HMX Game1989 vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can have a significant impact on your typing and gaming experience. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, emerges as an excellent choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback and enjoy a pronounced auditory response. This switch is categorized by its distinctive characteristics, making it ideal for users seeking an immersive experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out as one of the most innovative releases in recent years. Its semi-silent design allows for a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still delivering a clacky bottom-out, making it suitable for shared workspaces or quiet environments. In addition, its silky smooth typing feel strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance without being overly polished. While both switches offer unique advantages, your choice will depend on personal preference and intended use. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature a polycarbonate top housing, which inherently gives them similar acoustic characteristics. The polycarbonate material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This rigidity allows for a clearer resonance when a key is pressed, making these switches responsive and more enjoyable for typing or gaming. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances aesthetics, especially when paired with RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through vividly. As a result, both switches, despite their different branding, promise a comparable auditory experience when it comes to the key press dynamics.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these switches introduces a deeper layer of diversity. Both the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear use nylon for their bottom housings. The softness of nylon influences the overall sound profile by absorbing some of the impact noise during a key press, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound when typing. This dampening effect of nylon tends to create a more muted bottom-out sound, which can be particularly appealing to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Hence, while both switches share the benefit of polycarbonate on the top side, the nylon's inherent properties on the bottom side contribute to a more rounded and rich auditory feel with each key press.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches—polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom—ensures a broader and more nuanced sound profile. When you press a key, the polycarbonate top captures the sharper sounds, while the nylon bottom provides a softer and deeper auditory finish. As a result, users can expect a sound profile that balances clarity with warmth. This shared approach means that users can anticipate a familiar typing experience across both the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the aesthetics of RGB lighting along with a harmonious sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, their actuation forces differ significantly, with the 1989 requiring a force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown. However, the bottom out forces show a clearer distinction, as the 1989 switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is notably lighter than the 62 grams required by the Semi-Silent Linear. This means that typists who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions will likely favor the HMX 1989, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may be drawn to the heavier Jwick option. Overall, the HMX 1989 provides a medium-light typing experience, whereas the Jwick's medium bottom out force offers a heavier push feel, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch measures at 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This highlights a distinct difference between the two switches, with the HMX 1989 being the longer option. The additional 0.3 mm in travel distance of the HMX 1989 allows for a more pronounced keystroke, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, with its shorter 3.7 mm travel distance, is likely to offer a more responsive experience, catering to those who prefer quicker actuation for faster response times—particularly beneficial in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference, with the HMX 1989 providing a deeper experience and the Semi-Silent Linear appealing to those who favor a snappier touch.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 known for its deep and thocky acoustic profile, characteristic of the HMX Film switch series. This depth provides a richly resonant sound that many enthusiasts find satisfying, particularly for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear aims for a more subdued sound signature, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out noise paired with a clacky bottom-out sound. This duality allows it to shine in settings where noise levels are a consideration while still delivering a satisfying auditory experience for the user. Both switches will produce distinct sound profiles, influenced further by the specific keyboard build and keycap choice, so personal preference plays a significant role in selection.
On the feel front, the HMX 1989 linear switch delivers a uniquely satisfying typing experience, although details on its tactile feedback and overall feel are less defined. Meanwhile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is crafted with a focus on providing a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing sensation. This blend of qualities results in a smooth, responsive keystroke that is enjoyable for both typing and gaming, making it versatile for different applications. Given the 1989's description points towards a seamless typing experience, it is likely that both switches cater to users' desires for smooth key travel, albeit in different ways.
In summary, both the HMX 1989 and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to various preferences. The 1989 focuses on delivering a rich sound and feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear emphasizes a quieter yet still satisfying performance. Regardless of which switch you choose, both are designed to provide a fulfilling typing experience, ensuring that newcomers can find satisfaction in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you're looking for a switch that offers a lighter feel with a notable "thocky" characteristic, the 1989 is the way to go. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch and a more pronounced auditory experience, which can make for an engaging gaming or typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a balance between sound and performance in a quieter setting, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is an excellent choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, this switch combines a silky smooth feel with a subdued sound profile, making it suited for both work and casual use without disturbing others. Ultimately, choosing the right switch comes down to your intended use and comfort level; the HMX 1989 is perfect for those seeking an expressive sound during lively gaming sessions, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear caters to those who want a more refined and quiet typing experience.
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