HMX Game1989 vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Outemu Red Panda represent two distinct approaches, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX 1989, recognized for its deep, thocky sound profile, offers a linear experience that many users appreciate for its smooth keypresses without any tactile bumps. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, particularly during long gaming sessions or intensive typing tasks. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda is celebrated for its tactile feedback, delivering a light-to-medium level of tactility that provides satisfying feedback while typing. Users often enjoy the combination of its bassy, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with the contrasting clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, making it an engaging option for those who value auditory and tactile sensations. While both switches have unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, they ultimately serve varied purposes and preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Red Panda switches exhibit remarkable similarities in their top and bottom components, leading to comparable auditory and tactile experiences when typing. Both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housings, which is well-known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which aids in resonance and clarity, making these switches particularly appealing for key enthusiasts who prioritize sound qualities. Additionally, both switches' use of polycarbonate allows for impressive RGB lighting effects, as it is translucent by nature, enhancing the visual experience alongside the auditory.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a distinct sound profile. The nylon material is characteristically softer than polycarbonate, absorbing sound and generating a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This contrasts sharply with the top housing's clarity, resulting in a unique combination where the typing experience includes both a high-pitched release and a resonant bottom-out sound. While the polycarbonate top provides a punchy sound upon release, the nylon bottom serves to create a more rounded and muted sound when the key is pressed down, thereby offering a diverse auditory palette that balances snappiness and depth regardless of the switch used.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Red Panda allows for a harmonious fusion of sound properties. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound clarity and typing experience due to the complementary nature of the selected materials—polycarbonate for the top housing ensures an acoustic richness, while nylon in the bottom housing introduces warmth and depth. This synergy between the two types of plastics results in switches that are diverse yet consistent in how they engage the user both audibly and tactilely, fulfilling the preferences of many typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, we can observe distinct differences in their weights and feel. The HMX 1989 is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming due to the reduced fatigue on the fingers. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda, with its heavier actuation force and bottom out force, offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. As a result, while both switches provide unique tactile experiences, the 1989's lower force ratings make it the clearer choice for those seeking ease of use, whereas the Red Panda caters to those who appreciate a firmer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we see a notable difference. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is often considered the traditional distance for keyboard switches, offering a more pronounced tactile feel and depth for users who appreciate a hearty key press. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a quicker response time. The shorter travel distance found in the Red Panda can facilitate faster key presses, though some users may find it too abrupt compared to the deeper feel of the HMX 1989. Consequently, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Outemu Red Panda is the better choice, while the HMX 1989 would be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial key travel.
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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we find distinct auditory characteristics. The HMX 1989 is known for its deep, thocky sound signature, reminiscent of a rich “thud” that resonates with a satisfying depth, particularly pleasing to those who appreciate a low-pitched auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Red Panda produces a more varied sound profile, characterized by a light-medium amount of tactility which results in a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound that adds a unique dimension to each keystroke. Its top-out sound is more clackier and higher-pitched, creating a distinct contrast that can be both energetic and engaging for users. The final sound experience of either switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but those looking for a thocky experience may prefer the HMX 1989, while a clackier output can be expected from the Red Panda.
As for the feel, the HMX 1989 excels in providing a deeply satisfying typing experience, although the specific details of its tactile feedback were not provided. Contrasting this, the Red Panda offers a mild tactile sensation that strikes a balance between comfort and engagement, making it approachable for a broad range of users. This gentle typing experience allows for a more forgiving touch when typing and is less intrusive compared to switches with more pronounced tactile responses. The combination of this mild tactile feedback and differentiated auditory feedback in the Red Panda may appeal to typists who prefer nuance in their key presses, while the HMX 1989 may cater more to those who lean toward a definitive, deeper feel.
In summary, while both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities, they cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard experience. The HMX 1989 is ideal for users who appreciate a deep, thocky sound and potentially a more robust typing feel, while the Red Panda offers a versatile experience with its mild tactility and a combination of bassy and clackier sounds. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on whether you prefer the rich auditory and tactile feedback of the HMX 1989 or the more subtle and varied experience presented by the Outemu Red Panda.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth, linear typing feel with a softer bottom-out force and a deeper, more thocky sound that provides a satisfying response while gaming or typing, the HMX 1989 would be an excellent choice for you. It is particularly suited for those who may prefer a quieter environment or who enjoy the deep sound profile. On the other hand, if you favor a bit of tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience with a slight clack as you type, the Outemu Red Panda, with its medium bottom-out force and mild tactility, would be better suited for your needs. This switch provides a balanced typing experience that retains some engaging characteristics without being overly loud or harsh, making it a good option for both gaming and general typing tasks. By reflecting on these distinctions, you can make a more informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences, ensuring you select the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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