HMX 1989 vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options to consider are the HMX 1989 and the KTT Matcha. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky feel, is a linear switch that provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a quiet and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha stands out as one of the finest representations of a tactile switch, offering a noticeable, snappy tactility that enhances the satisfaction of each keystroke, paired with a clean, accented sound profile due to its long pole stem. While the linear HMX 1989 prioritizes a seamless action favored in fast-paced gaming environments, the tactile KTT Matcha appeals to those who enjoy feedback with every press, making it a perfect choice for typists seeking a more engaging and interactive experience. Nevertheless, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the KTT Matcha switches, a notable similarity lies in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches employ this material to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate promotes effective RGB lighting effects, making it an aesthetically pleasing choice for both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar auditory experiences from the top housing of both the HMX 1989 and KTT Matcha switches when it comes to light impacts and sound quality.
However, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two models. The HMX 1989 incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile because of nylon's softer nature that absorbs sound more effectively. This results in a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound, contributing to a different tactile feedback experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which means that it retains the crisp sound profile established by its top housing. This difference in material affects how each switch feels and sounds when pressed and released, with the HMX 1989 focusing on a softer auditory experience while the Matcha is likely to provide a more consistent high-pitched tone throughout.
In summary, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing in the HMX 1989 and a polycarbonate bottom housing in the KTT Matcha creates distinct profiles that impact user experience. While the top housings yield similar sound qualities across both switches, the nylon in the HMX 1989 contributes to a fuller, more rounded “bottom-out” sound, whereas the polycarbonate in the Matcha enhances high frequencies throughout the keystroke. Ultimately, these material choices reflect differing design philosophies that cater to varying preferences in sound and feel among users.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch differ in both actuation force and bottom out force, which will significantly influence the typing experience for users. The HMX 1989 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Matcha. This means that the Matcha switch might be preferable for those seeking a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Regarding bottom out force, the HMX 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is heavier than the Matcha's 45 grams. Thus, while the Matcha offers a lighter overall feel, the HMX 1989 provides a more robust experience with its higher forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback while typing. In summary, if lighter switches are needed for comfort over long periods, the Matcha would be the better choice, whereas the HMX 1989 would suit users who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable experience in terms of the keypress depth and the feel when pressing down on either switch. With both having the same travel distance, the actuation experience will be largely uniform, allowing for a consistent typing or gaming performance regardless of which switch is used. Thus, individuals seeking to optimize their keyboard feel will find that both switches provide equivalent travel distance, ensuring similar results in key responsiveness.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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, thocky profile, which provides a rich, satisfying auditory experience that many users appreciate for its muted yet powerful thud. This sound quality makes it ideal for users who prefer a more subdued typing environment. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound can make typing feel lively and engaging, appealing to those who enjoy an auditory feedback that is more pronounced. Thus, if you prefer a quieter experience, the 1989 would be more suitable, while the Matcha suits those who enjoy distinct sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch provides a smooth, uninterrupted linear experience, allowing users to type without any tactile bumps or interruptions, which can lead to a seamless typing session. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha presents a blend of tactile qualities; it features a stepped tactile profile that offers a distinguishable bump at actuation, making every keystroke feel deliberate. This switch is also described as snappy and accented, providing a medium level of tactility that engages the user without overwhelming them. Moreover, the Matcha is noted for its feathery and subtle characteristics, making it easy to type with for long periods without fatigue. This contrast means the 1989 will suit those who favor a smooth and linear typing feel, while the Matcha caters to users who appreciate tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch cater to different typing preferences with their unique sound and feel characteristics. The 1989 offers a deep, thocky sound and a purely linear typing feel for those who prefer a muted experience, whereas the Matcha's clacky sound and pronounced tactility provide a more interactive and lively typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, quiet experience or prefer the engaging auditory and tactile feedback that the Matcha delivers. Both switches can provide enjoyable results, but they do so in distinctly different ways, making your decision essential to your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a medium-light actuation force of 53 grams and enjoy the deep, thocky feel characteristic of linear switches, especially for gaming or a quieter typing experience, the HMX 1989 would be a suitable option. It's particularly appealing if you value a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, allowing for quick, uninterrupted key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the KTT Matcha switch might be more to your liking. Its snappy and accented response, along with a clean bottom-out sound, makes it ideal for both typing and gaming, especially in shared environments where the clacky sound might add an enjoyable auditory dimension without being overly distracting. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and whether you enjoy a tactile response when making your decision.
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