HMX Game1989 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and TTC Speed Silver stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to different user preferences. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky feel, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who appreciate a richer sound and tactile feedback while typing. Its unique profile offers an engaging experience, particularly for those who thrive on a satisfying keypress. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is designed for speed and precision, featuring a reduced travel distance that facilitates rapid actuation. Ideal for competitive gamers and fast typists alike, this switch exhibits a light-medium resistance and a polished sound profile, ensuring an efficient and quiet typing experience. While the HMX 1989 excels in depth and auditory satisfaction, the Speed Silver shines in responsiveness and effortless actuation. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and TTC Speed Silver switches share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice makes a significant difference in the sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience typically preferred by users seeking precision in auditory feedback. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency not only enhances aesthetics but also makes both switches particularly conducive to RGB lighting setups, allowing vibrant colors to glow through. As a result, those looking for a bright and resonant sound signature will enjoy similar auditory characteristics from both switches, emphasizing the benefits of polycarbonate in creating a clear upper tonal range.
While both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housings, the bottom housings differentiate themselves with nylon in both cases. Nylon's properties create a distinct sound profile that contrasts with polycarbonate's sharpness. Users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing on either the 1989 or Speed Silver due to the nylon's ability to absorb sound. This softer plastic dampens the sound more effectively than harder materials, contributing to a more rounded auditory experience. Therefore, while the top housing influences the release sound upon key release, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall feel and bottom-out sound. In this way, users of both switches can anticipate a rich auditory tapestry that blends the crispness of the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon.
In summary, when comparing the HMX 1989 and TTC Speed Silver, one can appreciate their engineering choices that balance clarity and depth in multimedia expressions. With both switches using polycarbonate top housings, users will experience similar high-pitched auditory feedback ideal for gaming and precision tasks. Conversely, the nylon bottom housings ensure that the depths of the acoustic profile are fulfilled, providing a harmonized typing experience. Thus, while the materials do vary, they are selected purposefully to complement one another and can yield similarly gratifying results in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the HMX 1989 requiring 53 grams to reach the bottom and the TTC Speed Silver requiring a slightly heavier 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar light touch for actuation, the TTC Speed Silver has a marginally heavier feel when bottoming out. As a result, users who prefer a lighter overall typing experience may find the HMX 1989 more appealing, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feedback during bottoming out may lean toward the TTC Speed Silver. In summary, while the actuation forces are the same, the difference in bottom out forces suggests that the Speed Silver provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience. The 1989's 4 mm travel provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users may prefer for its reassuring feedback and the sensation of pressing down firmly. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those looking for quicker keystrokes, offering faster response times due to the shallower actuation. Ultimately, if you are seeking a more responsive feel and prefer less key travel, the TTC Speed Silver would be the better choice. Conversely, if you favor a more substantial and deeper typing experience, the HMX 1989 is the optimal option. In summary, the HMX 1989 has a longer travel distance, while the TTC Speed Silver has a shorter one, making the former ideal for depth-oriented users and the latter preferable for those prioritizing speed.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The sound quality of the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by a deep and thocky thump, often appreciated by enthusiasts seeking a more substantial auditory feedback during use. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile that produces a moderate sound level, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting. This sound neutrality allows it to blend in without overwhelming noise, which may appeal to those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. While the specific attributes of the 1989 switch's sound are particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory impact, the Speed Silver’s versatile sound makes it a safe choice for users who desire a balanced acoustic environment.
Regarding the feel, the HMX 1989 switch is famed for its pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a robust typing experience that is satisfying for those who appreciate a heavier switch. In contrast, the Speed Silver provides a mild and polished sensation, creating a more gentle typing experience with reduced resistance. This refined feel is ideal for users looking for a smooth and effortless actuation, making it approachable for both newcomers and seasoned typists. The polished nature of the Speed Silver enhances its smoothness, reducing friction for a sleek key travel, which caters to users who prioritize speed and precision.
In summary, the HMX 1989 linear switch delivers a deep and satisfying sound along with a robust tactile sensation, making it a favorite for gamers and heavy typists who appreciate firm feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver provides a neutral sound and a smooth, mild feel, appealing to those who value speed and a refined typing experience. Ultimately, while each switch serves different preferences, users can expect a compelling experience from both, tailored to their specific needs in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you desire a switch that offers a unique, thocky sound profile along with a somewhat deeper actuation, the HMX 1989 could be the better option for you. This switch's medium-light force of 53 grams makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more tactile experience while still being comfortable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if speed and precision are your main priorities, the TTC Speed Silver is likely your best bet. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams and reduced travel distance, it allows for quick and easy actuation, which is particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming or rapid typing scenarios. The neutral sound profile and mild feel of the Speed Silver also make it a versatile option that is suitable for both home and office environments. In short, choose the HMX 1989 for its distinctive sound and thocky feedback, or go for the TTC Speed Silver for a polished and swift typing experience.
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