HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and KTT Hyacinth offer intriguing options for those seeking a linear typing experience. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, positioning itself as an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a robust auditory feedback while they type. Its design is geared towards providing a satisfying bottom-out sensation, making it feel incredibly satisfying during intense gaming sessions or long hours of typing. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth distinguishes itself with a shorter 3.5mm travel distance, intended to enhance user comfort by minimizing the hard bottoming-out experience commonly encountered with longer-stem switches. The KTT Hyacinth employs a single-stage elongated spring, which provides a more consistent force curve, contributing to its reputation for a smooth and silky typing experience. While both switches shine in their own ways, your choice may depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the KTT Hyacinth both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a shared sound profile characteristic of sharper, higher-pitched notes. This similarity stems from polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant output when the switches are activated. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its appeal in designs featuring RGB lighting, allowing light to shine through more effectively. As a result, both the 1989 and Hyacinth can produce visually striking displays while offering an acoustically pleasing experience, combining aesthetics with performance for users who prioritize both elements in their typing experience.
In contrast, the materials used for the bottom housings of the two switches introduce distinctive auditory characteristics. Both the HMX 1989 and KTT Hyacinth utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound rather than reflecting it, resulting in a rounder and more subdued auditory experience when keys bottom out. Therefore, while both switches feature a polycarbonate top, their synergy with a nylon bottom housing ensures that users will experience a blend of the heightened treble of the polycarbonate and the mellow bass of the nylon, enriching the overall tactile feedback during use.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials contributes to how the switches perform in practice. Both switches exhibit a cohesive sound profile that capitalizes on the strengths of their respective materials. The polycarbonate tops offer brightness, while the nylon bottoms ensure richness, effectively balancing the auditory experience. For those looking to attain a similar sound and feel in their mechanical switches, opting for combinations of polycarbonate and nylon as seen in both the HMX 1989 and KTT Hyacinth can yield consistent results, blending the characteristics of each material into a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them evenly matched in terms of the force required to register a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the HMX 1989 at 53 grams and the KTT Hyacinth at 56 grams. This means that while both switches offer a similar typing feel during actuation, the Hyacinth requires a bit more force to bottom out, providing a slightly firmer feedback when pressed all the way down. In terms of weight preference, both switches are classified as medium-light, but the KTT Hyacinth can be considered the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force. Typists looking for a lighter touch for extended use would likely favor the HMX 1989, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the KTT Hyacinth due to its increased bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, the HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the HMX 1989 provides a more substantial keypress experience, which many users who appreciate a deeper feel may prefer. Conversely, the KTT Hyacinth, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and those who favor faster response times, making it a more responsive choice. Ultimately, if you lean towards a hearty depth in your typing experience, the HMX 1989 would be ideal; however, if rapid activation is your priority, the KTT Hyacinth would better suit your needs.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep, thocky profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth boasts a neutral sound signature, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound level. This is particularly advantageous for users who need a versatile switch usable in both quiet home environments and busier work settings. While the 1989 will likely produce a richer and more resonant sound when bottoming out, the Hyacinth aims for a balanced approach, perhaps making it preferable for shared spaces.
Feel is where the two switches showcase distinct experiences. The 1989 offers a typing sensation that is notably plushy and satisfying, providing a tactile response that many enthusiasts find appealing during prolonged typing sessions. The KTT Hyacinth, on the other hand, is crafted for a silky feel; its unique design features a subtly resistant light typing experience that minimizes friction when pressing keys. The use of a single-stage spring contributes to this smoothness, making the Hyacinth a more consistent option compared to switches that utilize dual-stage springs. Both switches are designed to provide a good typing experience, but users may prefer one over the other depending on their specific tactile preferences.
Considering both the sound and feel, the HMX 1989 delivers a thocky auditory blast that aligns well with enthusiasts craving greater auditory feedback, while the KTT Hyacinth presents a more neutral sound profile suitable for varied environments. On the tactile front, the textured plushiness of the 1989 contrasts with the silky and subtle resistance offered by the Hyacinth. Choosing between these two switches will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a richer sound and plush feel or a balanced sound with a smoother, more consistent typing experience. Both switches have their merits and can cater to different users' needs effectively.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific usage scenarios. If you prioritize a richer acoustic experience and a deeper feel with a distinct "thock" sound, the HMX 1989 would be the perfect choice, especially for gaming or typing tasks where auditory feedback enhances your engagement. Its slightly lighter actuation force of 53 grams makes it comfortable for extended gaming sessions or typing marathons, offering a unique depth of sound for those who appreciate more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother and more consistent typing experience, the KTT Hyacinth will likely serve you better. Its single-stage elongated spring design and 3.5mm travel distance allow for a silky feel while minimizing resistance and providing a neutral sound profile. This makes the Hyacinth an excellent option for office environments or shared spaces, where a subtle typing experience is preferred. Additionally, its slightly heavier actuation force of 56 grams can offer a reassuring stability without compromising comfort. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only your tactile and auditory preferences but also the contexts in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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