HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent options to consider are the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Luciola, both of which fall into the linear category but offer distinct characteristics that can greatly influence your typing experience. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback while maintaining a smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola stands out not only for its medium heft and smooth, bouncy feel but also for its unique glow-in-the-dark feature that adds a playful touch to any setup. While the Luciola produces a distinct sound profile reminiscent of a “can of spray paint being shaken,” the HMX 1989 offers a more grounded auditory experience that many gamers and typists find delightful. Ultimately, the choice between these two linear switches hinges on personal preference—whether you prioritize sound, feel, or aesthetics in your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Gateron Luciola Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 switch features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the subtleties of sound while typing. Moreover, its translucency allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual aesthetics when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which, while different from polycarbonate, also aims to deliver a higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. Although both switches provide distinct auditory sensations, their preference for a clearer, higher-toned sound indicates a shared design philosophy, which would yield similar sounding results in environments conducive to sound appreciation.

Focusing on the bottom housing, the HMX 1989 employs nylon, a classic material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon absorbs more sound, contrasting with the properties of polycarbonate and thus creating a more rounded auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Luciola features the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing as it does for the top, leading to a consistent pointed and high-pitched sound. Both switches leverage their unique materials to produce complementary sound profiles that result in a rich typing experience, although the HMX emphasizes depth, while the Luciola leans towards a brighter, sharper sound.

Ultimately, the different materials utilized in the HMX 1989 and Gateron Luciola create a distinctive auditory experience influenced by the construction of each housing. With a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, the 1989 provides a uniquely balanced sound profile where the sharper treble competes with a deeper bass. In contrast, the Luciola's use of the proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom results in a uniform high-pitched characteristic. As such, while both switches have varied compositions, they embody a similar ethos of achieving a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Users who enjoy the lighter tones in the Luciola may find the 1989 appealing as well, despite the differences in material.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, we find notable differences in their 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. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming might find the HMX 1989 more suitable, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel may favor the Luciola for its more substantial feedback. Ultimately, the HMX 1989 outperforms the Luciola in terms of being lighter, which can lead to less fatigue during extended use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, we see a notable difference. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional preference among keyboard users for a deeper feel. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor quicker responsiveness, particularly gamers who benefit from faster actuation times. While both switches deliver linear feedback without tactile bumps, the HMX 1989's longer travel may appeal to users seeking a more substantial keystroke experience, while the Luciola's shorter actuation could be perceived as too abrupt for some. Thus, if you're looking for a more pronounced keypress, the HMX 1989 is the preferable option, while the Gateron Luciola is ideal for those prioritizing speed and efficiency.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky profile, which is characterized by a bass-heavy acoustics that provide a satisfying auditory feedback. Users will likely notice that each keystroke resonates with a fullness that can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate a rich, low-end sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch presents a much more complex soundscape with its clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics. The clacky quality brings a sharp and snappy tone, while the chirpy aspect adds a unique squeak that sets it apart. The marbly and high-pitched descriptors further emphasize a bright, resonant sound that may appeal to typists looking for clarity and articulation with every key press. Thus, while both switches offer engaging sound profiles, the 1989 leans toward a deep thockiness, whereas the Luciola offers a more intricate tapestry of sounds.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is less explicitly described but is known for its smooth operation. By contrast, the Gateron Luciola excels in providing a medium heft with a bouncy and smooth experience, characterized as snappy, buttery, and polished. This combination allows for a responsive typing experience that feels lively and engaging. The snappy nature of the Luciola switch makes it responsive to touches, while the buttery and polished descriptions speak to a seamless and refined keystroke experience, suggesting minimal friction and effortless actuation. While the feel of the 1989 remains somewhat undefined, the Luciola’s tactile sensations are geared toward enhanced feedback and comfort during extended use.

In conclusion, if you’re exploring mechanical switches, the HMX 1989 and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer captivating options, each with unique audio and tactile signatures. The 1989’s deep, thocky sound creates a satisfying acoustic experience, ideal for those who favor a bass-heavy ambiance, while the Luciola’s array of clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched sounds presents a livelier auditory playground. Feeling-wise, although the 1989’s specifics are less clear, the Luciola’s smooth, bouncy, and polished feedback make it a top contender for an engaging typing experience. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but both can lead to an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a medium-light bottom-out force and appreciate a thocky, deep sound that provides a satisfying feedback experience, the HMX 1989 may be the ideal fit for you. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a softer touch in their keystrokes, making it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, characterized by a sound profile that is clacky, chirpy, or marbly, then the Gateron Luciola will likely appeal more to you. These switches not only have a unique glow-in-the-dark feature that adds visual flair but also offer a bouncy, smooth, and snappy feel that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your priorities in tactile feedback, sound preference, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that whichever switch you choose aligns with your personal typing style and gaming needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more