HMX Game1989 vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role, as evidenced by the contrasting qualities of the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Taro. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky feel, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it an excellent choice for gamers who crave speed and responsiveness. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch provides a tactile experience characterized by a snappy, moderate level of tactility, complemented by crisp acoustics that many typists find satisfying. While the HMX 1989 is praised for its linear design, ideal for those who appreciate minimal resistance, the Taro switch's tactile nature appeals to those who enjoy feedback with each key press. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Jwick Taro, one can observe striking similarities, particularly in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing of each switch. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that enhances the sound profile by producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience. This shared characteristic signifies that both the 1989 and Taro are designed with sound clarity in mind. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing not only enhances aesthetic appeal, making the switches more visually striking, especially when RGB lighting is employed, but it also ensures that the inherent acoustic properties are maintained.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the HMX 1989 and Jwick Taro are made of nylon, which provides a contrasting acoustic profile. While the polycarbonate top promotes clarity and resonance, the nylon bottom contributes a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than the harder polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. This difference in material composition illustrates how each switch achieves a unique sound profile by combining the benefits of both housing types: polycarbonate for clarity and brightness, and nylon for warmth and depth.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the HMX 1989 and Jwick Taro serves to create a well-rounded acoustic experience. When pressed, users will feel the effects of the nylon bottom housing resonating through the switch, giving a more substantial bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate top housing will influence the sound upon release. The interplay between the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate and the fuller tones produced by the nylon allows both switches to offer a harmonious typing experience, despite their shared materials. In both cases, the thoughtful selection of housing types ensures optimal performance and user satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which may appeal to those who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Jwick Taro does not have a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This disparity suggests that while the HMX 1989 is lighter and potentially more comfortable for longer use, the Taro, with its heavier bottom out force, may offer a more substantial typing sensation, which some users might prefer. Overall, if the Jwick Taro's actuation force were known, we could draw a more direct comparison, but as it stands, the HMX 1989 clearly provides a lighter feel compared to the heavier resistance of the Taro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the differences are quite noticeable. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that provides a more substantial and deeper keypress. In contrast, the Jwick Taro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, which may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response, particularly gamers seeking faster actuation. Although both switches offer their own advantages, the Taro's shorter travel distance could be perceived as more abrupt for some users, while the 1989 switch delivers a more pronounced and hearty feel. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Taro is the superior option, whereas the HMX 1989 may be better suited for those who appreciate deeper key travel.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 known for its deep and thocky acoustics, making it a standout choice for those seeking an impactful auditory experience. This switch likely provides a resonant tone that can enhance typing satisfaction, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate a satisfying thump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch produces a neutral sound profile, characterized by crisp and acute clacks. This makes it versatile, appealing to users who may need a more subdued yet still pleasant auditory feedback, suitable for both home and office settings.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch's characteristics are not defined in the provided information, but it can be inferred that its linear nature allows for smooth keypresses without the tactile bumps found in some other switches. Conversely, the Taro provides a unique typing experience with its buttery smoothness and stepped tactile feedback. This combination offers a snappy sensation with a mild tactile bump, ideal for users who enjoy feeling a distinct actuation point without the abruptness that some tactile switches might deliver.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 and Jwick Taro switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they each provide an enjoyable typing experience suited to various users. The 1989 excels in delivering a thocky sound that many gamers might favor, while the Taro balances auditory crispness with a comforting tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prefer the deeper auditory impact of a linear switch or the mixed smoothness and tactile engagement of a tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a prominent thocky sound profile that is particularly enjoyable for gaming, the HMX 1989 might be your ideal option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams allows for rapid key presses, making it excellent for fast-paced gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. Conversely, if you appreciate a more tactile feel with a snappy response and a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, the Jwick Taro is likely the better choice for you. Its buttery smoothness combined with a stepped tactile profile can enhance your overall typing experience, making it suitable for both work and casual use. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of the Taro will allow for a pleasant typing environment whether you’re at home or in an office. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you value a soft, linear feel or a satisfying tactile bump, alongside the sound and force requirements that align with your typing style.
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