HMX Game1989 vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Durock Ice King Linear stand as two compelling options for users who favor linear switches. The HMX 1989 is famed for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing not only tactile feedback but also an immersive auditory experience that appeals to gamers and typists alike. Its design embraces a rich sound without compromising on the smoothness that linear switch enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear shines with its smoothness, derived from full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication. This results in a typing experience that is silky, frictionless, and polished—a perfect match for those who value a quiet and refined feel while typing. Both switches offer unique benefits, appealing to different preferences in sound and tactility, thus making the choice between them a matter of personal taste. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Durock Ice King Linear switches present a distinct contrast, particularly in their top housing design. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is partly due to the rigidity of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant and clear auditory experience. Furthermore, polycarbonate's translucency is a significant aesthetic advantage, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, as it allows the colors to shine through vividly. In contrast, the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing that is characterized by its softer nature, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound more than polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder and less pronounced auditory output. Hence, while both switches deliver unique auditory experiences, the HMX 1989 emphasizes clarity, whereas the Ice King Linear focuses on warmth.
When examining the bottom housing components, both the HMX 1989 and the Durock Ice King Linear employ nylon material for their constructions. This shared characteristic results in similar sound profiles, with both switches delivering a deeper and fuller auditory experience that stem from nylon’s inherent sound absorption qualities. Due to the softness of nylon, the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is engaged. Thus, although the top housing materials differ, the commonality in bottom housing material ensures that users still receive a consistent experience in terms of the switch's overall resonance and sound dampening properties.
Ultimately, the difference in top housing materials between the HMX 1989 and the Durock Ice King Linear defines their sound profiles and user experience. The polycarbonate top of the HMX 1989 generates a more pronounced and bright sound upon release, while the nylon top of the Ice King Linear creates a smoother and more subdued sound. However, the uniformity in nylon used for both switches' bottom housings creates a unifying acoustic result that balances their differences. Consequently, users can expect an engaging typing experience characterized by the rich, warm notes of nylon in both switches, even as the unique qualities of each upper housing material play into the overall sound and feel dynamically.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Durock Ice King linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge that cater to varying user preferences. The HMX 1989 requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and reaches a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Durock Ice King linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel during key presses. As such, the Ice King is better suited for individuals who enjoy a stronger pushback when typing, while the 1989 would likely be more comfortable for those looking to minimize fatigue during prolonged use. Overall, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces suggest that users should consider their typing preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights distinct user experiences; the 1989 may provide a more traditional, deeper feel that some users prefer, especially those who enjoy a substantial tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Ice King Linear is likely to offer faster response times, appealing particularly to gamers who favor rapid key actuations. Thus, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Durock Ice King Linear would be the better choice, while the HMX 1989 caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced key press.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 noted for its deep and thocky auditory character, making it a compelling choice for users who appreciate a more robust and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile. While not entirely silent, its dampened acoustic response provides a subtle sound signature that is less intrusive than many other switches. Both switches can be affected by the specific combination of keyboard plates and keycaps, but overall, the 1989 is suited for those who enjoy auditory feedback, while the Ice King is preferred by those seeking a quieter environment.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch’s characteristics are less defined, but it could be inferred that it may not match the smoothness of the Durock Ice King Linear switch, which is celebrated for its silky, frictionless, and creamy typing experience. The Ice King’s factory lube and nylon construction contribute to a polished feel that minimizes resistance and offers a seamless keystroke, allowing users to glide effortlessly from key to key. This kind of smoothness is especially appealing for long typing sessions, making it comfortable for users who crave precision and fluidity in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 is ideal for those who prefer a robust, thocky sound and potentially a more traditional feel, while the Durock Ice King Linear excels in providing a silky-smooth typing experience with a quieter acoustic profile. The choice ultimately depends on your priorities—sound versus feel—and your specific preferences for typing environment. Both switches cater to different needs and desires, and understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when selecting your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch should ultimately align with your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you favor a lighter touch and appreciate a switch with a deeper, more pronounced sound profile, the HMX 1989 with its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams may be your best bet. This switch is particularly appealing for gamers who thrive on agility and responsiveness, where a slight decrease in resistance can make a noticeable difference in performance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a plush and silky typing experience, the Durock Ice King Linear, with its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, stands out for its smoothness and refined feel. This switch is ideal for typists who enjoy a creamy sensation and a subdued acoustic footprint, making it well-suited for long typing sessions or a quiet office environment. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the lighter feel and thocky characteristics of the HMX 1989 or the polished, frictionless experience provided by the Ice King Linear—as you make your choice.
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