HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 present compelling yet distinct options for enthusiasts. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it a solid choice for gamers and typists who appreciate tactile feedback and a robust auditory experience. Its unique characteristics offer a satisfying sensation during extensive use, which can enhance both performance and enjoyment. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a long-time favorite within the mechanical keyboard community, known for its smooth downstroke and rich, polished sound that balances low-pitched bassy tones with a mild yet chirpy character. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet, serene typing experience while still enjoying a bit of acoustic feedback. Ultimately, each switch offers something special that aligns with different preferences and typing styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 differ significantly in terms of their housing materials, which directly impact their sound profiles and typing experience. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucence. This material is conducive to creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users seeking clarity, especially when RGB lighting is involved. In contrast, the top housing of the Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend that also yields a relatively high-pitched sound but is characterized as less sharp and more balanced. While both switches exhibit a penchant for producing higher frequencies in sound, the polycarbonate of the 1989 likely provides a more pronounced clarity compared to the smoother characteristics of the Gateron switch.

On the lower housing side, the 1989 employs a nylon material, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a rounder audio experience that absorbs sound better than harder plastics. Conversely, the Ink Black V2 also uses an INK blend for its bottom housing, which aims for a higher-pitched and somewhat clacky sound. Even though both switches utilize materials that result in elevated sound profiles, the impact of the nylon in the 1989 will produce a noticeably fuller sound at the bottom-out point due to its sound-dampening properties, while the Ink Black V2's design leans toward a more crisp yet less impactful sound.

Ultimately, while the HMX 1989 and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches use distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, their sound characteristics exhibit both similarities and differences. The interplay of the materials within each housing affects the overall typing experience, making it important to consider how each housing material contributes to the switch's sound. If one were to optimize for similar results, blending the hardness of the 1989’s polycarbonate top with the Gateron’s INK bottom could offer a unique typing experience that has brightness interwoven with deeper tones, showcasing how the interaction between diverse materials can create a composite sound that appeals to various preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there is a notable distinction in both the actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light, making it ideal for extended typing sessions without much fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter touch for longer work or gaming sessions may lean towards the HMX 1989, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may favor the Gateron Ink Black V2. Overall, the Ink Black V2 will require more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the 1989, catering to different preferences in keyboard feel and feedback.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. As a result, both switches will deliver a similar experience in terms of key travel, contributing to a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 switch is renowned for its deep and thocky profile, which lends it a satisfying, muted resonance that many enthusiasts appreciate for its luxurious, rich acoustics. This thockiness often translates to a sound that feels solid and substantial, offering a more refined auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 presents a more complex auditory character. Its low-pitched nature provides a bass-heavy sound that is warm and mellow, while its bassy quality underscores a richer tone with each keystroke. However, the Ink Black V2 also introduces a chirpy aspect, adding a slight squeak that differentiates it from other switches. This combination creates a distinctive sound profile that is both intriguing and appealing.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is best known for its pronounced tactile feedback, offering a substantial resistance that typists often find satisfying. This switch is designed for those who appreciate a deeply engaging keystroke, although specific descriptors about its feel were not provided. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its mild nature, which renders a gentle and approachable typing experience. Its polished finish enhances the overall feel, ensuring that each keypress is smooth and fluid with reduced friction. This combination of mildness and polish creates a refined sensation that can accommodate both casual users and dedicated typists alike.

In summary, while the HMX 1989 offers a deeper, thocky sound and engaging feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 stands out with its low-pitched, bassy acoustics and mild, polished experience. Both switches cater to different preferences but can provide satisfactory performance in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, whether you gravitate toward the rich audio of the 1989 or the smooth, gentle keystrokes of the Ink Black V2, both options offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing or gaming. If you favor a medium-light switch that delivers a thocky sound profile, the HMX 1989, with its lighter bottom-out force of 53 grams, might be more suitable for you. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a deeper, richer audio experience while maintaining a softer actuation, providing a satisfying tactile response without excessive strain during prolonged use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust experience with a heavier bottom-out force of 70 grams, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the way to go. This switch is recognized for its low-pitched, bassy sound and smooth, polished feel, making it great for those who appreciate a stronger feedback and a more substantial key press. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preference, and the amount of force you like to exert when choosing between these two distinct switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more