HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options stand out: the HMX 1989 and the KTT Orange. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Its design emphasizes a rich acoustics profile and a sense of heft that can enhance the overall typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy feel thanks to their 22mm long spring, and they shine with their polycarbonate milky top housing and a smooth POM stem, providing a slick and frictionless typing experience complemented by a low-pitched sound profile. While the HMX 1989 excels in delivering pronounced feedback that many appreciate, the KTT Orange focuses on a refined and smooth keystroke with minimal friction. Both switches cater to specific preferences—be it for deep sound and tactile sensation or a fluid and airy touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

KTT Orange Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, a choice that significantly influences their acoustic performance. In both cases, the polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This commonality suggests that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience, particularly when it comes to the resonance produced during keystrokes. Importantly, this makes both switches particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal by allowing light to diffuse more vividly through the housing.

However, the housing materials diverge at the bottom. The HMX 1989 features a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for its sound-dampening properties. This choice enables the 1989 to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon's softer composition which absorbs sound more effectively, thereby resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Contrasting this, the KTT Orange adopts a polycarbonate bottom housing. As a result, it inherits the sharp and crisp acoustic characteristics of polycarbonate throughout its entirety. This difference in bottom housing material suggests that while the top portions of both switches will likely produce similar sounds, their bottom-out sounds will be markedly different; the 1989 will yield a softer and muted impact while the Orange will maintain a clear and resonant output.

In essence, the dual-material composition of the HMX 1989 creates a harmonious balance of sound qualities, with nylon softening the overall auditory signature while polycarbonate in the top housing enhances brightness and clarity. On the other hand, the KTT Orange’s uniform material choice in both the top and bottom housing means that its sound profile is more consistently sharp and distinct through both sections. Therefore, while both switches will produce similar results in terms of clarity and brightness from the top, the overall sound profiles will diverge significantly, showcasing the influence of the bottom housing material on the final auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, both switches exhibit similar characteristics, specifically in their bottom out forces, which are identical at 53 grams. However, the actuation force for the HMX 1989 is slightly lighter at 45 grams, while the KTT Orange has a marginally heavier actuation force of 46 grams. This subtle difference in actuation force might lead to a somewhat different typing experience, with the HMX 1989 offering a slightly lighter touch for longer typing sessions, making it potentially more comfortable for extensive use. Conversely, the KTT Orange’s actuation force provides a more substantial feel, which may appeal to users looking for a stronger push. Overall, while both switches share the same bottom out force, the actuation force difference allows for distinct preferences regarding typing experience, weighing in favor of the HMX 1989 for lighter use and the KTT Orange for a heavier feel.

Travel distance

The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the HMX 1989 will provide a deeper and more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange's shorter travel distance is designed for quicker actuation, making it potentially more appealing for gamers looking for faster response times. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the KTT Orange is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas the HMX 1989 is ideal for those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out for its deep, thocky auditory profile, which is characteristic of a bass-heavy tone that many enthusiasts appreciate for its satisfying resonance. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch is noted for its low-pitched sound that leans towards a mellow tone, devoid of harshness. While both switches are quieter than clicky counterparts, the 1989’s thocky nature may provide a slightly more pronounced sound experience. The overall acoustic performance of each switch will, of course, be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard case and the type of keycaps used, making them both unique in their way.

Regarding feel, the HMX 1989 appeals to those who favor a thocky sensation, providing a satisfying push-back that evokes a classic feel, although more specific tactile feedback is not directly provided. On the other hand, the KTT Orange is known for its bouncy characteristic, offering an elastic feedback sensation with lively rebound upon keypress. Additionally, the Orange’s frictionless operation delivers a remarkably smooth and effortless typing experience, enhancing overall fluidity. While the 1989 may not focus on this smoothness, its deep and resonant properties likely contribute to a uniquely pleasurable typing experience.

In summary, while both the HMX 1989 and KTT Orange linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, they both promise a distinct, satisfying experience in their own right. The HMX 1989 leans toward a richer sound with a classic feel, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the KTT Orange excels in smoothness and a lively, bouncy feel. Those choosing between the two will find that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to various typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying experience no matter which one is selected.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, you should consider your typing and gaming preferences. If you're looking for a switch that provides a deep, thocky sound and a satisfying feel, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice, especially for users who appreciate a well-rounded experience during intensive gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch could be more suitable for you. Its lively feedback and smooth action make it ideal for prolonged typing or playful gaming, where a slight spring-back can enhance your responsiveness. Both switches have a similar bottom-out force of 53 grams, making them approachable for various users. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value the thocky acoustic profile and feel of the HMX 1989 or the bouncy, fluid motion of the KTT Orange.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more