HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Mini i can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sounds and smooth linear action, making it a favored choice for gamers who seek a responsive keystroke without tactile interruptions. Its performance shines in intense gaming sessions where quick, fluid movements are critical. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i presents a more office-friendly alternative, featuring a subtle tactile bump that offers satisfying feedback without the harsh noise typically associated with mechanical switches. This makes them particularly suitable for long hours of typing in professional environments, ensuring comfort and concentration. While the HMX 1989 excels in its immersive gaming capabilities and robust feel, the Gateron Mini i's lightweight design and muted sound profile appeal to those prioritizing a quieter workspace. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Gateron Mini i exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials, which significantly affect their acoustic profiles. The HMX 1989 incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In this case, the translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual appeal of the keyboard, especially when subjected to RGB lighting. This material is adept at generating a clear and resonant auditory response, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound when typing. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This makes for a more subdued auditory experience, thus appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing environment.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a consistent acoustic property across both models. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound impacts how the switches feel and sound during use; in both instances, the nylon bottom housing brings about a duller and rounder sound profile. Since sound absorption is a key feature of nylon, both the HMX 1989 and Gateron Mini i provide a more muted experience when bottoming out a key. This shared characteristic in bottom housing results in a foundation of sonic consistency and tactile feedback that is pleasing to the user.
Ultimately, while the HMX 1989 and Gateron Mini i differ in the materials used for their top housings, they converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housings, which provides analogous effects when pressing the keys. The polycarbonate top housing of the HMX 1989 enhances the clarity and brightness of sound during keystrokes compared to the deeper tones produced by the nylon top housing of the Mini i. However, given that both switches share the same nylon material in their bottom housings, users can expect similar foundational auditory and tactile sensations when bottoming out the keys, even if the overall sound profile varies. Thus, while the two models offer different top housing experiences, their combination of materials ensures a shared quality that blends their unique characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, there are notable differences in weight and feel. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light, while the Gateron Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Mini i will feel less strenuous during use, which can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the heavier HMX 1989, as its higher forces provide a more pronounced resistance. Thus, the Mini i is the lighter option, while the HMX 1989 is the heavier one, catering to different user preferences in typing feel and fatigue during prolonged use.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference underscores the preferences of various users: the HMX 1989, with its more traditional 4 mm distance, appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, providing a deeper and potentially more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Mini i's 3.4 mm travel distance caters to users, particularly gamers, who favor quicker response times and a more abrupt feedback, making it ideal for rapid key presses. Thus, if you seek a more immersive typing experience, the longer HMX 1989 switch might be your best bet, whereas the shorter Mini i switch could be preferable for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 profile of the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep, thocky qualities, delivering a satisfying auditory experience that many users appreciate for its full-bodied resonance. This contrasts with the Gateron Mini i, which features a neutral sound profile, making it more subdued and office-friendly. While the 1989 provides a prominent auditory feedback that can be quite pleasing for those who enjoy a more robust sound, the Mini i prioritizes a quiet operating environment, suitable for shared workspaces and prolonged typing sessions without drawing unnecessary attention.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is lauded for its smooth and unyielding actuation, providing a consistent experience that promotes fast and fluid typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i features multiple tactile characteristics, including a bouncy feel, gentle resistance, and a subtle feedback mechanism. The Mini i's design ensures effortless actuation that reduces finger fatigue, ideal for long hours of typing. Users may find the lively response of the Mini i both snappy and mildly stepped, offering an engaging typing experience without the overwhelming presence of a more pronounced tactile switch.
In summary, while the HMX 1989 linear switch caters to those who favor a rich auditory experience with a smooth typing feel, the Gateron Mini i excels in environments where a quieter, more subdued feedback is necessary, combining light actuation with a gentle tactile response. Both switches have their unique advantages: if you're drawn to deep sounds and smoothness, the 1989 is ideal; however, if comfort and discretion are your priorities, the Mini i will serve you well. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific typing environment and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch boils down to your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a deeper, satisfying typing experience with a medium-light actuation force—ideal for a blend of gaming and regular typing sessions—the HMX 1989 is your go-to option, offering a thocky feel that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its sound and feel cater well to users who enjoy a more traditional linear switch experience. On the other hand, if you're spending hours in front of your keyboard and value a lighter, quieter operation, the Gateron Mini i would suit you best. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. This switch is perfect for office environments or shared spaces where a muted sound profile is crucial. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you desire a more dynamic and tactile typing feel for gaming or an easy, low-impact typing experience for work.
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