HMX Game1989 vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence both typing experience and overall satisfaction. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing and gaming. As the deepest and thockiest switch in the HMX Film series, it offers a tactile delight that can enhance the enjoyment of every keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) stands out for its super smooth typing experience, thanks to its Ly stems that provide seamless actuation with minimal resistance. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and fluidity, particularly in fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches cater to different preferences—one emphasizing a robust auditory experience and the other focusing on silky smoothness—both can elevate your keyboard setup. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a distinctly sharp and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches allows for a higher-pitched resonance due to its rigidity, contributing to a clearer auditory experience. This material also boasts translucency, making it particularly advantageous for systems with RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through effectively. Thus, users of both systems can expect similar acoustic qualities and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing, highlighting the effectiveness of polycarbonate in achieving a vibrant and resonant sound.
Conversely, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which presents a contrasting auditory characteristic compared to the polycarbonate top. Nylon is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile because of its softer composition, which absorbs more sound energy and leads to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This fundamental difference between the top and bottom housing materials results in a unique behavioral dynamic for both switches — while the top housing contributes to the sounds produced during key release, the bottom housing's qualities play a significant role in the sound and feel at the bottom-out point. As such, the 1989 and Tomcat (Heavy) will have nuanced differences in tactile feedback and acoustic experience when pressed, thanks to this intentional material choice.
In summary, while the top housings of the HMX 1989 and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share the same polycarbonate composition, leading to a hybrid of aesthetic and auditory clarity suited for RGB lighting, their bottoms diverge in material, with both featuring nylon to create a fuller sound profile. The distinct qualities of each housing play a pivotal role in defining the overall typing experience, illustrating how the interplay between materials can shape performance and user satisfaction. Therefore, while similarities in sound profile exist due to the shared use of polycarbonate at the top, the differences introduced by the nylon bottom housing mean that users will experience both variance and concordance in their interactions with each switch.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present differing tactile experiences, particularly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a more substantial actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 64 grams, making it medium-heavy. This difference in weight affects user experience; the lighter HMX 1989 may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or need a keyboard suitable for lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, the heavier force of the Tomcat (Heavy) may appeal to users seeking a more robust typing feel. Overall, if someone opts for the Tomcat, they can expect a firmer, weightier experience compared to the more effortless keystrokes offered by the HMX 1989.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance could influence the tactile experience when pressing down on the keys; the HMX 1989 offers a more pronounced depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 3.6 mm travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, if you enjoy a deeper keypress, the HMX 1989 would be the preferable choice, while those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel might lean towards the Bsun Tomcat.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 switch is celebrated for its deep and resonant tone, effectively delivering a “thocky” sound that many enthusiasts seek for that satisfying auditory feedback during typing or gaming. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a richer sound profile, adding to the overall experience of using the keyboard. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch features a notably smooth typing experience due in part to its Ly stems, resulting in a more subtle sound profile that leans towards a quieter operation. While some users may prefer the pronounced thock of the 1989, others might appreciate the more subdued nature of the Tomcat (Heavy), depending on their keyboard setup and environment.
Regarding feel, the HMX 1989 is often described as providing a pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke, which can enhance the typing experience, especially in gaming scenarios where response time and sensation are crucial. Its deeper actuation point contributes to a more satisfying keystroke, making it a favorite among those who favor a punchy typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is renowned for its ultra-smooth action, attributed to its design with Ly stems. This smoothness can create a seamless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or for users who prefer a lighter touch without any tactile interruptions.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The 1989 excels with its deep sound and tactile feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy an audible and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a more refined and smooth feel, catering to those who prioritize a quieter and effortless typing experience. Overall, choosing between the two will hinge on whether one values a resonant sound and tactile feedback versus a whisper-quiet operation with exceptional smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of weight, sound, and tactile experience. If you prefer a lighter typing experience where you can enjoy a deep and thocky sound profile, then the HMX 1989 with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams might be the ideal switch for you. Its design prioritizes a satisfying acoustic feedback that many gamers and typists find appealing, particularly because it allows for quicker key presses in fast-paced scenarios without being overly strenuous. On the other hand, if you find yourself favoring a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 64 grams, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is likely more suited to your needs. Its Ly stems provide a super smooth typing experience, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that enhances the overall tactile feedback while typing or gaming. Consider your primary use—whether it's gaming, casual typing, or extensive programming—and choose accordingly to match your tactile and auditory preferences.
Mentioned in this article
