HMX Game1989 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who crave a substantial auditory feedback while typing. This switch excels in delivering a rich sound that many users find both satisfying and immersive, particularly during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue offers a different yet equally appealing experience. Known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and bouncy feel, this switch is characterized by its lengthened single-stage spring and standard spring weight, making it both enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. While the 1989 switch highlights an overwhelming thock and sensory engagement, the Tourmaline Blue merges tactile pleasure with ease of use, appealing to those who appreciate a smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The comparison of the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue presents a fascinating study in contrasts and similarities that affect the acoustics and user experience of the switches. Both the HMX 1989 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness. Its translucency makes it aesthetically pleasing and compatible with RGB lighting, enhancing visual appeal when combined with the lighting effects beneath. Users can expect a similar response in sound clarity and aesthetic qualities regardless of which switch they choose in terms of the top housing material.

However, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two models. The HMX 1989 utilizes nylon, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer plastic dampens vibrations, resulting in a rounder and more mellow sound when typing, particularly at the bottom-out stage. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which aligns it with the properties of the top housing. This uniform material means that the response will be crisper and more resonant throughout the action of pressing the key, providing a more cohesive sound texture compared to the nylon’s muted character in the HMX 1989.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing of the HMX 1989 gives it a unique auditory profile characterized by a blend of resonant highs and rounded lows. This split allows users to experience dynamic sound qualities influenced by each material. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue maintains a consistent sound profile with polycarbonate in both housings, ensuring a sharper and clearer output throughout the entire keystroke. Users may choose based on their preference for sound texture; those seeking a versatile sound may lean towards the HMX 1989, while those desiring a uniform and crisp experience might prefer the Everglide Tourmaline Blue.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, a clear distinction emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that can cater to users looking for comfort during prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue presents a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This increased resistance can enhance the tactile experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, users who favor lighter switches for long-term usage might opt for the HMX 1989, while those seeking a more pronounced keystroke feedback could choose the Everglide Tourmaline Blue.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical measurement indicates that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of keyboards equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide comparable feedback and responsiveness, making them equally suitable for typing and gaming experiences that require consistency in key actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for producing a deep and thocky tone, which enhances the auditory experience of typing, making it ideal for gamers and typists who seek that satisfying feedback. The Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch also features a deep and thocky sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. Both switches thus offer a similar auditory quality, leading to a resonance that satisfies users and caters to various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 switch provides a distinct tactile feedback that many users appreciate, although specific descriptions of its feel were not provided. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue offers a buttery smoothness with a fluid keystroke that feels effortless. Its easy-to-press nature incorporates gentle resistance, allowing for comfortable typing over long periods without causing finger fatigue. This switch also possesses a mild profile, ensuring that its characteristics remain approachable for both newcomers and experienced users alike. Thus, while the 1989’s exact feel is not delineated, the Tourmaline Blues present a well-rounded and enjoyable tactile experience.

In summary, both the HMX 1989 and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches share a deep and thocky sound profile, enriching the overall typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue stands out for its buttery smooth, easy-to-press feel. Though the specifics of the 1989's feel are less clear, the Tourmaline Blue’s characteristics suggest a comprehensive and pleasurable typing experience that could similarly appeal to users looking for responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, those choosing between these switches may find themselves enjoying elements that both enhance gameplay and general typing tasks, regardless of the slight variances in their unique profiles.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you prefer a lighter touch and a thocky sound profile that enhances your gaming experience, the HMX 1989 is likely your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or for users who may find heavier switches tiring during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more substantial feel and a deeper sound that fosters a satisfying typing rhythm, the Tourmaline Blue could be the better choice. With a heavier bottom-out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a bouncy and buttery keystroke experience that feels stable yet enjoyable. They cater well to a broad spectrum of users and are particularly effective in environments where a moderate sound profile is preferable, balancing both work and play seamlessly. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, more agile feel or a substantial, tactile typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more