HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX 1989 and the KTT Strawberry, both linear switches each offer unique characteristics tailored to different user preferences. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound profile, excels in providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many gamers and typists cherish, turning every keystroke into an immersive experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry captivates users with its smooth actuation and a comfortable feel, making it an enticing option for those who prioritize a frictionless typing experience; its polished finish enhances overall satisfaction during extended use. While both switches deliver linear action for uninterrupted keystrokes, their distinct audio and tactile experiences may sway users depending on their specific needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings, resulting in similar acoustical characteristics. The use of polycarbonate lends a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile to both switches. This is attributed to the relative stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance when the switch is engaged. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows both models to effectively showcase RGB lighting, making them visually appealing for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. In this regard, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when utilizing the top housing of either switch, characterized by a crisper and cleaner sound due to the shared material composition.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the HMX 1989 and KTT Strawberry differ significantly; the HMX 1989 employs nylon, while the KTT Strawberry opts for polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a rounder auditory experience that absorbs sound due to its softer nature. This softer plastic contrasts with the polycarbonate used in the Strawberry's bottom housing, which continues the trend of providing a sharper, more resonant sound. The variations in material for the bottom housings fundamentally alter the tactile and auditory feedback experienced when typing, with the HMX 1989 emphasizing a more muted bottom-out sound, while the KTT Strawberry retains the crispness delivered from its overall polycarbonate structure.
The discrepancies in bottom housing materials mean that while the top of each switch might yield similar results in terms of sound clarity and resonance due to their shared polycarbonate composition, the overall typing experience diverges when factoring in the bottom housings. For the HMX 1989, the nylon material produces a more dulcet sound profile, affecting the bottom-out feel significantly more than the top housing does. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistency in the sharper auditory profile established by its top counterpart. Ultimately, this interplay of materials results in each switch offering a unique combination of auditory characteristics, providing users with the opportunity to choose one based on their specific sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, a few key differences and similarities emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the KTT Strawberry has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making the Strawberry more appealing for those who prefer a lighter touch during lengthy typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the HMX 1989 bottoms out at 53 grams, which is significantly lower than the Strawberry's 62 grams. This means that, while the HMX 1989 offers a more consistent and lighter feel throughout the keystroke, the KTT Strawberry provides a heavier and more substantial bottoming out experience. Ultimately, individuals seeking a lighter switch with less resistance might gravitate towards the HMX 1989, whereas those who favor a firmer feel may opt for the KTT Strawberry.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical. As a result, users can expect a very similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. The uniform travel distance may lead to comparable feel and performance, making either switch suitable for those who prefer consistent key responses in their typing or gaming activities.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
The sound profile of the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky resonance, providing a satisfying auditory experience that is often favored by enthusiasts looking for a robust acoustic signature. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch produces a low-pitched sound known for its mellow and bass-heavy tone, creating a more subdued auditory environment. This difference means that while the 1989 may ring with a fuller thock, the Strawberry delivers a quieter and more intimate sound, which can appeal to users who prefer a less intrusive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps, meaning that the acoustic characteristics might shift depending on their specific setups.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 is renowned for its depth and tactile characteristics, but specific descriptors were not provided. However, the KTT Strawberry switches excel in their exceptionally smooth actuation, boasting a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. This creates a seamless travel that enhances the overall comfort during extended typing sessions. The contrast here is in the tactile feedback; while the 1989's deeper characteristics might provide a solid punch during keystrokes, the KTT Strawberry offers an effortless gliding sensation that can lend itself to rapid typing and gaming without the feeling of resistance or drag.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The 1989's thocky sound and the Strawberry's low-pitched resonance contribute to unique typing atmospheres, while the smooth and effortless feel of the Strawberry sets it apart from the potentially more traditional feedback of the 1989. Ultimately, whether a user prioritizes a deeper auditory experience or a buttery smooth typing sensation will guide their choice between the two, with both switches capable of providing enjoyable performance suited to their intended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you'll be using your keyboard for. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and are drawn to a deeper, thocky sound profile, especially for gaming, then the HMX 1989 switch could be more to your liking. Its medium-light bottom-out weight of 53 grams means you can type or game quickly without as much effort, making it ideal for those who value speed and efficiency. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, more tactile typing experience with a slightly firmer resistance, the KTT Strawberry, with its 62-gram bottom-out force, might be your best bet. Its frictionless, silky, and polished feel offers an incredibly comfortable typing session, making it well-suited for long hours of document editing or coding where precision and comfort are paramount. In summary, choose the HMX 1989 for a lighter, more thocky feel perfect for gaming, or the KTT Strawberry for a plush, smooth, and reliable typing experience that excels in productivity.
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