HMX Game1989 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, both of which are linear switches offering unique tactile experiences. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Its robust design provides a satisfying feel, enhancing the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is specifically engineered for those seeking a quieter typing experience, resembling the soft patter of raindrops. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, these switches cater to users who prefer a lighter touch without sacrificing the joy of a satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on your personal preferences, whether you gravitate toward the thocky sound of the HMX 1989 or the serene whisper of the Silent Sakura. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches showcase a fascinating contrast in their housing materials, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The HMX 1989 deploys polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing. This combination produces a unique sound characterized by sharper, higher-pitched tones due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate, paired with the deeper, fuller tonal quality of the nylon. The polycarbonate top housing is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, enhancing the aesthetic experience alongside the auditory one. This design ultimately results in a switch that promotes clarity during typing and a vibrant visual display without compromising resonance.
Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g employs nylon for its top housing while opting for polycarbonate at the bottom, a reversal of materials seen in the 1989 switch. This switch arrangement leads to a more muted and rounded sound profile, as the nylon absorbs more sound, giving it a softer touch and feel. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom adds a degree of snap and crispness during the bottom-out phase. Thus, while the Silent Sakura provides a quieter keystroke experience by absorbing sound in the top housing, there’s a subtle yet tangible clarity imparted by the polycarbonate material that accentuates the bottom-out sound, creating a harmonious blend of qualities.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches offer unique tactile and auditory experiences that can cater to varying user preferences. Those who prefer a crisper and more resonant sound could lean towards the HMX 1989, while users seeking a gentler typing experience might prefer the muted tones of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. Nonetheless, both switches can deliver satisfying results in terms of performance; the overall interaction between the top and bottom housing materials leads to a distinct set of characteristics in sound and feel. In essence, while the materials differ, both designs are engineered to provide enjoyable typing experiences tailored to specific user desires.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch share identical actuation forces of 45 grams and bottom out forces of 53 grams, indicating that they provide the same typing experience in terms of keystroke sensitivity and depth. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for users who prefer lighter forces that facilitate longer typing sessions without excessive fatigue. Those seeking a substantial typing feel, however, may find these switches less appealing due to their lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, since both switches offer the same specifications, users can expect similar performance and experience, tailored to their preferences for lighter keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. Since their travel distances are identical, users can expect a similar key feel and actuation experience when utilizing either switch. This similarity in travel distance means that typing and gaming performance will be equally consistent between these two options, making them comparable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a smooth linear experience.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 switch is renowned for producing a deep and thocky auditory feedback that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts crave. This sound signature is often associated with an engaging and satisfying typing experience, lending a robust character to each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is designed to provide a whisper-quiet typing experience, producing a subtle sound likened to gentle raindrops. While the 1989's thocky sound can energize a typing session, the Silent Sakura’s soft, almost serene acoustics suit environments where noise reduction is a priority. Ultimately, the sound profile of both switches is influenced by external factors like the keyboard's build and keycap choice, yet you can expect significantly different auditory experiences from the two.
Moving on to feel, the HMX 1989 switch typically offers a satisfying tactile feedback that many users appreciate, making it an excellent option for both gaming and typing. This firm and tactile response enhances the immersive experience, allowing for confident keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered with a more balanced actuation force of 53 grams, aimed at delivering a lighter and smoother keystroke. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the HMX 1989 appeals to those seeking more tactile response, whereas the Silent Sakura caters to users who prefer a gently responsive feel without the interruption of noise.
In conclusion, if you’re weighing your options between the HMX 1989 and the Silent Sakura - 53g, the choice you make will significantly affect both your typing experience and the auditory landscape of your keyboard. The 1989's deep, thocky sound and tactile feedback cater to users looking for a more pronounced experience, while the Silent Sakura's soft sound and lighter feel appeal to those who prioritize quiet operation and smoothness. Ultimately, choosing the right switch will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, but both options offer unique characteristics that will enhance your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you're looking for a switch that delivers a thocky, satisfying sound along with a deep feel that enhances your gaming or typing experience, then the HMX 1989 is the ideal option for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it versatile for extended use, providing both comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet workspace—perhaps you work in a shared environment or simply prefer a more discreet typing experience—the Silent Sakura - 53g switch would be a better fit. With its whisper-quiet keystrokes, this switch allows you to type with confidence while maintaining peace around you. Both switches offer a similar bottom-out force, so whether you lean toward a pronounced auditory experience or a soft, almost silent touch, the decision ultimately hinges on what matters most to you in your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
