HMX Game1989 vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of each option. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it the go-to choice for those who appreciate a solid and satisfying keystroke, particularly during gaming sessions or heavy typing. Its robust construction contributes to a tactile experience that many users crave. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, appealing to those who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback, which can heighten the enjoyment of typing and gaming alike. While both switches are linear, offering a smooth keypress without tactile bumps, the 1989 emphasizes depth and stability while the KD200 leans towards a lively and spirited sound profile. 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
50g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the HMX KD200 showcase significant contrasts in their top housing materials, which directly influences their sound profiles and aesthetic features. The 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This quality makes polycarbonate an ideal choice for users who appreciate clear auditory feedback, especially in configurations incorporating RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the overall aesthetic. In contrast, the KD200 utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic switch material recognized for its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, which can lead to a more subdued auditory experience, differing significantly from the heightened clarity offered by polycarbonate.
Both models share a similarity in their bottom housing material, which is exclusively nylon in both cases. This common choice in materials results in a consistent sound profile attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which dampens sound and creates a rounder feel. The shared nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes significantly to the depth and fullness of the sound emitted upon bottoming out, enhancing the tactile experience for typists. When pressed down, users will perceive that both switches elicit a comparable auditory response, driven by the acoustic qualities of the nylon bottom housing, which plays a vital role in how the switches feel and sound upon actuation.
Overall, while the HMX 1989 and HMX KD200 differ in their top housing materials—leading to distinct sound profiles during release—they converge on their bottom housing choice, resulting in a consistently deep and rounded sound when the keys are pressed down. This combination showcases how the interplay of housing materials in these switches can lead to varied auditory experiences, yet provide an underlying foundation of sound quality due to the nylon used in both bottom housings. Users who appreciate the benefits of each housing material can expect certain auditory characteristics to remain consistent across both models, particularly in the context of typing feel and bottom-out sounds.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience similar responsiveness when triggering a keystroke. However, they differ in their bottom out forces: the 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the KD200's bottom out force is lighter at 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches require the same force to actuate, the HMX KD200 will feel slightly less resistant when pressed all the way down, making it a more comfortable option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In terms of overall weight, the HMX 1989 is heavier due to its higher bottom out force, whereas the KD200 is lighter, favoring users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the 1989 featuring a travel distance of 4 mm while the KD200 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4 mm distance of the HMX 1989 is more traditional and may provide a satisfying depth that some users prefer, particularly those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the HMX KD200 caters to users looking for quicker actuation, making it a better choice for gamers who prioritize responsiveness. Consequently, if you prefer a more abrupt action, the KD200 would suit you better, whereas if you value a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the HMX 1989 offers that longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and typing experience.
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 HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 acoustics, making it a prime choice for users seeking a rich, resonant typing experience. This thockiness is often favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a sound that feels satisfying and substantial with each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX KD200 switch stands out as the clackiest option within the HMX Film switch family. The sharper, more pronounced sounds emitted from the KD200 may appeal to those who enjoy a louder and more aggressive auditory feedback while typing. It's worth noting, however, that sound can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which can slightly alter the perceived auditory characteristics of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch provides a plush typing experience that is smooth and consistent. Users often describe the keystrokes as luxurious, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. The KD200, in contrast, offers a more tactile and lively feel, likely providing a more engaging typing experience with its heightened responsiveness combined with the clacky sound. Each switch caters to different preferences; the 1989 may excel in comfort for extended use, while the KD200 could provide more excitement and dynamic feedback for faster typing.
In summary, both the HMX 1989 and HMX KD200 linear switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different typing preferences. The 1989 is characterized by its deep, thocky sound and plush feel, making it ideal for those who favor a softer, more resonant experience. Meanwhile, the KD200’s clackier sound and lively tactile feedback deliver a more stimulating typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a rich, satisfying sound and plush feel or a louder, more engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX 1989 and the HMX KD200 linear switches, it's essential to consider your specific preferences in both sound and feel. If you enjoy a deeper, thocky typing experience combined with a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 is likely your best choice. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing or gaming, and its sound profile complements that with a satisfying thock that can enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of just 50 grams and prefer a clackier sound, the HMX KD200 might be the right fit for you. This switch is perfect for those who favor rapid keystrokes and an audible feedback that adds a playful character to your typing, making it particularly suitable for fast-paced gaming or heavy typing scenarios. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize sound and feel in your typing experience, allowing you to select the switch that best matches your style.
Mentioned in this article
