HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing or gaming style, the HMX 1989 and the TTC Neptune are two noteworthy options, both classified as linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The HMX 1989 switch, celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, delivers a tactile experience that's perfect for those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch boasts an innovative design that offers an almost frictionless typing experience, complemented by a springy resistance akin to chewy mochi. This makes the Neptune particularly appealing for users seeking a light and effortless keystroke with a softer and more muted acoustic signature. While the 1989 excels in providing a pronounced auditory presence, the Neptune caters to those who value a smooth and subdued typing experience. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the TTC Neptune reveals distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences influenced by their differing compositions. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy vibrant acoustics, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the TTC Neptune showcases a POM top housing that yields a deeper, more muted sound profile. The unique qualities of POM provide a pleasing auditory experience but differ significantly in brightness and resonance compared to the HMX 1989’s polycarbonate.
Examining the bottom housings presents another layer of contrast between the two switches. The HMX 1989 employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer texture of nylon lends itself to absorbing sound, resulting in a more rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the characteristics of crisper sounds attributed to stiffer plastics. This similarity in the bottom housing material introduces a juxtaposition where the Neptune maintains a sharper profile for the bottom-out sound, while its top housing contributes to the duller overall auditory signature. As such, typing experiences on the HMX 1989 and the Neptune can be vastly different, underscoring the influence of material choice not only on sound but also on feel.
Overall, the interplay of both top and bottom housings in each switch elucidates how the combined materials will affect user experience. Users can expect a clearer auditory distinction when typing on the HMX 1989, as its polycarbonate top contrasts with the muted sound from its nylon bottom. Conversely, the TTC Neptune balances its upper and lower components to create a fundamentally different auditory effect. Each component interacts synergistically, demonstrating that nuanced differences in material properties significantly contribute to the distinct characteristics of the switches. By understanding these differences, users can select the switch that aligns most closely with their preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the TTC Neptune linear switch in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, notable differences 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 TTC Neptune offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Neptune switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for users who prefer to type for extended periods with less strain, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. Meanwhile, the HMX 1989, with its slightly heavier forces, caters to those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback while typing. In summary, the HMX 1989 is the heavier option, while the TTC Neptune is the lighter choice, appealing to different preferences in keyboard feel and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the two differ significantly. The HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the HMX 1989 offers a more substantial depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Neptune might cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times and a more agile typing experience. Therefore, if you value quickness and responsiveness in your keystrokes, the TTC Neptune would likely be the preferred option, while the HMX 1989 would be the one to choose for a more traditional and hearty typing sensation.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is best known for its deep and thocky profile, providing a satisfying audio feedback that many enthusiasts find appealing. Although specific descriptors for its sound are not provided, the overall impression is of a rich, full-bodied tone that enhances the tactile experience. In comparison, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound signature, which also leans towards the subdued end of the spectrum. While both switches share a thocky quality, the Neptune emphasizes a more muted and neutral delivery, making it potentially more suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a softer auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is known for its smooth, responsive characteristics that many users would find familiar and comfortable. Although specific descriptors are not mentioned, the overall experience typically aligns with the high expectations of linear switches, which generally provide a consistent keystroke with minimal resistance. The TTC Neptune, on the other hand, features a buttery, frictionless glide paired with a gummy feel that creates a unique typing experience. This switch mimics the sensation of bottoming out on a trampoline, offering a playful bounce that adds an enjoyable element to typing. The Neptune's combination of smoothness and cushiness can make it an attractive option for users who enjoy a slightly more dynamic feel in their keystrokes.
In summary, both the HMX 1989 and TTC Neptune linear switches deliver distinctive auditory and tactile experiences that can suit different preferences. The 1989 offers a deep and satisfying thocky sound, complemented by a smooth feel, while the Neptune combines a muted thock with an innovative structure that provides a frictionless and dynamic typing experience. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to whether one prefers a richer sound with a simple smooth feel or a more complex auditory experience that pairs softness with a unique tactile sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in typing feel, sound profile, and intended usage scenarios. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force combined with a satisfying thocky sound, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice, especially for gamers and those who enjoy a robust auditory feedback while typing. Its deeper, thockier sound signature delivers a more pronounced tactile experience, making it suitable for enthusiasts who favor a heavier keystroke without it being overly taxing. On the other hand, if you’re seeking an incredibly light and effortless typing experience, the TTC Neptune switch is likely to serve you better. Its innovative, frictionless design offers a buttery glide with a unique gummy feel, reminiscent of squishy textures, making it ideal for long typing sessions without fatigue. The Neptune's lighter actuation force and muted sound profile make it an excellent fit for quieter environments like offices or shared spaces. In essence, your decision should reflect your desired balance between sound and feel, as well as the type of tasks you anticipate performing on your keyboard.
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