HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound profile, offers a smooth keystroke that many gamers and typists appreciate for its quiet operation and lack of tactile feedback. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a seamless and uninterrupted experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is celebrated for its distinctive high-pitched click sound, providing both a tactile and auditory response that many find satisfying and invigorating. The switch strikes a perfect balance between light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, making it a favorite for those who enjoy feedback with each press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: whether you prioritize the smooth, quiet nature of a linear switch or the engaging feedback of a clicky switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the KTT Purple Click both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience when typing. As outlined in their respective descriptions, the use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This property stems from the material's inherent stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sounds produced when keys are pressed. Additionally, both switches capitalize on the translucent qualities of polycarbonate, making them particularly advantageous for setups that utilize RGB lighting. Thus, both switches share the ability to deliver a visually striking and sonically rich experience, appealing to users who value aesthetics alongside performance.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the HMX 1989 and KTT Purple Click are made from nylon, a classic choice in switch construction that adds depth to the sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic nature allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio output. This characteristic provides a complementary effect to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Consequently, while both switches utilize the same materials for their bottom housings, they manage to create a well-rounded auditory experience by balancing the brightness of the top housing with the warmth of the nylon bottoms.
In summary, while the HMX 1989 and KTT Purple Click share the same materials in their respective housings, the combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom allows them to produce a nuanced sound profile. The polycarbonate top contributes clarity and sharpness, whereas the nylon bottom lends depth and warmth. When these two materials work in tandem, they create a unique typing experience that capitalizes on the strengths of both materials. Therefore, using these switches interchangeably could yield similar sound results, as their designs harmoniously blend the properties of both housing materials, making them ideal for users seeking both vibrant aesthetics and varied acoustic feedback.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both offer medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, but they present nuanced differences suitable for various typing preferences. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier than the KTT Purple Click, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams but a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the HMX 1989 requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke, the difference in bottom out force is negligible, as both are within a similar range of medium-light typing experience. Users seeking a lighter feel might prefer the KTT Purple Click for a more effortless actuation, making it better suited for extended typing sessions. In contrast, those who appreciate a firmer resistance might find the HMX 1989's heavier actuation to be more substantial and satisfying. Ultimately, these differences can help guide users in selecting a switch that best fits their typing style and ergonomic needs.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on each key. Since both switches have an identical travel distance, you can expect comparable results in terms of keypress depth and travel sensitivity. This uniformity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience, regardless of which switch is chosen.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky acoustics, reminiscent of classic mechanical switches that produce a satisfying and muted thump upon actuation. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched, crunchy sound, often likened to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch also features a resonant quality that creates a sharp and clean auditory experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy an engaging sound while typing. Both switches can be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, but they occupy significantly different auditory spectra, appealing to distinct preferences among typists.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 offers an unparalleled smoothness typical of linear switches, providing a seamless keystroke experience devoid of tactile bumps. This makes it ideal for those who favor a quieter and more fluid typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is invigorating, delivering pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. Its stepped tactile nature allows for a clear distinction between pre-travel and post-travel stages, resulting in a typing experience that feels responsive and engaging without being overwhelming. Thus, the differences in feel between these two switches cater to varied typing styles: smoothness versus textured engagement.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a thocky and deep sound with a smooth feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch will suit your preferences exceptionally well. Conversely, if you enjoy a high-pitched, resonant sound coupled with invigorating tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Click switch will be more appealing. While the two offer distinct auditory and physical experiences, they both provide unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in mechanical keyboards, highlighting the diversity available within the realm of switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with deeper, thockier sounds that might cater to a more subtle auditory experience, the HMX 1989 is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, especially if you enjoy a more streamlined typing feel without any pronounced tactile bumps or auditory distractions. On the other hand, if you thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy the engaging, crisp sound of each keystroke, the KTT Purple Click would likely be more suited to your tastes. Its satisfying click and invigorating feedback provide not only a rewarding typing experience, but its slightly higher actuation force enhances the sensation of control. Ultimately, assess the typing experience you prioritize—be it the comforting thock of a linear switch or the exciting crunch of a clicky switch—when making your selection for the most fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience.
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