HMX Game1989 vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options stand out: the HMX 1989, a linear switch celebrated for its deep thock sound and unique feel, and the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch that offers a distinct feedback sensation with every keystroke. The HMX 1989 is particularly favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted key press, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming and prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean appeals to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience, providing satisfying tactile bumps that signal when a key has been actuated, which can enhance typing accuracy and overall enjoyment. While the HMX 1989 might be the go-to for enthusiasts seeking a linear feel, the Outemu Ocean offers an engaging tactile experience for users who prioritize feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Ocean both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in noteworthy similarities in sound profile and aesthetic qualities. Both switches benefit from the inherent characteristics of polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This quality is a result of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, allowing for better resonance and clarity in sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of these switches, especially for users who prefer RGB lighting. In instances where the transparent top housing is featured, users can expect a vibrant illumination that showcases the lighting effects more vividly.
On the other hand, both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Ocean employ nylon as the material for their bottom housing, lending another layer of similarity in their sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder audio characteristic that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The combination of these two materials in both switches allows for a unique audio experience—where the crisper sounds generated from the polycarbonate top are balanced out by the softer, more subdued sounds from the nylon bottom.
The differences between the two housing types stem more from their roles than their materials, as both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Ocean share the same basic approaches. When utilizing switches from either model, users can expect a nuanced typing experience shaped by the interplay of sounds produced by their distinct housings. With the polycarbonate upper housing delivering brightness upon key release and the nylon lower housing softening the impact of keystrokes, the overall auditory feedback is a blend of crisp highs and warm lows. Thus, even though certain key characteristics are influenced by the choice of materials, the end results in terms of sound and feel across both switch models remain remarkably similar.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX 1989 linear switch is 45 grams, making it a medium-light option that is ideal for those who prefer a lighter keyboard feel, promoting longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch requires a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial, forceful typing experience. While the bottom out force of the HMX 1989 is 53 grams, providing a definitive feedback when the key is fully pressed, the bottom out force for the Ocean switch is currently unavailable, leaving a gap in comparison for that specific metric. Given the information, the HMX 1989 is the lighter switch, catering well to those who value comfort over extended use, while the Outemu Ocean's heavier actuation force may be preferred by typists seeking tactile and auditory feedback.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide an equal feel when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect comparable typing experiences with both switches. Since they both travel the same distance from top to bottom, switching between the two should yield similar results in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness. Thus, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, allowing for a consistent feel across both options.
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 Outemu Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky character, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciate a robust auditory feedback while typing or gaming. This quality contributes to an engaging experience, particularly for those who enjoy the resonance of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch doesn't have a widely recognized reputation for its sound characteristics, leaving its auditory profile a bit of an unknown in comparison. It's essential to note that the acoustic qualities of any switch can be affected by factors such as the keyboard design and the type of keycaps used, meaning both switches may produce different sounds depending on their specific setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is optimized for a smooth linear experience. This means that users can expect a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or resistance, making it ideal for rapid key presses and long typing sessions. Conversely, the tactile nature of the Outemu Ocean switch suggests it has a defined bump that provides feedback to the user during each keystroke. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a bit of feedback but can also lead to a different overall sensation compared to the buttery smoothness of the 1989.
In summary, the HMX 1989 linear switch excels in producing a deep, thocky sound and offers a fluid typing experience, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch introduces a tactile bump, though its sound profile remains uncertain. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between them, as enthusiasts may find satisfaction in either the smooth linear feedback of the 1989 or the tactile sensation offered by the Ocean. If one prioritizes sound, the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps can help tailor the experience to their liking, potentially aligning the performance of either switch with their expectations.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you favor a smooth and deep typing experience with a satisfying thock sound, the HMX 1989, with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, is an excellent choice. It's particularly suitable for gamers and typists who appreciate a soft but responsive feel without the distraction of tactile bumps. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback with a unique sensation while typing, the Outemu Ocean is worth considering, especially if you enjoy the sensation of a tactile bump that can enhance your typing rhythm. Although the Ocean's specifications may be less defined, its differentiating qualities can provide a pleasing experience for those who prefer tactile engagement over a linear action. Therefore, reflect on your personal typing style, sound preferences, and the kind of feedback that resonates with you most to make the best choice between these two intriguing switches.
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