HMX 1989 vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch present two distinct yet appealing options that cater to different preferences and needs. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, making it an excellent choice for gamers who appreciate a pronounced tactile feedback with every keystroke, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Conversely, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is renowned for its smooth operation and satisfying acoustic profile, offering a well-balanced typing experience that appeals to both gamers and typists alike. Furthermore, Rice Pudding switches are compatible with Wooting's innovative keyboards, attracting enthusiasts who value performance and versatility. Each switch has its unique advantages, which can influence your decision based on your specific use case. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Everglide Rice Pudding both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in remarkably similar auditory qualities. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This shared characteristic allows both switches to produce a crisper sound, advantageous for users seeking clarity and responsiveness in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, especially in RGB lighting scenarios where illumination can shine through, creating vibrant visual effects. Thus, if you are looking for a switch that delivers brightness in lighting and sound performance, both the HMX 1989 and Rice Pudding are excellent contenders.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these two switches diverges in its material composition. Both the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Rice Pudding feature nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a distinct, deeper sound profile characterized by a fuller resonance. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its stiffer counterparts, which results in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience when typing. This integration of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a bottom-out sound that is satisfyingly soft while providing a tactile, rounded feel. As a result, both switches deliver a hybrid experience, combining crispness from the polycarbonate top and richness from the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, when considering the synergy between the materials in both switches, the distinctive qualities of each housing affect how users perceive sound and feel while typing. The combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom allows for a comprehensive typing experience that balances clarity and comfort. Although the materials are the same across both switches, the impact on sound character and tactile feedback results in a broad spectrum of auditory and physical sensations during use. Typists can look forward to an engaging experience, knowing that both the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Rice Pudding deliver a well-rounded performance, with the polycarbonate top emphasizing sound clarity and the nylon bottom amplifying warmth and fullness.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. In contrast, the Rice Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means the Rice Pudding is generally easier to press, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX 1989 provides a slightly heavier experience, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Therefore, while both switches offer unique characteristics based on their forces, the Everglide Rice Pudding is the lighter option overall, whereas the HMX 1989 is heavier and provides a greater bottoming out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, a notable difference arises. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Rice Pudding measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Everglide Rice Pudding the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who favor quicker response times due to its shorter actuation distance. In contrast, the HMX 1989, with its longer travel distance, is likely to provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a greater depth in their typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences, if a user seeks responsiveness, the Rice Pudding would be the advantageous choice, whereas the HMX 1989 would suit those who appreciate a more traditional keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 renowned for its deep and resonant "thock," which contributes to a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts deeply appreciate. This sound profile is characterized by its fullness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a robust acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch offers a deep sound as well, focusing on a balanced auditory experience. This blend of smooth operation and deep sound provides a pleasing acoustics profile that enhances the typing experience. While both switches promise a gratifying sound, the final result may vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so experimenting with different setups can also influence how each switch sounds in practice.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is celebrated for its smooth actuation, paired with a tactile sensation that gives a robust feedback without any scratchiness. This makes it exceptionally enjoyable for both gaming and typing, as every keystroke feels deliberate and confident. Conversely, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is designed to offer a smooth operation as well, providing a fast and precise feel that helps enhance overall performance. Although the tactile feedback may not be as pronounced as the 1989, it still delivers a satisfying touch experience, making it a suitable alternative for those who value fluid, uninterrupted keystrokes. Thus, while the switches have different focuses in terms of tactile feedback and sensation, both aim to provide an excellent experience.
In summary, both the HMX 1989 and Everglide Rice Pudding switches present compelling options for keyboard enthusiasts, each bringing unique attributes to the table. The 1989 is distinguished by its deep thock and robust tactile experience, appealing to those who crave a rich auditory and tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the Rice Pudding switches strike a balance between smoothness and deep sound, catering to users who seek precision and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both options are capable of delivering satisfying keyboard experiences depending on the setup and individual typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force with a more substantial sound profile that brings a satisfying 'thock' to your keystrokes, the HMX 1989 may be the right fit for you. It's particularly appealing for gamers and typists who enjoy a deeper auditory experience and a satisfying feel beneath their fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and value a smooth typing experience with a balanced sound, the Rice Pudding switch is likely your best option. Its compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards adds versatility for enthusiasts looking to enhance their performance further. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you intend to use your keyboard—whether you’re prioritizing the tactile feedback and sound of the HMX 1989 or the smooth, precise feel of the Rice Pudding.
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