HMX Game1989 vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the type of feedback and feel you prefer while typing or gaming. The HMX 1989, a linear switch renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, delivers smooth key presses without any tactile bump, making it an excellent option for those who value fluidity and quiet operation, particularly during fast-paced gaming sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a distinct tactile sensation with a pronounced bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience that many enthusiasts relish. Its snappy sound profile adds to the enjoyment, making each keystroke feel more engaging and responsive. While the 1989 is ideal for users seeking seamless performance and a understated auditory experience, the Polaris Purple attracts those who appreciate tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction in their typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their overall sound profiles and aesthetic characteristics. Both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This resemblance indicates that users can expect a similar high-pitched sound when pressing the keys. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is also advantageous for RGB lighting applications, ensuring that the illumination shines brightly through. Therefore, in terms of clarity and resonance, the HMX 1989 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple produce comparable auditory experiences from their respective top housings.
However, the bottom housings of each switch present a stark contrast in materials, which significantly affects the sound and feel of the switches. The HMX 1989 employs nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound and thus produces a mellower auditory experience that stands in contrast to the sharper tones provided by the polycarbonate. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, leading to a consistent sound profile characterized by crispness and clarity in both the stroke and bottom-out sounds. This difference means that while the top housings share similarities, the bottom housings create distinct sound qualities, making the overall typing experience quite different.
The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the final sound and feel of each switch. In the HMX 1989, the nylon bottom housing dominates the experience, providing a rounder sound that softens the sharpness of the polycarbonate top. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Purple, with its polycarbonate bottom, maintains a uniform sound profile that emphasizes clarity and resonance throughout. Therefore, while both switches may excel in their top housing's acoustics, the nylon in the HMX 1989 enriches the experience with depth, whereas the Polaris Purple ensures a cohesive, high-pitched sound throughout. This differentiation leads to distinct user experiences that cater to varying preferences for sound characteristics in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light, which can be preferred for prolonged typing or gaming sessions due to less strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Polaris Purple has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This means that while the 1989 requires less force to actuate and bottom out, the Polaris Purple delivers a heavier, more substantial feel that some typists may favor for its tactile feedback. As such, if you seek a lighter switch for comfort, the HMX 1989 is the better option, while the Polaris Purple is suited for those who prefer a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience identical key travel when pressing either switch. This equal distance results in a similar tactile feedback experience, making both switches feel comparable in terms of actuation. Therefore, if you're looking for consistency in the feel of your keystrokes, either switch would provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 switch is renowned for its deep and thocky character, which appeals to those who enjoy a robust auditory feedback that resonates during typing. This sound profile creates a satisfying and substantial atmosphere, particularly favored for gaming and other immersive experiences. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a snappy sound that strikes a balance with a neutral tone. This neutrality makes them versatile for various environments, making them suitable whether you’re working in a quiet office or at home. Both switches provide a distinct auditory experience, with the 1989 leaning towards a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound compared to the sharper and more refined noise of the Polaris Purple.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989’s attributes are characterized by a uniquely enjoyable typing experience that is both thocky and deep, providing a solid tactile response that many typists appreciate, although specific details about it weren't provided. Contrasting this, the Polaris Purple presents a milder tactile experience, featuring a pronounced bump that adds a playful yet not overwhelming tactile feedback. This switch is polished, resulting in a smooth action that minimizes friction, allowing for an effortless typing experience. Such attributes make the Polaris Purple a welcoming choice for beginners and seasoned typists alike, catering to a wide range of preferences.
In summary, the HMX 1989 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch present two distinct mechanical keyboard experiences. The HMX 1989 excels in producing a deep and immersive sound, complemented by a tactile feedback that is likely robust, while the Polaris Purple offers a snappy and neutral sound alongside a milder, polished feel that many find approachable. While both switches yield enjoyable tactile sensations, their sound profiles set them apart in terms of ambiance, making them suitable for different preferences and settings. Ultimately, if you appreciate a thocky typing experience with substantial auditory feedback, the 1989 may be the better choice, whereas the Polaris Purple would be fitting for those who prefer a more balanced and refined interaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a smoother, more fluid typing experience and prefer a lighter actuation force, the HMX 1989, with its thocky bottom-out sound and medium-light resistance, could be ideal for both gaming and casual typing. This switch excels in environments where a quiet and swift key press is desirable, making it suitable for extended gameplay or lengthy typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a pronounced tactile feedback and a snappier sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch offers a more immersive and engaging typing experience. With its medium-heavy actuation force and exhilarating tactile bump, this switch is well-suited for typists who appreciate clear feedback and a policed, refined feel, whether you’re writing, coding, or simply enjoying the tactile sensations of each keystroke. Consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, as both switches bring unique strengths to your mechanical keyboard experience.
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