HMX 1989 vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the HMX Lucky both present compelling options for enthusiasts who prefer linear switches. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep thocky sound profile, is often favored by gamers and typists seeking a tactile yet smooth experience that enhances both performance and pleasure during extended usage. In contrast, the HMX Lucky, featuring softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a lighter touch and a more neutral typing experience that many find deeply satisfying, making it an attractive choice for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use. While both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, choosing between them ultimately depends on your specific typing style and what you value most in your keyboard experience. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the HMX Lucky utilize distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in varied acoustic profiles. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity and transparency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffness allows for a more resonant and clear sound when a key is released, making it especially attractive for users who appreciate precise auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Lucky opts for nylon in its top housing. As a softer plastic, nylon tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it, creating a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. This fundamental difference in material choice means that while the 1989 might be favored by users seeking brightness in their keystrokes, the Lucky would appeal to those who prefer a more muted and subdued sound.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which allows for some common ground when considering their overall auditory characteristics. The nylon used in both the HMX 1989 and the HMX Lucky provides a similar foundational acoustic experience, ensuring that the bottom housing's properties affect the bottom-out sound and feel the same way for both switches. Since nylon is effective at absorbing sound, typists will find that both models produce a deeper and more rounded sound profile during the act of bottoming out. The uniformity of the nylon material in this respect creates a consistent tautness in the keystroke feedback, making both switches feel comparable in how they respond upon actuation.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the HMX 1989 and the HMX Lucky presents a unique balance between auditory brightness and depth. While the differences in top housing materials lead to contrasting sound profiles, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing helps cultivate some similarities in responsiveness and acoustic dampening. Users can expect that the HMX 1989 will deliver a more pronounced auditory experience during release due to its polycarbonate top, while the HMX Lucky will offer a richer and warmer sound, especially evident during bottoming out, thanks to its fully nylon construction. Regardless, both models achieve unique sound qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 requires a stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Lucky is lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Consequently, users who opt for the Lucky switch may find it better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who appreciate a more substantial feedback might lean toward the 1989 switch for its heavier feel. Overall, the HMX Lucky is the lighter option, while the HMX 1989 provides a heftier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lucky has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the HMX 1989 provides a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to users who prefer the traditional, deeper feel of a switch. In contrast, the HMX Lucky, with its shorter 3.8 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor a more responsive touch, common among gamers seeking quicker actuation. Thus, if you enjoy a hearty depth and tactile feedback when typing, the HMX 1989 would be the better choice, while the HMX Lucky offers a slightly faster response for those who prefer a snappier typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
The sound produced by the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized as deep and thocky, making it particularly pleasing for those who enjoy a robust acoustic profile while typing. This substantial sound can enhance the tactile experience, especially in gaming or typing environments where auditory feedback is appreciated. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, complemented by its softer nylon housing which may absorb some of the noise typically produced by a keyboard. Overall, while the 1989 delivers a more pronounced sound, the Lucky offers a quieter yet still satisfying auditory experience, dependent on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 is well-regarded for its thocky tactile response, which many users find enjoyable and immersive, particularly during long typing sessions or intense gaming. This feeling of depth tends to enhance the overall typing experience, contributing to a sense of satisfaction. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch is designed with a lightweight feel that aims for neutrality and comfort. Despite its softer build, users describe it as deeply satisfying, suggesting that it is well-balanced for various typing styles and preferences. While the 1989's feel is focused on a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Lucky offers a lighter and smoother experience, appealing to those who prefer a less forceful touch.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch tends to provide a deeper, more thocky sound and a pronounced tactile feel that some users find essential for their typing and gaming needs. Meanwhile, the HMX Lucky linear switch offers a softer, more neutral sound and a lightweight feel that caters to others looking for comfort and satisfaction without the added heft. While both switches provide enjoyable experiences, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, with each switch catering to different typing styles and acoustic preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch that offers a more substantial feel with a bottom out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 might be the ideal choice for you. Its reputation for being the deepest and thockiest among the HMX Film switch series means that it can deliver a rich and satisfying typing experience, especially if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile response. However, if you favor a lighter touch with an effortless activation, the HMX Lucky switch, with its 43 grams of bottom out force, would be more suitable. The Lucky’s softer and glittery nylon housing provides a neutral typing experience that's enjoyable and smooth, making it great for both casual typing and gaming without as much finger fatigue. Therefore, consider what you specifically desire from your switches in terms of sound, feel, and activation force to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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