HMX Game1989 vs. Outemu Cream Yellow

Overview

When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the HMX 1989, a linear switch, and the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke that is great for gamers seeking rapid response times without the distraction of tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow offers a tactile feel that allows typists to experience a slight feedback bump on each keystroke, catering to those who appreciate the tactile confirmation when typing or gaming. While the HMX 1989 is ideal for uninterrupted typing and gaming experiences, the Cream Yellow stands out for users who prefer a more engaging and responsive feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Cream Yellow, a notable distinction arises between their top housings. The 1989 utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality not only enhances the acoustic clarity but also complements RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cream Yellow employs nylon for its top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's inherent softness, which absorbs more sound and results in a rounder acoustic output. Thus, while both switches may deliver satisfying auditory feedback, their tonal qualities diverge significantly based on the top housing material.

Regarding the bottom housing, both the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Cream Yellow feature nylon. This similarity means that both switches will provide a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed down. The nylon composition of the bottom housing introduces a dullness that dulls higher-pitched frequencies, ensuring that both switches maintain a harmonious acoustic signature when bottoming out. This commonality in material will lead to comparable tactile experiences as the bottoming sound will be rounded and less piercing, contributing to an overall softer auditory response when typing.

Ultimately, the differing materials of the top housings will influence the sound profiles of each switch, while their identical nylon bottom housings ensure a consistent tactile experience when bottoming out. When engaging with either switch, users can expect the high-pitched, clear sound characteristic of the 1989's polycarbonate top to contrast with the fuller, deeper sound produced by the Cream Yellow's nylon top. However, the nylon bottom housing's influence guarantees that their overall experiences in terms of feel and roundness from the bottoming action will be similar. As such, while each switch has its unique sound signature, the use of nylon in the bottom housing helps unify their tactile performance.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive when it comes to registering a keystroke. This similarity can contribute to a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, there is a notable difference in their bottom out forces, with the HMX 1989 requiring 53 grams to bottom out, while the Cream Yellow necessitates a heavier 60 grams. This means that although both switches feel similar during the actuation, the Cream Yellow switch offers a more substantial push upon bottoming out, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the HMX 1989 is considered the lighter option overall, especially when factoring in both the actuation and bottom out forces, while the Outemu Cream Yellow provides a heavier, more tactile feedback for users seeking a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow measures 3.3 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow the shorter option, ideal for gamers or those who prioritize quick response times, as shorter travel distances allow for faster actuation. Conversely, the HMX 1989, with its longer travel distance, is better suited for individuals who appreciate a more substantial feel with each keystroke. This difference highlights the preference for either a brisk or a more deliberate typing experience, depending on the user's needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a rich auditory experience while typing or gaming. This quality is particularly enhanced when paired with appropriate keycaps and a suitable keyboard chassis, which can amplify its thockiness and provide a satisfying acoustic response. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a widely recognized sound characteristic, but it’s important to note that sound can vary widely depending on factors like the keyboard and keycap combination used. While the exact auditory signature of the Cream Yellow may be less defined, users can still achieve pleasant sound results by choosing compatible components.

When it comes to the feel of each switch, the HMX 1989 offers a smooth linear actuation that is generally linear in nature, giving users an uninterrupted keystroke experience. This makes it particularly appealing for those who desire fluid key presses without the interruption of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow tactile switch provides a noticeable tactile bump during actuation, allowing the user to feel when the key has registered. This tactile feedback can be advantageous for typists who prefer a more pronounced confirmation of their keystrokes. As such, the differences in feel are significant, catering to distinct preferences—linear enthusiasts may gravitate towards the 1989, while typists who appreciate tactile feedback may lean towards the Cream Yellow.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch excels in delivering a deep, thocky sound and a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch stands out for its tactile feedback, albeit with less emphasis on sound. These switches cater to different user preferences; thus, choosing between them largely depends on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when making your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing feel and sound experience. If you lean towards a more pronounced thocky sound and deeper keystrokes, the HMX 1989 switch, with its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams, would likely enhance your gaming or typing experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that offers a satisfying sound profile, making it excellent for both gaming and casual typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a tactile feel without the added noise of a click, the Cream Yellow switch might be the better option for you. With its medium actuation force of 60 grams, you’ll get a more substantial feel during typing while benefiting from the satisfaction of tactile feedback to signal key presses, making it ideal for heavy typists or those who appreciate a physical response. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing habits and desired sound profile, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is tailored to your unique preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more