HMX Game1989 vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Akko Penguin represent two distinct philosophies in switch design, each catering to different user preferences. The HMX 1989, known for its unique thocky sound profile and deep actuation, excels in providing a satisfying, linear typing experience that many gamers and typists crave. This switch delivers smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for users seeking rapid key presses and less resistance during fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches introduce a silent tactile experience that is perfect for office settings. They feature a rounded tactile bump that offers gentle yet satisfying feedback while keeping noise levels to a minimum. With their medium weight, the Penguins provide a comfortable balance for extended typing without unnecessary fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: whether you favor the linear smoothness of the HMX 1989 or the tactile, muted response of the Akko Penguins. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Akko Penguin, the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The HMX 1989 employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and translucence. This material offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it particularly effective when used in conjunction with RGB lighting. Users can expect a more resonant sound experience as the polycarbonate allows for a vibrant sonic signature, especially during key releases. In contrast, the Akko Penguin features a nylon top housing, known for its softer and more absorbent nature. This variance in material leads to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, providing a rounder acoustic experience with less sharpness. Thus, while the HMX 1989’s design provides clarity and brightness, the Penguin leans towards warmth and depth in sound.
On the other hand, both the HMX 1989 and Akko Penguin share the same housing material for their bottom housings: nylon. This consistency means that both switches will deliver similar characteristics regarding sound and feel when bottoming out. The nylon material contributes to a softer typing experience, absorbing sound and reducing noise, which results in a deeper bottom-out sound. Because both switch designs utilize nylon in this aspect, users can expect a comparable tactile feel when pressing down the keys, leading to a satisfying experience regardless of the top housing differences. This shared element lends a degree of uniformity in performance, particularly when it comes to the interaction between the keypress and the base impact.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of these two switches create contrasting sound profiles while maintaining similarity in their bottom housings. Users seeking a crisp and bright auditory feedback will likely prefer the HMX 1989, while those who favor a warmer experience may gravitate toward the Akko Penguin. Despite these distinctions, the nylon bottom in both switches allows them to deliver complementary qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Thus, while the HMX 1989 and Akko Penguin may cater to different preferences in sound due to their top housings, they share enough in their foundational material to ensure that both deliver an enjoyable and distinctive typing sensation.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch that may appeal to users looking for less resistance for long typing sessions. Conversely, the Akko Penguin has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, but its bottom out force is heavier at 60 grams. This means while both switches have relatively close actuation forces, the Penguin demands more effort when fully bottomed out, offering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, for users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged use, the HMX 1989 would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a heftier key feel might lean towards the Akko Penguin despite its heavier bottoming out experience. Overall, the differences highlight a trade-off between a lighter typing experience and a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges: the HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Akko Penguin features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The longer travel distance of the HMX 1989 aligns with traditional preferences, providing a deeper, more substantial feel during key presses, which some users may appreciate for its feedback. Conversely, the Akko Penguin's 3.3 mm travel distance caters to those who favor a quicker, more responsive action, often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, whether one opts for the HMX 1989 or the Akko Penguin will depend on their personal preference for depth versus responsiveness in key feel.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 stands out for its deep and thocky tonal quality, often delivering a resonant experience that many enthusiasts find exceptionally satisfying. This pronounced sound can create an immersive typing environment, particularly appealing in a gaming context or for users who enjoy auditory feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a distinctly muted profile, designed specifically for quieter operation. Its sound is characterized as neutral, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise control is essential, such as offices or shared spaces. The differences in sound are quite pronounced, with the 1989 catering to those who appreciate auditory feedback while the Penguin focuses on minimizing sound without sacrificing a satisfying typing sensation.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 offers a smooth and linear typing experience, which allows for swift key presses without the distinct tactile feedback you'd find in tactile switches. This linear feel can be particularly appealing for gaming or typing at high speeds without interruptions. Conversely, the Akko Penguin switches feature a rounded tactile bump that provides noticeable feedback during each keystroke. This tactile response is complemented by the polished and mild characteristics of the switch, allowing for a smooth typing experience that is also gentle on the fingers. The medium weight of the Penguin supports prolonged usage, effectively reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the 1989 emphasizes speed and fluidity, the Penguin delivers a balanced feel with tactile engagement and comfort.
In conclusion, both switches cater to distinctly different preferences and environments. The HMX 1989 linear switch is ideal for users who enjoy a deeper, thocky sound and smooth linear feel, making it suitable for gaming and satisfying audio experiences. Meanwhile, the Akko Penguin tactile switch excels in noise-sensitive settings, providing a quiet yet tactile and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and fluidity or a subdued, tactile engagement in your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch largely depends on your specific typing needs and environment. If you are looking for a switch that delivers a thocky, deep sound with a medium-light feel, ideal for gaming where responsiveness is key, then the HMX 1989 may be the perfect fit. Its unique design caters to those who prioritize sound and tactile feedback during gameplay. On the other hand, if you require a quieter option for a more versatile typing experience—especially in shared or professional environments—the Akko Penguin tactile switch is the way to go. With its polished feel and muted sound, it excels in minimizing noise while providing a satisfying tactile bump that enhances your overall typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prefer a robust auditory response for gaming sessions or a refined, quieter experience for daily productivity.
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