HMX Game1989 vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can dramatically affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy linear switches to consider are the HMX 1989 and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The HMX 1989, heralded for its deep and thocky sound, offers a unique auditory feedback that appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a richer sound profile while typing. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out due to its resonant and clacky notes, paired with a remarkably silky smooth feel, courtesy of its impeccable factory lube job. While the HMX 1989 tends to deliver a more subdued yet satisfying thock, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a higher-pitched and lively experience that some users may find energizing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the HMX 1989 appealing to those who favor a deeper sound and the Strawberry Wine (V2) enticing those who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic quality. 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
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, which creates some intriguing similarities and distinctions in their acoustic profiles. The HMX 1989's polycarbonate top housing is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This contrasts with the Ly top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2), which, while still vibrant, aims for a generally bright sound signature, particularly noted for its resonant clacks. Thus, while both keyboards benefit from the clarity offered by a transparent material in their top housing, the specific characteristics of the Strawberry Wine's sound signature are framed more around resonance than sharpness.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the HMX 1989 and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller profile. As highlighted in their descriptions, neither keyboard has a unique edge here, as they share similar characteristics associated with nylon. This similarity implies that the bottom-out sound and feel while typing would resonate similarly across both keyboards, evoking a dulled, round sound profile that users would typically expect from nylon housings. This shared material allows for a consistent typing experience where the acoustic quality is influenced more by the softness of the nylon than by the distinct sound signatures created at the top housing.
Ultimately, the combined effects of their respective housings suggest some overarching parallels between the HMX 1989 and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). With both utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the deeper, more subdued tones during key presses will likely feel familiar to users of either product. However, the variations in the top housings establish a stark contrast in the plink or clack quality when keys are released, shaping the overall auditory experience. Therefore, while both keyboards are set to produce successful acoustic profiles due to their shared nylon bottom housings, the distinct sound qualities introduced by the polycarbonate versus Ly top housings offer unique character to each keyboard, appealing to different aesthetic and auditory preferences.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch exhibit very similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a light and effortless keystroke, which is ideal for users who favor extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. When it comes to bottom out force, the HMX 1989 has a slightly higher measurement at 53 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 52 grams, making the latter marginally easier to bottom out. Overall, both switches provide a medium-light feel, making them suitable for those who prefer lighter switches, though the HMX 1989 can offer a slightly more substantial experience due to its marginally higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) the preferred choice for gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the 4 mm distance of the HMX 1989 offers a more traditional feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, your preference for a shorter or longer travel distance will depend on whether you prioritize fast responsiveness or a more satisfying tactile depth while typing.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 is best known for its deep and thocky qualities, creating a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a more subdued, bass-rich profile. This makes it ideal for users who prefer thockier sounds reminiscent of a traditional mechanical typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a distinct auditory experience characterized by its clacky and resonant notes. When typing with the Strawberry Wine (V2), users can expect sharp, crisp sounds that are both bright and percussive, providing a different auditory atmosphere that some may find more engaging and lively. While both switches have their own unique sound profiles, your overall sound experience will also depend heavily on your keyboard's construction and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch is noted for delivering a satisfying tactile experience, but specifics on its feel are not provided. Conversely, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness during key presses. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) particularly appealing for users who prioritize fluidity and effortless key actuation in their typing experience, where each keystroke feels seamless and enjoyable. The difference in silky smoothness versus the unspecified feel of the 1989 could cater to distinct preferences developers and typists may have regarding resistance and feedback.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch excels in providing a deep, thocky sound that may appeal to those who prefer a bassy auditory experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has its charm in the clacky and resonant sounds it produces, making it suitable for users seeking a livelier typing atmosphere. Feel-wise, the Strawberry Wine's silky smoothness gives it an advantage for those prioritizing a seamless typing experience, while the specifics of the 1989's feel remain less clear. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying results, with your choice depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for sound and tactile experience. If you prefer a deeper and thocky feel that enhances your typing experience with a moderate bottom-out force of 53 grams, then the HMX 1989 may be the better choice for you, especially if you appreciate a more controlled auditory feedback that still maintains a pleasant typing feel. On the other hand, if you find joy in the crisp and percussive sound of a clacky switch accompanied by an exceptionally smooth and silky feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its 52-gram force and impeccable factory lube job, making each keystroke an engaging and enjoyable experience. Ultimately, if sound and smoothness are high on your list, the Strawberry Wine (V2) will likely serve you better, while the 1989 will appeal to those who enjoy a more resonant and fuller typing experience.
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