HMX 1989 vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence the typing experience and overall satisfaction. The HMX 1989, a revered switch within the HMX Film series, is often praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a rich acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts cherish. It offers a tactile satisfaction that caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie stands out as an all-POM switch that redefines affordability without sacrificing quality; its buttery smooth operation and subdued thocky sound make it an enticing option for those looking for a whisper-quiet yet responsive typing experience. While both switches are linear and designed to enhance the user's experience through sound and feel, they embody different philosophies—one leaning towards a deeper acoustic resonance and the other emphasizing smoothness and affordability. 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
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Gateron Smoothie each employ distinct materials for their top housings, with the 1989 featuring polycarbonate and the Smoothie utilizing POM. The polycarbonate construction of the 1989 is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to its stiffness, which allows for greater resonance. In contrast, the smoother sound characteristics of the Gateron Smoothie's POM top housing lead to a deeper, more muted sound, creating a different auditory experience altogether. While both switches are designed to provide satisfying feedback, the contrasting housing materials will make them produce notably different soundscapes during usage.
When examining the bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and Gateron Smoothie feature plastic materials that enhance their individual sound profiles. The 1989 uses nylon, renowned for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer texture. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, although it is characterized as being relatively more muted. Despite the differences in material, both switches seem to share a similar direction when it comes to achieving a richer auditory experience, albeit through different methods and feel during operation.
In terms of switch performance, the interaction between the top and bottom housings illustrates how each material influences the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the 1989 relies more heavily on the clarity brought by polycarbonate in its top housing to deliver sharp sounds on key release, the Smoothie's POM top housing’s deeper tones complement the broader sound produced by the POM bottom. The nylon base of the 1989 provides a fuller experience, while the POM base on the Smoothie captivates users seeking a muted and unique quality. Ultimately, while both switches utilize different materials in their housings, they demonstrate how various combinations can still yield pleasurable and distinct auditory experiences, catering to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The 1989 switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie is lighter at 40 grams. This difference suggests that the Smoothie may be more suitable for users looking for a less strenuous typing experience, particularly for long typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Smoothie is unknown, while the 1989 switch features a bottom out force of 53 grams, which indicates a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down. This might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feedback. Therefore, while both switches provide a different typing experience due to their actuation forces, the HMX 1989's known bottom out force offers a more defined endpoint compared to the Mystery surrounding the Smoothie's bottom out specification.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that they differ significantly. The HMX 1989 boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, aligning with the traditional preference for key depth, offering users a more pronounced tactile experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor quicker response times, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking enhanced performance. Consequently, the 1989 switch offers a more robust feel, while the Smoothie promotes swifter actuation. For enthusiasts who enjoy a deeper typing experience, the HMX 1989 would be the ideal choice, while those who prioritize speed and agility might gravitate towards the Gateron Smoothie. Overall, the differences in travel distance are notable, with the HMX 1989 being the longer option and the Gateron Smoothie providing a shorter, more responsive experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch is characterized by its deep and thocky auditory signature. This switch leaves an impression of weight and presence, likely resonating well with users who prefer a robust sound profile while typing or gaming. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie also boasts a thocky sound signature, described as producing a low-pitched, rich, and mellow tone. It further exemplifies a subdued character, resulting in a less intrusive keystroke noise compared to harsher switches. Both switches thus offer satisfying acoustic feedback, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when they engage their keys, although the HMX 1989 is specifically noted as the deepest of the two.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989's precise characteristics are not detailed, leaving it open to interpretation. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie provides a plush typing experience marked by descriptors such as buttery, creamy, and silky. This indicates that users will enjoy a seamlessly smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, which could translate into reduced typing fatigue over extended periods. While the HMX 1989's feel remains unspecified, it would need to be equally comfortable to achieve similar satisfaction among typists and gamers.
Bringing together these aspects, both the HMX 1989 and Gateron Smoothie deliver their own unique auditory and tactile experiences. While the HMX 1989 stands out for its particularly thocky and deep sound, the Smoothie excels in its luxurious feel, making it a strong option for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, if you are considering either switch for your mechanical keyboard, rest assured you will enjoy a thocky experience, though the specific nuances of each will differ, influencing your overall typing or gaming satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-light force—around 53 grams—that provides a satisfying balance between response and control, the 1989 is a strong candidate. It is renowned for its thocky sound signature, appealing to those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback during typing or gaming. However, if you favor an extremely smooth, almost effortless typing experience, complemented by a thocky yet subdued sound, the Gateron Smoothie may be the right switch for you. This switch’s buttery, creamy, and silky feel makes it an excellent choice for long typing sessions, especially if you're seeking a tactile yet low-resistance key press. Ultimately, consider your typical use cases: the 1989 might be better suited for fast-paced gaming, while the Smoothie could provide comfort and enjoyment for everyday typing tasks. Your individual preferences for tactile feedback, sound, and overall feel will guide you to the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard adventure.
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