HMX Game1989 vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and the HMX 1989 and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches exemplify this diversity in keyfeel and performance. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it the standout in the HMX Film switch series—perfect for gamers who crave a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers bring a unique flavor to the table, combining a shorter actuation with a long pole stem to deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience paired with a creamy sound signature. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts looking for a seamless keypress, their characteristics can drastically affect how they feel during extended typing sessions or intense gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two hinges on whether you prioritize the rich, resonant feedback of the 1989 or the swift responsiveness of the Splash Brothers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Splash Brothers utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the inherent properties of polycarbonate, specifically its stiffness, both switches boast a clear and resonant audio experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual appeal, particularly in setups that use RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect an aesthetically pleasing and acoustically vibrant performance from both switch types, making them equally versatile for a variety of keyboard configurations, especially those emphasizing visual effects.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches are made from nylon, a material known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This feature sets the bottom housing apart from the top, as nylon's softness allows it to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Whether typing on the HMX 1989 or the Jwick Splash Brothers, users will enjoy a muted and pleasant typing experience due to nylon's sound-dampening properties. As both switches employ this classic material in their bottom housing, they deliver what can be expected in terms of tactile feedback and sound character, thereby providing a consistent feel across models.
With both models sharing the same materials for their respective housings, the unique characteristics brought by the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom create a cohesive auditory experience. The crispness from the polycarbonate will cater to key release sounds, while the nylon absorbs sound during key presses, delivering a balance between clarity and warmth. This synergy offers a delightful typing experience, resonating with enthusiasts seeking both sharp auditory feedback and deeper acoustics. Ultimately, the shared materials contribute to a harmonious performance profile that enables users of both switches to enjoy similar results despite the individual characteristics inherent to each model.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has a defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is classified as light. This means the HMX 1989 provides a more substantial typing experience, necessitating a heavier push, while the Splash Brothers is lighter and may be more comfortable for extended use, especially for typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged sessions may lean towards the Jwick Splash Brothers, while those who enjoy a firmer response from their keyboard will likely opt for the HMX 1989.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in distance affects the overall feel and responsiveness of the switches; the HMX 1989 provides a more pronounced depth, making it suitable for those who prefer a substantial tactile experience when pressing keys. In contrast, the Splash Brothers, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel, caters to gamers or users seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. Ultimately, if you prioritize a hearty depth under your fingers, the HMX 1989 would be the better choice, while the Splash Brothers is advantageous for users favoring a snappier key response.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 linear switch is characterized by its deep, thocky profile, which can offer a satisfying and pronounced acoustic experience. This quality tends to provide a substantial auditory feedback that many typing enthusiasts find enjoyable and immersive, especially in a gaming or heavy typing context. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch features a neutral sound signature, making it moderately quiet and adaptable for various environments. This neutrality lends itself well to both home and office use, creating a versatile option without overwhelming noise, which can be appealing if you're looking for a switch that won't disturb those around you.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch showcases a significant depth that enhances the tactile experience, providing a robust and resonant feedback that appeals to those who enjoy a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers linear switch presents a likable blend of qualities; it offers a mild yet snappy feel that is responsive and engaging. The shorter activation and longer pole stem combine to create a bouncy sensation, which provides an enjoyable tactile feedback that feels lively and engaging for both gaming and typing tasks. Overall, the Splash Brothers deliver a versatile and polished experience, making them approachable for typists of all skill levels, while still retaining excitement in each keystroke.
Overall, while both the HMX 1989 and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches provide distinct sound and feel characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences in typing experiences. The 1989 excels with its pronounced acoustic quality and deep tactile feedback, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a more immersive feel, while the Splash Brothers compromise a more versatile function with their neutral sound and balanced feel. Depending on individual preferences, one can expect a satisfying experience from either switch, knowing that they will deliver on responsiveness and acoustic enjoyment in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you lean towards a medium-light actuation force and appreciate a deeper thocky sound that provides a unique auditory experience while typing, then the HMX 1989 is certainly worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for gaming sessions or extended periods of typing where a slightly more pronounced feedback might enhance your enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an overall smooth and snappy typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers is the switch for you. Its lighter bottom out force and creamy sound signature make it an excellent choice for both casual typing and fast-paced gaming, as it offers the responsiveness and subtlety that many users find appealing. In shared spaces or work environments, the mild and neutral sound profile of the Splash Brothers will help keep distractions to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, the type of tasks you'll be performing, and whether you value a more tactile, deeper feel versus a quicker, lighter response. Choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your keyboard experience, making it a worthwhile consideration.
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