HMX Game1989 vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Silver both present compelling options for fans of linear switches, each offering unique characteristics catered to different preferences. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep actuation and thocky sound, making it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile feedback experience reminiscent of older mechanical systems, coupled with a satisfying auditory response. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silver lacks the distinct accolades of its counterpart, it is appreciated for its smooth actuation and quick response, making it a great choice for gamers who prioritize speed and precision without the distraction of noise. Both switches provide smooth keystrokes, but they cater to different user experiences—whether it's the nostalgia and heft of the HMX 1989 or the rapid-fire performance of the Outemu Silver. 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 Silver Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Outemu Silver share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material contributes significantly to the sound profile produced by each switch. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is pressed. For users who appreciate an audible feedback profile, both switches deliver similar results due to their shared top housing material, which is particularly advantageous for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also allows light to shine through effectively, ensuring a vibrant lighting experience.

In contrast, the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Silver both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to notable differences in the sound profile relative to the impact of bottoming out. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more than its harder counterparts, producing a deeper and fuller sound when a key is pressed down. This material choice promotes a rounder sound, as it dampens the acoustic resonation typically associated with stiffer materials. Therefore, while both switches can achieve clear and resonant tones from the top housing, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in defining the overall auditory experience, with nylon offering a more muted and rich timbre.

Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Silver results in a balanced sound profile that caters to diverse user preferences. The shared polycarbonate top housing saves both switches from being overly dull, while the nylon bottom housing mitigates the sharpness often found in purely hard-plastic switches. This dual-material approach leads to a nuanced experience, where the sound produced during keystrokes integrates the clarity of the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon. Thus, while there are differences in the materials utilized, the overall auditory results can be similar, allowing users to enjoy a blend of bright and deep sound qualities in either switch.

Weight

The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means users can expect a similar feel when triggering a keystroke, making them suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without excessive strain. However, the bottom out forces reveal a notable difference; the HMX 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Outemu Silver requires a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the HMX 1989 a lighter option overall, ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, while the Outemu Silver, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, users can expect a consistent feel and responsiveness when using either switch. This parity in travel distance allows for comparable results in terms of performance and overall key actuation, making it easier for users to switch between the two without a noticeable difference in feel. Thus, both switches can be considered equal in this aspect.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep, thocky characteristic, which gives it a satisfying and resonant noise upon actuation. This sound profile enhances the overall typing experience, adding a level of richness that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not come with a widely recognized sound characteristic, making it less notable in this aspect. The overall sound experience will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard plate, housing material, and keycap profile, so while the 1989 may provide a more distinctive auditory feedback, the Silver can still yield an enjoyable sound depending on the build.

When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is expected to deliver a smooth and consistent keystroke, characteristic of high-quality linear switches, with a satisfying resistance that feels well-suited for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch also offers a smooth linear feel but may differ in the force required to actuate, as specifics regarding its tactile feedback are less well-defined. However, both switches should provide a generally smooth experience free of tactile bumps, appealing to users who prefer seamless keystrokes.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out for its deep sound and satisfying feel, the Outemu Silver linear switch, although less characterized, can still provide a smooth typing experience. If users appreciate the distinct auditory qualities of the 1989, they might find the sound environment of the Silver slightly less engaging, but ultimately, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for linear responsiveness in their mechanical keyboards. The choice largely hinges on whether one prefers the thocky resonance of the 1989 or is open to the more understated nature of the Silver.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, your choice should come down to your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you prefer a switch that feels medium-light under your fingers and offers a deeper, thocky sound with satisfying keypress feedback, the HMX 1989 would be an excellent choice, especially for extended gaming sessions or for typing in a quieter environment. On the other hand, if you enjoy a firmer typing experience and are looking for more resistance with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silver linear switch would suit you better. This can be particularly advantageous for fast-paced gaming or if you tend to bottom out your keys. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you favor a softer touch or a firmer press, as well as your desired auditory and tactile feedback while interacting with your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more