HMX Game1989 vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Huano Sakura both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate tactile feedback and sensory immersion while typing. Its robust construction provides a satisfying experience that many users find enjoyable during long gaming or working sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura stands out with its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, perfect for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience without the fatigue that can accompany prolonged use. This makes the Sakura switch particularly appealing to writers and professionals who spend extensive hours at the keyboard. While both switches belong to the linear category and promise effortless key presses, the choice between the two often hinges on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and intended usage. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Huano Sakura both utilize distinctive materials for their switch housings, creating different auditory experiences and tactile sensations. The 1989's top housing is made of polycarbonate, known for its rigidity and optical transparency, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly advantageous for RGB setups as its translucency allows light to pass through easily, enhancing visual aesthetics. In comparison, the Huano Sakura's top housing is constructed from POK (polyketone), which, while providing a smooth feel due to its low coefficient of friction, contributes to a sound profile that is described as clackier and more durable. Although both materials have different acoustic qualities—polycarbonate promoting clarity and POK enhancing smoothness—they could potentially yield similar results in terms of overall clarity when RGB lighting is considered.
When examining the bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and Huano Sakura switch utilize nylon, a material consistently recognized for its classic performance in switch design. Nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a shared material, the nylon in both the 1989 and Sakura will evoke a similar typing feel, emphasizing that the impact of sound when bottoming out will be richly pronounced. Due to the similar properties of nylon, users familiar with either switch will likely experience a comparable auditory feedback, reinforcing the notion that the bottom housing significantly influences the tactile and acoustic response of a switch.
In essence, while the top housing materials differ between the HMX 1989 and Huano Sakura—leading to distinct sound characteristics—the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a consistent foundational sound experience. The differing properties of the top housing materials suggest that while they may present unique auditory profiles when keys are released, the overall performance will be balanced by the uniform sound properties derived from the nylon base. Thus, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the 1989 versus POK and nylon in the Sakura illustrates how varied materials can achieve both individual and complementary characteristics in keyboard switches, resulting in a rich and engaging typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Huano Sakura boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch while typing or gaming. This distinction means that while both switches will activate with a keystroke, the Sakura requires less force overall, potentially resulting in a more comfortable typing experience over long sessions for those who lean towards lighter switches. Conversely, the heavier HMX 1989 will deliver a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer response. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the 1989 offers a greater depth when pressed, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Sakura’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. The difference in travel distances suggests that while the HMX 1989 caters to users preferring a more traditional and hearty feel, the Huano Sakura aligns with those desiring a more responsive and swift typing experience. Thus, choosing between the two will largely depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky acoustics, delivering a satisfying auditory experience that many gamers and typists crave. This pronounced sound profile provides a rich, resonant feedback that enhances the tactile engagement with each keystroke. Conversely, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by a medium acoustic profile, which results in a softer and more subdued sound. Its feather-light touch allows for whisper-quiet operation, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches offer a distinct auditory experience, but your choice will depend largely on whether you prefer that thocky resonance or a more muted sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch excels with a smoothness that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its design emphasizes a fluid keystroke, with a substantial depth that many find reassuring and substantial during typing or gaming. The tactile feedback can be quite satisfying, promoting confidence in each press. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch presents a notably feather-light feel—ideal for those who may prefer less resistance when engaging the keys. This lightweight characteristic can lead to quicker action and less fatigue during long typing sessions, making it an attractive option for users who prioritize speed and comfort.
Overall, both the HMX 1989 and Huano Sakura linear switches cater to different user preferences through their sound and feel. The 1989 delivers a robust audio experience combined with a deeper tactile sensation, while the Sakura offers a more muted acoustics paired with an ultra-light touch. Choosing between these switches ultimately hinges on individual typing styles and sound preferences, but they're both designed to provide a satisfying experience for different types of users, whether one values thocky depth or a softer touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're looking for a switch with a medium-light actuation force and a rich, thocky sound profile that provides a satisfying bottom-out feel, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice, especially for those who enjoy gaming or seeking tactile feedback during their typing experience. Its unique characteristics make it ideal for those who appreciate a deeper sound and a more pronounced actuation. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Huano Sakura switch is superb with its feather-light actuation force and medium acoustics, ensuring comfort and ease for long hours of use. The Sakura’s smooth operation is tailored for users who prefer a soft and responsive typing experience without the fatigue that can come from heavier switches. Therefore, consider what aspects of a switch are most essential to you—whether you lean towards a thocky sound and tactile feel or a lighter touch for prolonged use—and make your choice accordingly.
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