HMX 1989 vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves contemplating the distinct traits of various options, such as the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, delivering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, ideal for gamers seeking speed and fluidity without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) balances a medium tactile feedback with a reduced noise level, providing a satisfying resistance upon pressing, perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience without disturbing colleagues in an office or shared environment. While the 1989 excels in delivering rapid keystrokes for competitive gameplay, the Silent Bluish White caters to a quieter, more contemplative typing atmosphere. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX 1989 Linear

TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.60

$4.63 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the HMX 1989 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which significantly informs their acoustic characteristics. The choice of polycarbonate gives both switches a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material's translucent quality not only enhances the aesthetics of the switches, particularly for RGB lighting, but also contributes to a clear and resonant sound. As a result, users can expect similar acoustic performances from both switches when depressions are made, as the polycarbonate top housing ensures that the resonance is sharp and pronounced irrespective of the specific switch model.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches employ nylon, a material recognized for its distinct sound properties. The nylon bottom housing lends a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This results in a sound that is rounder and more muted, which contrasts with the sharper sound delivered by the polycarbonate top. The combination of these materials in both the HMX 1989 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) effectively creates a balanced auditory experience, where the high-pitched clarity from the top is softened by the deeper tones from the bottom housing.

Although the materials in the top and bottom housings of both switches are the same, the resulting sound profile is differentiated by their respective design elements. When pressing a key on either switch, users will experience the impact of the nylon bottom housing more prominently, providing a unique tactile feedback and sound quality. Conversely, as a key is released, the properties of the polycarbonate top housing will dominate the sound profile. Hence, while both switches are composed of identical materials, the manner in which these materials interact during use ensures that users can achieve a well-rounded typing experience, characterized by both sharp clarity and deep warmth.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. This difference in actuation force means that the Silent Bluish White (V2) requires less effort to register a keystroke, which may be preferable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. The heavier HMX 1989, however, provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push while typing. Ultimately, if a user is looking for lighter resistance, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) would be the better choice, while those favoring a heavier touch may lean toward the HMX 1989.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is evident that the HMX switch offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction could influence user preference significantly; the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White (V2) is likely to appeal to gamers or those seeking quick response times, while the HMX 1989, with its more traditional travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who favor a deeper, heftier key press experience. Thus, if you lean towards responsiveness and a more concise activation, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) would be the preferable choice, whereas the HMX 1989 would cater to those who appreciate a fuller typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by a deep and thocky output, which provides a rich acoustic profile that many enthusiasts find satisfying, especially in gaming and typing scenarios. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is designed to be muted, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the typical auditory distractions associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Bluish White (V2) an excellent choice for situations where noise is a concern, such as in office environments or shared living spaces.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is noted for its smooth actuation without the tactile bumps often found in other switch types. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) exposes a feel that is butter smooth yet offers a mild tactile response, creating a more nuanced typing experience. The tactile nature of the Silent Bluish White (V2) is further described as subtle and polished, allowing for a gentle resistance that feels approachable while still providing feedback. This makes it versatile for a variety of typing tasks, balancing comfort and tactile satisfaction.

Overall, both switches cater to distinct preferences and requirements. The HMX 1989 provides a robust and resonant sound profile along with a smooth keystroke, ideal for those who prioritize acoustics and seamless key travel. Conversely, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) excels in creating a quiet, yet tactile experience, suitable for quieter environments. Depending on your specific priorities—be it sound, feel, or the ambiance of your workspace—choosing between these switches will lead to a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch largely depends on your individual typing preferences and environment. If you favor a more tactile experience with a satisfying amount of resistance when you press the keys, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is an excellent choice, particularly if you are working in a quieter setting or need a switch that minimizes noise. Its muted sound profile and buttery feel make it suitable for office environments or shared spaces where you want to maintain a level of discretion. Conversely, if you prefer a more linear typing experience that offers a bit more weight, the HMX 1989 may be more to your liking. Its medium-light actuation force and thocky sound signature provide a distinctive feedback that is great for gaming and personal use, where sound is less of a concern. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactility and a quieter operation, or whether you lean towards a smoother, more responsive typing experience with a deeper acoustic profile.

Mentioned in this article

HMX 1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) Tactile

$6.60

$4.63 per 10

Learn more