HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and TTC Ice are two notable contenders in the linear switch category, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its "thocky" sound profile and deep actuation, providing a satisfying auditory response that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, TTC Ice switches boast a crystal-clear transparent design that not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also delivers a smooth and responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making them an excellent choice for users seeking a premium typing experience for both gaming and everyday tasks. While both switches excel in their own right, understanding their nuances will help you determine which switch aligns with your specific needs. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the TTC Ice share similarities in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances clarity and resonance, making it an ideal choice for users looking for an elevated auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting, giving both switches a visually appealing aesthetic that can enhance the overall gaming or typing experience. In terms of sound profile, both switches will likely produce a comparable auditory output, owing to their identical use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
Contrasting the bottom housings of the two models reveals a significant divergence in material choice. The HMX 1989 uses nylon, known for its softer qualities that absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material effectively dampens vibrations, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that softens the impact of each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Ice opts for polycarbonate as well in the bottom housing, mirroring the properties found in its top housing. Consequently, this choice reinforces the sharper sound profile that polycarbonate creates, leading to a bright and resonant bottom-out sound. Thus, while both models exhibit strong acoustic clarity in the upper section, the 1989’s nylon bottom housing introduces a contrastingly softer tone that sets it apart.
The interaction between the materials used in the top and bottom housings of each switch greatly influences the typing feel and sound output. The HMX 1989, with its nylon bottom, provides a more integrated and nuanced experience due to the absorption properties of the nylon, which results in a more blended auditory effect when typing. Conversely, the TTC Ice, equipped with the same polycarbonate material for both top and bottom housings, emphasizes a consistent sharpness throughout the sound profile, as both sections contribute to a bright and clear auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches may offer similar aesthetics and top sound qualities due to their shared top housing material, the 1989's unique nylon bottom housing creates a distinctly richer typing experience, highlighting the importance of material choice in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users will experience similar typing resistance when initially pressing down the keys. However, the bottom out forces differ; the HMX 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the TTC Ice requires a greater force of 60 grams to fully bottom out. This means that the HMX 1989 is the lighter switch overall, providing a slightly less intense experience when typing or gaming, which may benefit users who prefer long sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Ice, being the heavier switch, offers a more substantial typing feel that may appeal to those who appreciate a stronger push during each keystroke. Consequently, while users can expect similar actuation experiences with both switches, the heavier bottom out force of the TTC Ice introduces a notable contrast for users seeking weightier feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Ice linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm makes the HMX 1989 the longer switch, offering a more substantial keypress experience that many users may find preferable for a satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Ice, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor quick response times, which is particularly beneficial for gamers looking for rapid actuation. While both switches have their advantages depending on user preference, the HMX 1989 provides a deeper feel that some may find more comfortable, whereas the TTC Ice appeals to those who prefer a less abrupt keypress for faster gameplay.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is recognized for its deep and thocky profile, contributing to a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts find appealing. This characteristic sound makes it stand out in the world of linear switches, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced bottoming-out noise. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch is engineered to deliver a smooth and responsive typing sound, providing a pleasant auditory feedback that strikes a balance between silence and feedback. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, the overall sound experience will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, allowing users to tailor their setup further.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is known for its smooth and consistent keypress, providing a tactile experience that many gamers and typists appreciate. This switch offers a certain level of resistance that enhances control during gameplay or typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch also boasts a smooth and responsive feel, promoting a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that adapts well to both gaming and daily use. While both switches excel in offering a smooth keypress, the exact nuances in their tactile feedback can cater to different preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch provide a premium experience, each excelling in different areas. The 1989 switch is perfect for those who appreciate a deeper, thockier sound and a smooth, controllable feel, while the TTC Ice is designed for those who favor a clearer aesthetic and a satisfying bottom-out sound. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but in either case, you can expect a fulfilling typing experience that meets the demands of both gaming and everyday use.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it's essential to consider your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a deeper, thocky sound profile that enhances your gaming experience, the HMX 1989 might be the better choice for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for gamers who appreciate tactile feedback without the strain of heavier switches during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that combines a solid medium actuation force with a smooth yet responsive feel, along with a crystal-clear aesthetic for your keyboard, the TTC Ice is an excellent option. Its premium typing experience is versatile, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. Ultimately, your choice should come down to whether you value a softer feel and sound versus a more robust and visually appealing switch.
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