HMX Game1989 vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro present compelling options for different users. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, is ideal for typists who appreciate a satisfying acoustic feedback while enjoying the immersive experience of their keyboard. Its heavier actuation provides a robust feel that many users find appealing for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro excels in the gaming arena, engineered for rapid response times with its light actuation force and shortened travel distance, making it perfect for gamers who rely on quick keystrokes to gain a competitive edge. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro offers a creamy and polished tactile feel, catering to users looking for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Both switches have distinct advantages tailored for their targeted audiences; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share a notable similarity in their choice of top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its inherent stiffness. The optical translucency of the polycarbonate allows for excellent RGB lighting effects, ensuring that both switches shine when illuminated. As a result, users of both the 1989 and V3 Silver Pro can expect a resonant sound during keypresses, as well as an aesthetically pleasing appearance when enhanced by backlighting.
In contrast to their top housings, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a different auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This dual-material approach means that while both switches will have similarities in their top-end sound characteristics due to the polycarbonate top housing, they diverge at the bottom housing where the nylon introduces a rounder sound. Therefore, the overall experience of pressing the keys will differ slightly between the two, creating a complex interaction of sound attributes based on the combination of materials used in each housing.
When considering the full switch performance, the interaction between the polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the HMX 1989 and Akko V3 Silver Pro underscores the importance of material choice in keyboard design. The polycarbonate top enhances the clarity during key release, while the nylon bottom adds depth upon actuation. Since each housing material contributes its unique qualities, users can anticipate an overall balanced acoustic experience that merges the advantages of both plastics. Ultimately, while these switches utilize similar materials leading to comparable sound profiles, their specific interactions result in unique tactile experiences during use, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of each design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we notice some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in feel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro features a lighter actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the V3 Silver Pro will likely provide a less strenuous typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer lighter switches, particularly during extended use like typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX 1989 may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the HMX 1989 is heavier overall, making it suitable for users seeking more resistance, while the lighter Akko V3 Silver Pro is perfect for those who favor ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX 1989 switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the more traditional options favored by typists who enjoy a deeper key press. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times. As a result, those who prioritize responsiveness may prefer the V3 Silver Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes would likely opt for the HMX 1989. In this case, the HMX 1989 is the longer switch, and the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the shorter one.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 produces a deep and thocky tone, which is often favored by those who appreciate a bassy auditory experience. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, on the other hand, offers a high-pitched and sharp sound profile that contrasts with the bass-heavy qualities of the 1989. While the V3 Silver Pro's sound is more reminiscent of a crisp keypress, the HMX 1989's thockiness will appeal to those who enjoy a richer sound. It's important to note that the final auditory experience can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but generally speaking, these switches cater to distinctly different sound preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 is celebrated for its smoothness and responsiveness, though it is less defined here. The Akko V3 Silver Pro is designed to offer an exceptionally light actuation force, making it easy to press and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Its creamy texture provides a buttery typing experience, while descriptors such as "feathery," "polished," and "silky" highlight a typing experience that feels smooth and effortless. Users can expect reduced resistance, leading to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with the V3 Silver Pro, differentiating it significantly from the less clearly defined qualities of the HMX 1989.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by a deep and thocky sound, the Akko V3 Silver Pro presents a sharper, high-pitched auditory profile. In terms of feel, the V3 Silver Pro offers a notably lightweight and smooth experience, minimizing effort required for each keystroke. Although the specifics of the 1989's feel aren't detailed, it still offers a good typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on whether you prefer a bassy sound with a smooth yet undefined feel, or a crisp auditory experience combined with a responsive and creamy typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you're drawn to a more tactile experience and enjoy typing or gaming with a switch that offers a satisfying "thock" sound and feel, the HMX 1989, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, would be an excellent choice. Its deeper profile may enhance the satisfying acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts cherish during use, making it ideal for an immersive typing experience. Conversely, if you're looking for speed and responsiveness in gaming, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is engineered for that purpose, featuring a light actuation force of only 45 grams and a shortened travel distance, allowing you to execute commands swiftly in fast-paced scenarios. The high-pitched sound profile of the V3 Silver Pro is perfect for those who prefer sharper audio feedback and a smooth, creamy typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. So, evaluate whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or quick actuation and lightness, and choose the switch that best aligns with your typing or gaming style.
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