HMX Game1989 vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Kailh BCP both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, provides a satisfying auditory experience ideal for gamers and typists who cherish feedback with each keystroke. Its design emphasizes a smooth linear action, making it perfect for those who value a seamless and consistent feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switches reimagine the beloved Black Cherry Pies, boasting a creamy, elastic responsiveness combined with a poppy and clacky sound signature that many users find delightful. This switch is particularly appealing to individuals seeking a switch that combines playfulness with a tactile feel, enhancing both gaming and typing sessions. While both switches are categorized as linear, they each bring distinct flavors to the table, making them appealing to different users. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Kailh BCP switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This combination leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, contributing to a crisper typing experience. The reflective nature of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, allowing for a visually striking aesthetic when used in keyboards designed for illumination. In contrast, the Kailh BCP is fitted with a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer characteristics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound, producing a typing experience that feels rounder and less bright than that of the polycarbonate housing.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, one finds a significant similarity: both the HMX 1989 and Kailh BCP utilize nylon material. This commonality implies that, irrespective of their differences in top housing composition, both switches will share certain acoustic properties attributed to the nylon bottom. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper sound profile, users will experience a consistent depth and fullness when bottoming out on either switch. This equivalence may be particularly significant for users who prioritize sound characteristics across their keystrokes. In essence, while the top housings introduce distinct tonal qualities, the nylon bases unify the bottoming experience, leaning towards a consistent auditory feel when pressed.
Overall, the contrasting materials of the top housings in the HMX 1989 and Kailh BCP create unique sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. The polycarbonate of the 1989 offers clarity and brightness, making it ideal for users who enjoy sharper keystrokes, especially with RGB enhancements. Conversely, the nylon top of the BCP fosters a more subdued and enveloping sound, appealing to those who prefer a heavier tactile experience. Yet, due to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches, these differences become somewhat tempered, as both switches will project a similar bass quality when the keys are fully pressed. Thus, users can expect a blend of unique auditory performances depending on the housing materials, while also enjoying a cohesive experience rooted in the soft, sound-absorbing traits of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience, especially during extended use or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP requires a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel when typing. As such, the HMX 1989 can be seen as more suitable for long periods of use, while the Kailh BCP may appeal to users who favor a firmer response in their keystrokes. Overall, the contrasts in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches show a clear preference for lighter versus heavier options, allowing users to select based on their typing style and comfort requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Kailh BCP linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance emphasizes the preference of certain users: those who favor the HMX 1989 may appreciate the deeper, more tactile feel that accompanies its greater distance, which can contribute to a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP’s shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers or speed enthusiasts looking for quicker response times and a more immediate feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for typing depth versus responsiveness; if you prefer a long and hearty key travel, the HMX 1989 would be your go-to, while those favoring a snappier reaction might lean towards the Kailh BCP.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky profile, which delivers a rich, resonant tone that can provide a satisfying auditory feedback during use. This quality often makes it a favorite among users who appreciate a solid and pronounced sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch offers a distinctively poppy and clacky sound, reminiscent of a more vibrant typing experience. This contrast means that while both switches are linear, the 1989 leans towards a deeper resonance, whereas the BCP injects a lively, crisp character into the acoustic profile, providing a unique auditory blend that will appeal to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch stands out for its depth, contributing to an unmistakably thocky sensation that many users find deeply satisfying. It provides a solid experience with each keystroke that can enhance both typing and gaming engagements. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch delivers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that is both unique and engaging. This elasticity often results in a more dynamic feel when typing, characterized by a gentle resistance that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. These distinct tactile qualities ensure that users experience diverse sensations, catering to preferences between a more robust, stable feel and a lighter, springy touch.
In summary, while both the HMX 1989 and Kailh BCP linear switches have their own unique sound and feel profiles, they cater to different preferences among users. The 1989 provides a thocky audio and deep tactile feedback, suited for those who enjoy a more grounded typing experience. In contrast, the BCP offers a lively sound and a bouncy, elastic feel that appeals to those who favor a more responsive and dynamic touch. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a rich, resonant sound and stability or a more vibrant audio and dynamic tactile feedback, but both options promise an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch and a deeper, thocky sound profile that amplifies a sense of bass in your keystrokes, the HMX 1989 with its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams may be the better choice for you. It’s especially well-suited for gaming enthusiasts who require rapid key presses without the fatigue that can accompany heavier switches. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance during your typing sessions and are drawn to a bouncier feel combined with a distinct poppy and clacky sound, the Kailh BCP, with its medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams, might be your ideal switch. This switch offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, which can enhance both typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, consider your typing style, how much force you prefer to exert, and the kind of sound profile that excites you when making your choice between these two fascinating options.
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