HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Rose

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, the HMX 1989 and the KTT Rose both present compelling options in the realm of linear switches, yet each offers distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX 1989, renowned for its remarkable depth and thocky sound, can enhance the tactile feedback for enthusiasts who relish a rich auditory experience during use. Conversely, the KTT Rose, celebrated for its elegant aesthetics, provides a typing experience that balances a unique, substantial feel with a surprisingly light touch, thanks to its progressive springs, all while delivering a soothing, bassy sound reminiscent of raindrops. While both switches cater to users who prefer a smooth and quiet keystroke, the choice ultimately boils down to whether one prioritizes a pronounced acoustic texture or a more refined, gentle feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

KTT Rose Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.01 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the KTT Rose feature top housings made from polycarbonate, which significantly influences their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Polycarbonate's stiffer structure not only enhances the clarity of sound when keys are pressed and released but also contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched acoustic experience. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them particularly well-suited for RGB lighting. This commonality in top housing material means that users can expect a similar crispness and brightness in acoustics when using either switch, resulting in an elevated tactile experience during typing.

While both switches share polycarbonate top housings, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The HMX 1989 employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows the bottom-out sound and feel to be more muted and rounded compared to the sharper response of the polycarbonate top. Similarly, the KTT Rose also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a comparable sound quality that is deep and rich. Thus, despite the switches having different components in their constructions, the sound profiles they offer when bottoming out share a quality that fosters a pleasing typing experience.

In essence, the HMX 1989 and KTT Rose are aligned in their use of polycarbonate for the tops, ensuring users experience a bright and resonant sound upon pressing down on the switches. However, the nylon bottom housings can lead to a different overall acoustic experience when bottoming out due to their sound absorption properties. As a result, while the overarching sound characteristics may converge due to the similarity in top housing materials, the nuanced differences created by the nylon bottoms ultimately shape the distinct auditory experiences users will encounter with each switch.

Weight

Comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch reveals notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch has an unspecified actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a firmer typing feel that some users may appreciate for a more substantial experience. As it stands, the HMX 1989 is the lighter option overall due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, while the KTT Rose leans towards a medium-heavy feel. This contrast highlights the different target users each switch aims to serve, with the HMX 1989 catering to those seeking comfort and longevity, while the KTT Rose appeals to those preferring a more robust typing feedback.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when pressed, each switch moves the same distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation feel when using either switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Since both switches travel the same distance, neither is shorter or longer; thus, they provide equal performance in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 switch is known for its deep, thocky sound profile that is particularly resonant and satisfying, providing a tactile auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This richness in sound makes it a desirable choice for those who enjoy a more immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch produces a low-pitched sound characterized by a bassy tone, often likened to the sound of raindrops—soft and mellow. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the 1989 leans more towards a deep thump, making it ideal for users who crave a more pronounced sound, whereas the Rose offers a gentler and more neutral auditory quality suitable for various environments, be it work or leisure.

When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 offers a unique typing experience that is notably deep and thocky, designed to deliver satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Rose features a mild feel that provides an approachable typing experience. The Rose's progressive springs allow for substantial resistance without being too heavy, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience thanks to its polished design. This results in reduced friction and an overall pleasant tactile response, making the Rose an excellent choice for typists looking for comfort over extreme feedback. While the 1989 provides a deeper tactile sensation, the Rose caters to a more universally gentle and accessible feel.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 and KTT Rose switches differ in both sound and feel, they encapsulate two distinct approaches to linear switches, appealing to various preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The 1989’s thocky sound and rich feedback will attract users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, whereas the Rose's low-pitched sound and polished feel offer a gentler touch, making it suitable for diverse typing situations. Ultimately, those who appreciate additional depth and auditory richness may gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while users seeking a smooth typing experience with a softer sound profile might prefer the KTT Rose.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a light and thocky experience that provides a satisfying sound profile, the HMX 1989 is an excellent pick, particularly for gaming and general typing where quick, responsive keystrokes are desirable. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it approachable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a typing experience with a bit more heft and depth, the KTT Rose, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, may be more suited to your style. The unique progressive springs offer a polished and mild feeling, allowing for a substantial yet controlled input that is great for both work and relaxed typing at home. The Rose switch’s low-pitched sound adds an elegant acoustic layer, enhancing your experience when typing. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and whether you lean towards a lighter, more agile feel or a more grounded and substantial typing experience, as this will guide you to the right switch for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Rose Linear

$3.01 per 10

Learn more