HMX Game1989 vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Red both stand out as popular linear options, each catering to different preferences and play styles. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep and satisfying thock sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a robust acoustic feedback without the tactile bump. In contrast, the Outemu Red is often favored for its smooth keystrokes and lighter actuation force, which can facilitate faster typing and gaming responses. These switches provide distinct experiences: the HMX 1989 promises a fuller audio experience, while the Outemu Red focuses on speed and ease of use. 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

Outemu Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Outemu Red share a remarkable similarity in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice in material results in a sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer composition. This stiffer plastic contributes to a clearer and more resonant audio experience over other materials, making them ideal choices for switches that are designed to showcase RGB lighting due to their translucency. Whether you're considering the HMX 1989 or the Outemu Red, you can expect a similar acoustic performance from the top housing, which enhances the overall typing experience with a bright, clear sound every time a key is pressed.

Conversely, the bottom housing materials of the HMX 1989 and Outemu Red are aligned as well, with both switches made from nylon. This classic choice offers a stark contrast to the polycarbonate used in the top housing. Typing on either switch results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, attributed to nylon's softer texture that absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This characteristic not only creates a more muted acoustics but also serves to deepen the overall auditory response felt when bottoming out the key. Therefore, both switches harmonize the flexible sound characteristics from nylon at the bottom with the crisp clarity of polycarbonate at the top, creating a balanced auditory experience.

When considering the interplay of these materials, it is evident that while the top and bottom housings of the HMX 1989 and Outemu Red provide different acoustic properties, together they form a cohesive sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing delivers clarity and brightness during key release, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a rounded and deeper sound upon key actuation. This segmentation of sound characteristics means that users will enjoy a nuanced typing experience, with both switches creating similar auditory results in their respective sound profiles. As a result, the choice between the two largely hinges on personal preference rather than significant differences in performance.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with the Outemu Red linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, leading to a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red has a slightly heavier actuation force at 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium. As such, the HMX 1989 offers a lighter overall feel, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Outemu Red provides a firmer keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. If a user desires a softer touch for comfort during long hours, the HMX 1989 may be the better choice, whereas the Outemu Red might attract those who favor a sturdier response in their switches.

Travel distance

The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance of key travel for both switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches will provide comparable tactile and auditory feedback, leading to a uniform typing experience. As a result, users looking for a consistent feel between the two switches will not notice a difference in how far they need to press the keys for them to register. In summary, since both switches share the same travel distance, they will yield similar results in terms of performance and feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky qualities, providing a satisfying, resonant sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate for its tactile resonance. In contrast, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific distinctions or a dedicated reputation in regards to sound characteristics, which may suggest a more subdued auditory experience. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced significantly by the particular keyboard construction, including materials and design, as well as the keycaps utilized.

When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is celebrated for offering a smooth and plush experience, ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming alike. The Outemu Red shares a similar characteristic as a linear switch, usually presenting a straightforward and smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback. This means that both switches aim for a linear feel, allowing users to experience fluid and uninterrupted actuation without distraction.

In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Red linear switches provide smooth keystrokes characteristic of linear switches; however, the 1989 stands out with its thocky sound profile, making it appealing to users who prioritize auditory feedback alongside a smooth feel. While the Outemu Red does not emphasize distinct sound qualities, users of either switch can expect a relatively similar typing and gaming feel, with sound performance largely dependent on the assembled keyboard's design and materials.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, your personal preferences and typing or gaming style will play pivotal roles. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 53 grams that provides a satisfying thocky sound and feel, the HMX 1989 would be an excellent choice. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers who may benefit from quicker actuation and enhanced feedback during intense sessions. On the other hand, if you find comfort in a slightly heavier switch, the Outemu Red, with its 62 grams of bottom-out force, may suit you better, especially if you're looking for a more traditional linear experience without the unique characteristics of the HMX switches. While Red switches often lack any standout reputation for a specific tactile sensation, their medium feel can be ideal for those who appreciate a straightforward, consistent typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities, whether that be a responsive gameplay environment or a more standard and reliable typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more