HMX Game1989 vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the BSUN Ragdoll both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, even as linear switches. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers or typists who appreciate a tactile auditory cue with each keystroke. Its design embodies a rich acoustic experience, reminiscent of the nostalgic gaming era of 1989. On the other hand, the BSUN Ragdoll is known for its Y3 stem, which promotes exceptionally smooth key travel, along with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to a distinct clacky sound. This can appeal to users who prioritize a satisfying auditory feedback during fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their merits, catering to varied preferences in sound and feel; 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials used in the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches, notable contrasts emerge, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housing. The HMX 1989 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributable to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, making it an excellent choice for those who desire clarity and resonance in their typing experience. Additionally, the material's translucency makes it particularly suited for RGB lighting setups, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In stark contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll employs nylon for its top housing, resulting in a significantly different auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder, more muted tone.
However, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, establishing a commonality between them. As both the HMX 1989 and Bsun Ragdoll feature nylon in their bottom housing, the characteristics of this material create a consistent typing experience in each switch. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing qualities, leading to a duller bottom-out sound when pressed. This dual use of nylon in both switches fosters a blending of auditory experiences, whereby both models share that deeper, more rounded sound as users type down. While their top housings diverge in material, their bottoms establish a shared foundation for sound and feel.
Ultimately, the variances in the top housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Ragdoll lead to distinct typing experiences. The crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing in the HMX 1989 contrasts sharply with the roundness provided by the nylon top housing of the Ragdoll. Nevertheless, because both switches share nylon in the bottom housing, they maintain a coherent sound foundation. This interplay between the two different materials illustrates how the properties of each can affect user experience, with the top housing influencing the release sound and the bottom housing affecting the feel and bottom-out sound. Hence, while users may enjoy different auditory outcomes based on the distinct top materials, the similarities in their bottom housings foster an underlying sameness that contributes to a more unified typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. The bottom out forces, however, differ slightly, with the HMX 1989 requiring 53 grams to bottom out compared to the Ragdoll's 52 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down to type, the HMX 1989 offers a slightly firmer resistance when bottoming out. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-light category, but the HMX 1989 can be considered marginally heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, users who prioritize a more substantial feel may lean towards the HMX 1989, while those preferring a slightly lighter touch might favor the Bsun Ragdoll.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the HMX 1989, being the longer of the two, offers a more traditional feel often associated with depth, which can be preferable for users who appreciate a substantial travel distance when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm travel distance caters to the growing demand for shorter actuation points, which is favored by gamers seeking responsiveness and quick reactions. Ultimately, if you prioritize a hearty feel under your fingers, the HMX 1989 will be the better choice, while the Bsun Ragdoll may appeal to those who prefer the swiftness of a shorter activation.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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 noted for its deep, thocky acoustics, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback when typing. This switch’s sound profile is rich, enhancing the overall typing experience, especially on a well-built board. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers a clacky sound, largely attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing and unique Y3 stem design. While the Ragdoll may not produce the same depth as the 1989, it provides a distinct auditory characteristic that some users may find appealing. It’s important to remember that the sound characteristics of both switches can vary with the type of keyboard and keycaps used, potentially leading to different results.
When considering the feel of these switches, the 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its smooth and consistent travel, allowing for a pleasant typing experience without any tactile interruptions. Users typically appreciate the linear nature of the switch, which promotes a fluid keypress from top to bottom. Conversely, the Ragdoll linear switch is designed for similarly smooth travel owing to its Y3 stem; however, its unique structure may impart a slightly different tactile sensation, contributing to a more textured experience. Both switches aim to provide a seamless typing experience but may cater to different preferences when it comes to the specific sensations produced during operation.
Overall, both the HMX 1989 and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, appealing to different segments of keyboard enthusiasts. The 1989 excels with its deep, thocky sound and smooth transition, while the Ragdoll stands out with its clackiness and effective design. Ultimately, whether one prefers the richness of the 1989 or the quirky character of the Ragdoll will depend on personal taste; however, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying linear feel and sound, ensuring that either choice can provide a compelling typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you're looking for a switch that offers a deep and thocky feel, ideal for creating a satisfying auditory experience during your typing or gaming sessions, the HMX 1989 is your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it suitable for extended use without fatiguing your fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother travel experience with a clacky sound, the Bsun Ragdoll's Y3 stem combined with its nylon-fiberglass housing delivers just that, making it perfect for a fast-paced gaming environment or rapid typing tasks. The Ragdoll’s slightly lighter bottom-out force of 52 grams also makes it a comfortable option for those who appreciate a lighter touch. Ultimately, consider your personal typing style and the kind of feedback and sound you enjoy; these factors will guide you toward the switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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