HMX Game1989 vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can greatly affect your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Orange Sea, both of which are linear switches. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its depth and pronounced thocky sound, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who enjoy a more tactile feedback without the clicky noise associated with other switch types. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea offers an impeccably smooth typing experience, combined with a neutral sound signature that appeals to those who prefer understated acoustics. While both switches provide the benefits of a linear feel—excellent for rapid keystrokes and minimal resistance—their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX 1989's robust thock and the sleekly quiet Orange Sea hinges on personal preference. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Haimu Orange Sea switches utilize the same materials for their top housings, both being crafted from polycarbonate. This shared characteristic results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the inherent properties of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that enhances sound clarity and resonance. Furthermore, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, which cater to aesthetic preferences in gaming and mechanical keyboard setups. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory experience and visual appeal from both switches, reinforcing the effectiveness of polycarbonate in achieving a desirable sound profile.
While both switches feature identical polycarbonate top housings, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. Both the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Orange Sea incorporate nylon as the bottom housing material, which contributes to a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon’s softer consistency means it absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a rounded and dulled auditory feedback—a contrast to the crisp tones generated by the top housing. This complementary relationship between the stiffer top housing and softer bottom housing results in a nuanced auditory experience that balances the sharpness of the top with the depth of the bottom during use.
In synthesizing these materials, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and the nylon bottom creates a multi-dimensional sound profile that highlights the unique properties of each material. When a switch is activated, the impact of the nylon bottom is felt first, contributing to the overall tactile experience, while the polycarbonate top becomes influential when the key is released, affecting the sound produced. Hence, users of the HMX 1989 and Haimu Orange Sea can anticipate a coherent and harmonious performance that merges the sharp and clear qualities of polycarbonate with the deeper, fuller characteristics of nylon. This material combination not only exemplifies the craftsmanship in switch design but also ensures a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea 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, while the Haimu Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Orange Sea a more suitable option for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, the 1989, with its heavier forces, may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches result in distinct typing experiences; the lighter Orange Sea allows for quicker, less fatiguing keystrokes, while the HMX 1989 provides a firmer resistance that some users may find more satisfying. Overall, the Haimu Orange Sea can be classified as the lighter option, whereas the HMX 1989 is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The HMX 1989 boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard, offering a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to users who prefer a quicker response time, particularly in gaming scenarios. This shorter distance may be more suitable for those who value speed, while the longer 4 mm travel of the HMX 1989 can provide a more satisfying depth for users who enjoy a heftier keystroke feel. Therefore, if you're inclined towards quickness, the Haimu Orange Sea would be the recommended choice, whereas those who appreciate a deeper typing experience may find the HMX 1989 more to their liking.
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 Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known for its deep and thocky acoustics, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. This characteristic gives it a substantial auditory presence, which can be particularly satisfying during intense gaming sessions or typing marathons. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a neutral sound signature, resulting in a more subdued and less pronounced audio feedback. This may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience, allowing for focus without the distraction of clicking or thocky sounds. It’s essential to remember that the overall sound of either switch can be influenced by the keyboard case, mounting style, and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its depth and thockiness, translating to a tactile experience that many users find satisfying and enjoyable. This switch is excellent for those seeking a solid and robust keystroke with distinctive feedback. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is renowned for its impeccably smooth typing feel, allowing for effortless key presses without any resistance or bump. This smoothness contributes to a polished experience that can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for users who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes.
In summary, while both the HMX 1989 and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches offer unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The 1989 excels with its deep and thocky sound and robust typing experience, whereas the Orange Sea provides a smooth feel and a neutral auditory profile. Depending on your typing style and environment, you can choose either switch for a pleasant experience, as they each deliver their own distinct yet satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenario. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation with a "thocky" sound profile and deeper keypress feel, the HMX 1989 is an excellent fit for you, especially if you're into gaming or typing where feedback enhances your experience. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams offers enough resistance for those who enjoy a more tactile response without being overly tiring during extended use. On the other hand, if you seek an exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a lighter touch, the Haimu Orange Sea may be the better choice. With a bottom-out force of only 45 grams and a neutral sound signature, it’s ideal for long typing sessions, casual gaming, or workflow tasks where speed and quietness are priorities. In the end, consider what feels most comfortable and effective for your specific applications, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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