HMX Game1989 vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly in terms of sound and feel. The HMX 1989 switch stands out as the deepest and thockiest option within the HMX Film switch series, providing a rich auditory experience that many gamers and typists find deeply satisfying. Its linear design ensures a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, which can be beneficial for those who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are renowned for their lively, crisp sound signature, thanks to their long pole design. This switch also boasts a smooth actuation while delivering a snappy response, making it ideal for users who enjoy both auditory feedback and rapid typing or gaming sessions. While both switches are linear and provide a seamless experience, their distinctive sound profiles and unique characteristics cater to different user preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro present a fascinating contrast that significantly influences the auditory experience and typing feel of the switches. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This quality stems from polycarbonate's stiff properties, enabling a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is thicker and absorbs sound more readily, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in top housing materials means that users can expect distinct auditory experiences: while the HMX 1989 offers brighter, more articulate sounds during keystrokes, the V3 Piano Pro aims for a smoother, more rounded acoustic signature.
Regarding the bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and Akko V3 Piano Pro employ nylon materials, which contributes similarly to their sound profiles. Nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a more muted keystroke experience. Thus, regardless of the differences in top housing materials, both switches provide a depth of sound characteristic of nylon in their bottom housings. The deep and full sound profile achieved by both keyboards from their nylon bottoms means that users will experience a satisfying auditory feedback when bottoming out, as both designs capitalize on nylon's acoustic properties for a more subdued typing sound.
In conclusion, the combination of polycarbonate in the HMX 1989's top housing and nylon in both the HMX 1989's and Akko V3 Piano Pro's bottom housings leads to distinct results in auditory feedback and feel. Users can expect brighter sounds from the HMX 1989 due to the polycarbonate top, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro will deliver a more rounded auditory experience through its nylon top. Nonetheless, both keyboards share the commonality of nylon in the lower housing, ensuring that they offer users a pleasing, fuller, and deeper sound when actuating the switches. This blend of materials ultimately allows for a unique yet coherent typing experience across both models, paving the way for sound personalization depending on the user's preferences.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch share a similar actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience when it comes to keystroke activation, making either switch suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without excessive strain. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the 1989’s 53 grams. This slight difference means that while both switches are medium-light, the V3 Piano Pro may provide a slightly more substantial feel when the switch is fully pressed down, which some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Overall, the HMX 1989 is marginally lighter in terms of bottom out force, appealing to those who appreciate a softer landing, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a firmer resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we find a distinct difference between the two. The HMX 1989 features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the 1989 the switch with the longer travel distance, which may offer a more substantial feel when typing, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro caters to users who favor quicker response times, commonly sought after by gamers or those who desire a more immediate feedback in their typing experience. Thus, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences influenced by their travel distances, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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 is widely praised for its deep and thocky profile, which creates a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts seek in a mechanical keyboard. This characteristically rich sound not only enhances the typing experience but also conveys a sense of stability and weightiness with each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a more vibrant auditory experience, characterized by its snappy and clacky sound. This switch’s design promotes a higher-pitched, resonant tone that accentuates the crispness of each key press. The Piano Pro's sound profile thus delivers a lively, engaging experience that contrasts with the deeper thocks of the 1989, ensuring that each typing session is accompanied by distinct and enjoyable auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is recognized for its solid actuation that reinforces the sense of stability and control. Although specific details about its tactile qualities are not provided, the switch's reputation suggests a smooth and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is celebrated for its bouncy and creamy characteristics, delivering a responsive and energetic feel. This switch is designed to provide an elastic feedback sensation that welcomes rebound, making each keystroke lively and dynamic. The creamy notes in its feel, often attributed to factory lubing, lend a silky touch that ensures effortless typing. In essence, the Piano Pro favors a more spirited typing experience compared to the potentially more subdued stability of the 1989.
In summary, while the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a deeper auditory experience with a solid feel that emphasizes control, the Akko V3 Piano Pro excites with its crisp, snappy sound and lively, smooth tactile feedback. Selecting between the two will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and feel; those drawn to robust, thocky sounds and stable keystrokes may lean towards the 1989, while aficionados looking for lively, bright sounds coupled with a joyful typing experience might favor the V3 Piano Pro. Each switch has its unique charm and character that can enhance the overall typing experience, showcasing the rich diversity available in the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that provides a unique auditory experience combined with a lively feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be the ideal choice. Its snappy sound signature paired with the bouncy and silky feel enhances both the typing experience and the enjoyment of your keystrokes, making it particularly suitable for gaming and music production where responsiveness and feedback are crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, thocky sound with a distinct feel, the HMX 1989 switch would be a great fit. This switch excels in providing that rich auditory experience, making it perfect for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile when typing. In essence, your choice should align with whether you seek a crisp, lively feedback or a deeper, more resonant sound, both of which offer unique advantages tailored to different typing experiences.
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