HMX Game1989 vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a critical role, and two distinct options worth considering are the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade). The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound profile, is celebrated among gamers for its smooth linear motion and satisfying keystrokes, making it an appealing choice for those who value unimpeded rapid keypresses during intense gameplay. In contrast, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) stands out with its sharp tactile feedback, combining a medium-heavy feel with a pronounced tactile bump both on the downstroke and an even sharper one on the upstroke. This unique dual-bump feature provides a premium typing experience, perfect for typists seeking a more responsive and engaging interaction with their keyboard. While both switches cater to different preferences—smooth linear action versus a tactile and punchy response—each has its own advantages depending on your primary activities such as gaming or typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch, a notable distinction exists in the materials used for their top housings: the 1989 uses polycarbonate, whereas the Moyu Black features PBT. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile, which is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting applications due to its translucence. In contrast, the PBT used in the Moyu Black offers a more neutral sound profile. This means that while the 1989 will deliver a more pronounced audio experience during use, the Moyu Black will provide a balanced performance that lacks the crispness of polycarbonate but still avoids dullness, creating a different auditory experience when typing.
The bottom housings of both switches further accentuate their differences in material properties. The HMX 1989 employs nylon, a softer plastic that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, which complements the sharper sound produced by its polycarbonate top. This combination results in a typist experience characterized by a more substantial sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, the Moyu Black also incorporates PBT for its bottom housing, leading to a neutral sound profile like its top counterpart. While the 1989's bottom housing dampens sound more effectively to create a rounder auditory sensation, the Moyu Black's equally neutral profile means that it offers a consistent yet less pronounced response overall.
Ultimately, both switches exhibit their unique sound profiles due to the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. Although the HMX 1989's polycarbonate top housing creates a brighter sound that contrasts with the rooted tonal quality of its nylon base, the Everglide Moyu Black relies on PBT for an even sound that lacks extremes. If one were to seek similar results in terms of audio characteristics, the careful orchestration of materials in each switch will dictate the final experience, as the interaction between top and bottom housings can significantly influence sound output. Therefore, while both switches will provide satisfying experiences, the specific qualities and combinations of materials lead to distinct auditory personalities that cater to different preferences in tactile and sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, significant differences in both actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the HMX 1989 is lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming periods. Conversely, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade), being heavier, offers a more tactile experience that some users may prefer for a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Therefore, while both switches provide different tactile feedback and user experiences, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one values a lighter, easier keystroke or a firmer, more pronounced action.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they share the same keypress distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will experience identical key travel sensations when using either switch, leading to consistent performance in both linear and tactile applications. With both switches set at 4 mm, gamers and typists alike can expect comparable actuation and feedback, allowing for a seamless transition between the two options without noticeable differences in travel distance.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 celebrated for its deep and thocky acoustics, offering a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts prize. This sound signature is particularly appreciated in gaming and typing scenarios, where the deep tone can enhance the immersion. Conversely, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch produces a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, providing a distinctive auditory experience compared to the more muted tones of the 1989. The Moyu Black’s sound is characterized by a satisfyingly snappy noise during actuation, which can make typing feel more dynamic, although the overall sound level can vary based on the board and keycaps used.
When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX 1989 is known for its smooth linear action, allowing for fluid key presses without any tactile feedback. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a consistent typing experience devoid of interruptions. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) showcases a pronounced tactile feedback with a strong downstroke bump and a notably more intense upstroke tactile response. The Moyu Black’s medium-heavy resistance combined with a sharper tactile sensation results in a typing experience that is both engaging and tactilely rewarding, providing a clear distinction with every keypress.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the 1989 excels in producing a deep, thocky sound and offers a smooth linear feel, the Moyu Black stands out with its resonant, sharper auditory signature and hypertactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a seamless, quiet experience or a more tactile and sonorous typing encounter.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and intended usage. If you’re looking for a switch that provides a smooth, deep typing experience with a lighter feel, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force of 53 grams makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, gaming, or for those who prefer a less tactile response. The thocky sound and feel can enhance your enjoyment, especially if you appreciate linear switches that deliver a satisfying auditory experience without the interruption of tactile bumps. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile feedback in your keyboard experience, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams, combined with a sharp tactile bump that is both pronounced and impactful, makes it ideal for typists who appreciate the sensation of each keystroke. The resonant sound profile adds an immersive quality that enhances the overall typing experience, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy feedback and want to feel a distinct response with every press. In summary, whether you lean towards the smooth and deep nature of the HMX 1989 or the sharp and robust tactile feedback of the Moyu Black, both switches provide unique experiences tailored to diverse typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
