HMX Game1989 vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB stand out as compelling options, each catering to different preferences and styles of gaming and typing. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and "thocky" feel, delivers a smooth linear experience, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and fluid keystrokes, perfect for fast-paced gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a tactile experience characterized by a refined medium-strength bump, developed with input from keyboard enthusiasts, providing satisfying feedback for typists who appreciate a more deliberate keypress. While the HMX 1989 excels in producing a swift and uninterrupted typing rhythm, the Cherry MX Purple RGB caters to users who enjoy a responsive tactile sensation, enhancing their overall typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, we can observe distinct differences in their top housing materials that significantly influence the acoustic profiles of each switch. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a choice that endows the switch with a sharper and more resonant sound. This stiffer plastic not only enhances the clarity of the sound produced but also allows for better light diffusion when RGB lighting is present, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, which results in a less sharp acoustic profile. These contrasting materials ultimately represent two different philosophies in switch design: one prioritizes clarity and brightness (polycarbonate) while the other emphasizes warmth and depth (nylon).
Moving to the bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB share nylon as their common material choice. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, allowing for a pleasant typing experience with a more muted acoustic feedback. This similarity means that while the top housing might deliver different sound characteristics—bright and clear from the polycarbonate versus deep and warm from the nylon—both switches can still provide a satisfying experience due to the consistent, absorbent qualities of the nylon in the bottom housing. As such, the bottom housing's contribution to the overall feel and sound is important, and it serves to unify the experience across both switch types, despite their differing top materials.
In summary, the combination of polycarbonate for the HMX 1989's top housing and nylon for the Cherry MX Purple RGB creates a fascinating interplay of sound characteristics. While the differing materials lead to contrasting experiences when pressing the switch—sharp and resonant in the case of the HMX 1989 versus deep and full in the Cherry MX Purple RGB—the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a uniform foundation of sound absorption and richness across both models. For users looking for a balance, understanding how these materials interact can help in selecting a switch that meets their specific acoustic and tactile preferences while highlighting the potential for a harmonious typing experience irrespective of the top housing material used.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of keystroke activation. This could provide a similar typing experience for users who prefer a lighter key feel, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions at work or long gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force differs significantly; the HMX 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains unknown. This means that pressing the 1989 switch all the way down requires more force, giving it an overall heavier feel compared to the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Consequently, those who favor a more substantial typing experience may be inclined towards the HMX 1989 due to its higher bottom out force, while users who prefer a lighter switch might find the Cherry MX Purple RGB appealing, particularly given its unspecified bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they share the same key press distance from top to bottom. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing a key on either switch, making them suitable for similar typing and gaming experiences. Since the travel distance is the same, users might achieve similar results in terms of key actuation and feel, regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 acoustics, which provide a satisfying auditory feedback that many gamers and typists find appealing. The sound profile contributes to a more immersive typing experience, especially on the right keyboard build. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a refined tactile sound that comes with its medium-strength bump, generating a noticeable click without being overly loud. Both switches create distinct audio experiences that can be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard frame and keycap materials used, but the 1989 is generally heavier and deeper compared to the sharper click of the MX Purple.
Regarding feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch gives users a more uniform linear experience, absent the tactile bump, which can facilitate smoother keystrokes ideal for rapid typing or gaming. Its design allows for a more seamless keypress, making it a favorite among those who prefer a glide without interruptions. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a tactile bump that provides feedback during key presses, allowing users to feel when a key has been actuated. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and gives a more traditional mechanical feel that some enthusiasts seek. The difference in feedback and resistance between the two switches makes for varying engagement experiences; while the 1989 may suit those seeking fluidity, the MX Purple is ideal for those who appreciate that tactile cue.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch each serve distinct preferences among mechanical keyboard users. The former excels in deep sound and smooth, linear feel, making it perfect for those wanting a more continuous tactile action. In contrast, the latter provides a refined auditory and tactile experience, catering to enthusiasts who favor tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, it’s possible to achieve similar satisfaction from both by carefully considering the overall keyboard setup, including the choice of board and keycaps, which can enhance sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing style and whether you prioritize linear smoothness or tactile feedback. If you're drawn to a quiet, fluid keystroke that allows for rapid typing and gaming without interruptions, the HMX 1989, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, may be the better choice for you. This switch, known for its pronounced thockiness, caters well to those who enjoy a more understated sound profile while still delivering a satisfying keypress experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides clear tactile feedback to enhance your typing accuracy, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is designed specifically for that purpose, featuring a refined tactile bump that signals when the key is actuated. The tactile experience of this switch is optimized for those who enjoy a distinct click as they type, making it well-suited for both coding and gaming. Remember to consider your environment as well—if you're in a shared space and noise levels are a concern, the smoother, quieter nature of the HMX 1989 could be advantageous. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you desire the stealthy smoothness of a linear switch or the engaging tactile feedback characteristic of Cherry MX Purple switches.
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