HMX Game1989 vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Haimu Neo White offer two compelling yet distinct choices for typists and gamers alike. The HMX 1989, recognized for its deep thocky sound profile, is part of the HMX Film switch series and is ideal for users who seek a tactile and immersive auditory feedback while typing. This switch excels in environments where sound is not a concern, making it a favorite among gamers who crave a powerful and resonant keypress. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White features a unique Ly stem, providing a medium-weight actuation and a slightly reduced total travel distance that many users find appealing for its smoothness and quick responsiveness. Categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral,' this switch is perfect for those who prioritize a smooth and satisfying typing experience without the pronounced acoustics of the HMX 1989. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so whether you desire the rich auditory feedback of the HMX 1989 or the buttery smoothness of the Neo White, your choice will depend on your personal needs. However, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Neo White utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly influences their auditory characteristics. The polycarbonate material is known for imparting a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its rigidity. This stiffer plastic contributes to generating crisp and high-pitched sounds when the switch is activated. The appeal of polycarbonate also extends to aesthetics; its translucency is ideal for RGB lighting, allowing the illuminated effects to shine through. As a result, both switches promise a similar auditory experience during use, characterized by clarity and brightness, appealing to users who value detailed sound profiles in their mechanical switches.
In contrast, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which plays a crucial role in the overall sound experience. Nylon is recognized as a classic material in the switch housing landscape, and its softer composition lends itself to producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike the polycarbonate top housing, which accentuates higher frequencies, the nylon bottom housing effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory feedback. This opposing quality means that with both switches, while the top housing might elevate the sharpness and clarity, the bottom housing will ground that sound into something richer and fuller upon bottoming out.
When considering the combined effects of both housing materials, one can see how the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Neo White create a cohesive sound experience despite their material similarities and differences. The polycarbonate top housing of each switch enhances the higher frequencies, contributing to the brightness perceived during key releases. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing mitigates and softens this sound, enriching the auditory experience with warmth and depth when a key is pressed down. Together, these materials create a balanced and satisfying typing experience, with each component of the switch synergizing to produce distinctive sound qualities without losing coherence.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, while the actuation force of the Neo White is unspecified, it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is classified as medium. Consequently, we can conclude that the Neo White is heavier overall, especially given its bottom out force exceeds that of the 1989. Users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Neo White for its firmer feedback, whereas those seeking a lighter switch will likely favor the 1989 for its lower actuation force. If the actuation force of the Neo White were to be revealed and found to be similar to that of the HMX 1989, users could anticipate a comparable typing experience; however, as it stands, the HMX 1989 is the clear choice for a lighter feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, the differences are quite noticeable. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the most traditional travel distance considered ideal for many typists who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their key presses. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time, which is often favored by gamers looking for efficiency in their movements. Therefore, if you opt for the HMX 1989, you’ll experience a more pronounced key press, while the Haimu Neo White provides a faster, more responsive feel—a choice that might be beneficial for fast-paced gaming. Ultimately, those seeking a deeper key press should gravitate toward the HMX 1989, while those who prioritize speed might prefer the Haimu Neo White.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 characterized by its deep and thocky texture, making it quite pronounced in auditory feedback during typing. This quality not only enhances the tactile experience but also provides a satisfying acoustic element that many users find appealing. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is noted for its neutral sound. This creates a moderate sound profile, making it adaptable for various environments, whether at home or in a workplace. Overall, while the 1989 delivers a more resonant and thocky experience, the Neo White offers a subtler, less intrusive sound, making it suitable for different user preferences.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a deeply immersive tactile experience, often described as smooth and satisfying, although specific characteristics weren't detailed. The focus of the typing experience is on depth and the ‘thock’ sound, encouraging a more impactful keypress. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch is designed for a medium-weight feel with slightly reduced total travel, allowing for a gentle typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. This gives it a smooth actuation owing to its unique Ly stem, making it approachable yet enjoyable for everyday typing tasks. Thus, while the 1989 emphasizes a deeper engagement, the Neo White leans towards a more comfort-oriented approach.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Haimu Neo White linear switches offer distinct qualities tailored to different preferences. The 1989 is perfect for users seeking a thocky sound and a deeper typing experience, making it ideal for a more immersive engagement with each keystroke. Conversely, the Neo White presents a more neutral sound and a mild feel, suitable for those who prioritize a gentle, versatile typing experience. Ultimately, while they cater to different preferences in sound and feel, both switches promise satisfying results, ensuring that newcomers can find what suits them best.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and intended use. If you value a deeper thocky sound and a slightly lighter actuation with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 may be your best bet, particularly if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience that provides both feedback and satisfaction. This switch is especially appealing for gaming due to its responsiveness, making it ideal for competitive play where quick reflexes matter. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more neutral experience with a medium actuation force of 58 grams, the Haimu Neo White switch would be the better choice. Its smooth keystrokes and a mild profile cater well to both typing and gaming, striking a balance that’s approachable for both newcomers and experienced users alike. If you tend to use your keyboard in various environments or want a versatile switch that can transition between gaming and typing with ease, the Neo White's characteristics will serve you well. Ultimately, align your choice with the feel, sound, and actuation force that suits your typing style and lifestyle.
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