HMX 1989 vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between linear and tactile options often dictate the best fit for your typing or gaming experience. The HMX 1989 is a linear switch, renowned for its deep thocky sound profile and smooth actuation, making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking rapid keystrokes and minimal resistance without any tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile feel that provides physical feedback during key presses, perfect for typists who appreciate the satisfying sensation of a bump while typing, promoting accuracy and reducing typing fatigue. Each switch has its unique appeal—while the HMX 1989 excels in a fast-paced gaming environment, the Outemu Brown provides a nuanced typing experience that many find comforting. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Brown switches exhibit a striking similarity in their top housing composition. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the key press sounds, making both switches capable of delivering a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, creating an aesthetically appealing setup for users who prioritize visual customization alongside auditory feedback.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, another shared characteristic. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which shifts the auditory experience into a rounder and duller territory compared to the brighter qualities of polycarbonate. This distinct difference highlights how the dynamics of sound can vary when switching between these materials. As the bottom housing plays a significant role in affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, the use of nylon in both cases ensures that users experience a cushion-like softness when striking the keys, leading to a more pleasant typing experience.
When considering the overall performance of the HMX 1989 and Outemu Brown switches, the interaction between the differing materials in the top and bottom housings reveals how they work together to create a cohesive auditory experience. The combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom allows for a duality in sound production—the polycarbonate contributes to the sharpness on key release while the nylon enriches the impact felt at the bottom of the keystroke. As a result, users can achieve a well-balanced auditory profile that promotes both clarity and warmth, regardless of whether they choose the HMX 1989 or the Outemu Brown switch, underscoring the effectiveness of these housing materials in enhancing the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which may be more suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience that minimizes fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Outemu Brown has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. These differences indicate that the HMX 1989 requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Outemu Brown, making it the lighter option overall. Therefore, users prioritizing ease of use for prolonged sessions might lean towards the HMX 1989, while those favoring a firmer push might opt for the Outemu Brown.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that the distance traveled from the top to the bottom of each switch is identical. As a result, one can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress feel when using either switch, which is beneficial for users seeking a consistent typing experience. Since both switches share the same travel distance, they will provide a comparable actuation experience, making it difficult to distinguish between them based solely on this metric.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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 HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a more substantial acoustic experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is characterized by a subtle yet distinct click, which creates a noticeable sound when the switch is activated. This tactile feedback serves a dual purpose—allowing users to feel when they have actuated the switch while also adding a slight auditory cue. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard construction and keycap choice for both switches.
When considering the feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer uninterrupted key presses. This linear action allows for fluid typing and rapid gaming maneuvers. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch features a tactile bump, providing a clear point of actuation that can enhance typing accuracy and feedback during usage. Users who enjoy the sensation of feeling their key presses will gravitate towards the Brown switch due to this tactile differentiation.
In summary, the HMX 1989 linear switch excels with its deep sound and smooth feel, perfect for those who prioritize a thocky auditory experience and seamless keystrokes. Conversely, the Outemu Brown tactile switch caters to users who appreciate the combination of auditory feedback and tactile sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel. Each switch offers its unique attributes, making it essential for newcomers to consider what aspects are most important for their typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch really depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a smoother, quieter typing experience and prefer a lighter actuation force for less finger fatigue during long writing or gaming sessions, then the HMX 1989 is likely your best bet. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams allows for quicker keystrokes without the resistance you might feel with heavier switches. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a more pronounced key press, the Outemu Brown switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, could be the switch for you. The tactile bump provides satisfying feedback, which can help in avoiding accidental key presses, especially beneficial for typists who prefer to feel when a key has been activated. Therefore, consider your typing style and what you value more in your keyboard experience—smoothness and quietness with the HMX 1989 or tactile response with the Outemu Brown. Ultimately, the right switch will enhance your interaction with your keyboard, so take the time to assess your needs and preferences to make the best choice for you.
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