HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Gateron Ink Red stand out as popular linear options, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky feel, offers a profound typing experience that many gamers and typists seek. Its robust design and satisfying feedback make it ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red excels with its lower actuation force, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter typing style. Known for its smoothness and a crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Red enhances the experience for those who enjoy a more fluid and responsive touch. While both switches have their unique merits—whether it’s the deep thockiness of the HMX 1989 or the silky ease of the Ink Reds—understanding their subtleties can help you make an informed choice; 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Ink Red, distinct differences emerge in the composition of their top housings, which influences their sound profiles. The HMX 1989 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, crisper sound experience due to the material's stiffer nature. This characteristic allows for clearer resonance and is particularly advantageous for RGB illumination, as polycarbonate's translucency effectively accents the lighting effects. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing that, while also yielding a higher-pitched sound, delivers a clackier experience without veering into overly sharp territory. Thus, while both switches provide elevated sound frequencies, their approaches produce subtly varying auditory sensations.
The lower housing materials of the HMX 1989 and Gateron Ink Red present a contrasting scenario; the HMX 1989 employs nylon, known for its deeper and rounder sound profile. Due to its softer composition, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, contributing to a more subdued auditory output. Conversely, the Ink Red's bottom housing utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend that maintains a pointed and high-pitched resonance akin to its counterpart in the top housing. Despite the difference in material characteristics, the Ink Red continues to deliver a sound experience that aligns closely with its overall branding, focusing on a satisfying clackiness—an aspect that differentiates it from the warmer, fuller sound of the HMX 1989's nylon casing.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings of both switches denotes a complex relationship where each material contributes to the overall typing experience. The HMX 1989's design allows the characteristics of its nylon bottom housing to impart a rounder bottom-out feel while the polycarbonate top enhances the release sound's clarity. In the Gateron Ink Red, the proprietary INK blend in both housings aids in retaining a consistent sound profile that prioritizes a high-pitched, clacky result, especially noticeable upon key release. Although their materials diverge, both switches can achieve distinctive auditory results depending on their respective compositions, showcasing how material selection is pivotal to crafting unique sound profiles and tactile sensations in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users can expect a similar responsiveness when pressing a key to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the HMX 1989 reaching 53 grams and the Ink Red escalating to 60 grams. This indicates that while both switches feel equally light when activating a key, the Gateron Ink Red provides a heftier resistance when bottoming out, giving it a slightly more substantial feel during full key presses. Consequently, for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the HMX 1989 is the better choice, while those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback from a heavier switch might gravitate toward the Gateron Ink Red. Overall, the 1989 is considered lighter due to its lower bottom out force, while the Ink Red is heavier.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This similarity means that users can expect a similar keystroke feel and responsiveness when engaging either switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. With both switches having the same travel distance, they will deliver equivalent results in terms of how far the key moves from the top to the bottom when pressed. Consequently, those who prefer a consistent feedback and performance across different switches will find this aspect particularly appealing in both the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Ink Red.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 switch is celebrated for its deep and thocky acoustic signature, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find enjoyable, particularly for gaming and writing purposes. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red switch is characterized by a neutral yet chirpy sound profile, giving a nice blend of smoothness with a slight squeak. This means that while the Ink Red's sound tends to be more versatile, suitable for both casual and professional settings, the 1989 offers a fuller sound that some may prefer for its richness and ambiance. Ultimately, the sound experience will also depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but die-hard enthusiasts often gravitate toward the distinctive tone of the 1989.
Regarding feel, the HMX 1989 is known for its robust and tactile feedback, making each keypress an engaging experience, although the specific sensations it offers vary depending on build and material used. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red switches present a silky and polished feel, enhancing the smoothness while minimizing resistance during keypresses. The Ink Reds provide a mild typing experience that feels accessible to users, attracting those who appreciate a refined yet gentle touch. While the 1989 switches cater to a more pronounced typing engagement, the Ink Reds allow for a smoother and easier typing session, making them approachable for users of all experience levels.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that provides a rich sound and a more defined tactile feedback, the HMX 1989 might be the preferred choice for a deeper engagement. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter typing experience with a smooth and polished feel, the Gateron Ink Red switches may be more appealing. Choosing between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference in sound and typing feel, as both offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience. If you are seeking specific qualities, you might find that exploring both switch types will lead you to a satisfying result based on your typing style and acoustic preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a deeper, thocky sound profile and appreciate a medium-light actuation force that allows for a more deliberate typing experience, the HMX 1989 is likely the right choice for you. Its construction provides a unique auditory feedback that can enhance your enjoyment while gaming or typing, making it a solid option for those who prioritize sound and tactile response. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red switch would be more suitable. With its slightly higher actuation force, polished feel, and notably smooth action, it excels in environments where comfort and efficiency are key. The Ink Red’s neutral sound characteristic and silky typing feel make it an excellent choice for either home or work settings, accommodating a variety of tasks with ease. By aligning your choice with your preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, you can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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