fuller typing feel, the 1989 could be the better option.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 is known for its deep, thocky sound, making it one of the more pronounced options in the HMX Film switch series. This unique auditory characteristic contributes to an immersive typing experience, often favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a more substantial auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Gravel linear switch, while also a smooth performer, has a more subdued sound profile, which is likely to produce a quieter typing experience. The sound produced by each switch can vary significantly depending on the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so you'll want to consider these aspects when determining which switch aligns with your auditory preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its robust and satisfying bottom-out sensation, giving it a certain heft and presence that many users find gratifying during intense gaming sessions or lengthy typing marathons. This solid feel is complemented by its thocky sound, creating a feedback loop that enhances the tactile experience. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel linear switch prioritizes smoothness and ease of keystrokes, with a medium-light actuation force that provides a delightfully responsive typing experience. This lighter touch is ideal for those who favor a more relaxed typing style, requiring less effort to actuate keys while still achieving a fluid and seamless interaction.
In summary, the choice between the HMX 1989 and HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you prefer a rich, thocky sound with a more solid bottom-out feel for an engaging typing experience, the HMX 1989 will likely be your switch of choice. Conversely, if you value smoothness and a lighter touch for an effortless typing experience, the HMX Gravel is the way to go. Both options deliver unique qualities that cater to different styles, ensuring that whether you choose one over the other, you'll enjoy a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the specific use cases you have in mind. If you favor a deeper, thocky sound and feel—characteristics often preferred by gamers looking for a robust tactile presence—the HMX 1989, with its medium-light force of 53 grams, is an excellent choice. This switch provides a substantial feedback that can enhance your gaming experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a stronger, more resonant keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a lighter typing experience, the HMX Gravel, with its lighter actuation force of just 50 grams, may be the better fit. Its refined feel and exceptional smoothness cater well to typists or those who spend prolonged periods typing, as it ensures a comfortable and effortless experience. In summary, choose the HMX 1989 for a thockier, more assertive typing experience suited to gaming, or opt for the HMX Gravel if you seek a lighter, smoother, and more fluid typing sensation.
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