HMX Game1989 vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The HMX 1989, a linear switch, is widely recognized for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback. This type of switch is ideal for gamers seeking a quick response time or users who spend long hours typing and prefer a quieter experience. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a tactile experience that is perfect for those who crave pronounced feedback in their keystrokes. It boasts a sharp tactility and a satisfying clack, categorized by descriptors such as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. This punchy switch is designed for users who appreciate the feel of tactile bumps while typing, enhancing both accuracy and satisfaction. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your specific needs.
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), it is evident that each switch employs distinct properties to achieve different sound profiles. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that enhances the presence of RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a more muted and deeper sound. While both switches aim to provide satisfying auditory feedback, the material differences create contrasting listening experiences for the user.
The bottom housings of these switches further delineate their sound characteristics. The HMX 1989 employs nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows it to absorb more sound, consequently yielding a dampened and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 uses a POM bottom housing, mirroring the unique, deeper sound quality that the POM material provides. This shared characteristic highlights the versatility of POM while also demonstrating how different materials in the bottom housing can shape the overall typing experience.
When examining the combined effects of these materials, it is clear that both switches can still yield similarly satisfying results, albeit through different auditory routes. In the HMX 1989, the contrasting materials work in tandem, with the crispness of the polycarbonate top balancing the fuller sound of the nylon bottom. In the Durock POM T1, the uniform use of POM results in a more cohesive sound profile, but it may not achieve the same level of sound complexity. Ultimately, both designs prioritize user experience in different ways, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their specific preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 does not have a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This indicates that the 1989 is easier to press down, making it ideal for users who seek a lighter typing experience for extended periods. Conversely, those who prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial feel would gravitate towards the POM T1. Overall, the HMX 1989 offers a lighter touch, while the Durock POM T1 presents a stronger resistance, catering to differing user preferences in typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on a key with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they are likely to provide comparable feedback and performance in terms of keypress depth. As a result, users seeking consistent key travel experience can confidently choose either switch without concern for variance in this specific aspect.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, distinct differences emerge that influence the overall typing experience. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound, offering a richer auditory resonance that is often favored by fans of linear switches. Meanwhile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a clean and sharp sound, characterized by a resonant high-pitched quality which some users might find immersive. This combination of a higher pitch with a neutral sound adds versatility, making the T1 suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Both switches’ sound can ultimately be affected by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap choice, but they cater to different auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989's characteristics are not specified, but we can look closely at what the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers. The T1 is celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and distinct bump with each keystroke that enhances the typing experience. The tactile nature of this switch is further accentuated by its snappy responsiveness and invigorating feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who thrive on tactile sensations. The defining qualities of the POM T1—sharpness, accented tactility, and an invigorating feel—craft a typing experience that is engaging and satisfying, whereas the HMX 1989's linear nature likely results in a smoother and more consistent keypress without the pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch excels with its deep thocky sound and likely smooth feel, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a sharp, resonant auditory experience coupled with prominent tactile feedback. Your choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you prioritize sound and a tactile experience. If you lean towards a deep sound and smooth linear keypresses, the 1989 is a solid contender, but if you're drawn to an invigorating tactile experience marked by snappy feedback and a clean sound, the T1 may be your best bet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a typing experience that is smooth and linear, with a medium-light actuation force, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a “thocky” bottom-out sound. This makes it suitable for gaming enthusiasts or those who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. However, if you crave pronounced tactile feedback and a firmer response while typing, the Durock POM T1 stands out as the superior option. Its sharp tactility and distinct audible clack make it ideal for typists who want to feel each keypress and enjoy a more invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around whether you prioritize smoothness and speed or rich tactility and feedback; each switch offers a unique experience tailored to different typing styles and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
