HMX Game1989 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer intriguing, yet distinct experiences despite both being categorized as linear switches. The HMX 1989, often celebrated for its "thocky" feel, is designed to deliver a satisfying depth with each keystroke, making it a preferred choice for gamers and typists who crave a more substantial tactile response. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream distinguishes itself through its innovative use of POK material, which not only provides a uniquely smooth and creamy typing experience but also produces a high-pitched, clacky sound that adds a dynamic auditory element to each press. While both switches cater to users seeking linear feedback, the HMX 1989 excels in creating a deep and resonant feedback profile, whereas the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream impresses with its buttery texture and vibrant acoustics. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, one can observe significant differences as well as similarities in their design and acoustic properties. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This material’s translucency is notably advantageous for those who want to showcase RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal and auditory experience simultaneously. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary blend for its top housing, which is referenced as "special mixed materials." This blend similarly produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, suggesting that both types of switches may cater to enthusiasts seeking a defined auditory feedback during typing sessions. Despite their material differences, both designs aim for a similar auditory output, allowing users to achieve a comparable overall sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, the HMX 1989 is constructed from nylon, a classic choice in switch manufacturing known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon’s softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound waves and contributes to a rounder acoustic resonance. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes POK (polyketone) for its bottom housing. POK is noted for its durability and low friction, making it exceptionally smooth while providing a bright clacking sound. Additionally, POK has stronger shock resistance compared to nylon, resulting in a more reliable performance over time. While the HMX 1989 might deliver a more muted auditory experience due to the nylon’s sound-absorbing features, the KTT’s POK material enhances the switch’s responsiveness and overall durability.

Ultimately, the distinct sound profiles cultivated by the top and bottom housings of both switches create a nuanced typing experience. In the HMX 1989, the crispness from the polycarbonate top combines with the fuller resonance from the nylon bottom, generating a balanced auditory experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch combines its proprietary blend atop a highly durable POK base to produce a unique sound signature that remains both smooth and pronounced. While the material differences lead to varying properties, the integration of the two components ensures that users can experience a satisfying range of aural and tactile feedback in both switches. Thus, even with these contrasts, enthusiasts can achieve similar results in terms of auditory satisfaction and performance, enhancing their overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, significant differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option for users. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, classifying it as a light switch. This difference means that the Vanilla Ice Cream is more suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience, especially during long sessions, while the HMX 1989 provides a slightly more substantial feel without being overly heavy. Overall, the lighter actuation force of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream may appeal to typists seeking comfort, whereas the heavier feel of the HMX 1989 could be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The HMX 1989 features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, which offers a deeper feel and may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and deliberate keystroke experience. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to users who favor quicker response times, often sought after by gamers. The Vanilla Ice Cream's reduced distance allows for faster actuation, which can enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Consequently, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience with less travel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream would be the better choice, while the HMX 1989 suits those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound characteristics, the HMX 1989 linear switch is known for its deep and thocky signature, which provides a rich and bass-heavy auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This contrasts sharply with the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which features a high-pitched and clacky sound. The Vanilla Ice Cream's acoustics can be described as marbly and resonant, producing a sharp, clean, and crisp sound that creates an immersive typing experience. Therefore, while both switches provide distinct auditory signatures, the HMX 1989 centers on a profound depth, whereas the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its bright and lively sound, appealing to those who favor a more treble-focused profile.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 does not have specified descriptors in the provided information, so its smoothness and keystroke experience remain a bit of a mystery. However, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is characterized by its buttery and creamy feel, allowing for a seamless typing experience. The fluidity in keystrokes is likely enhanced by the materials used in its construction, making it feel like your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. Users who prefer a tactile feedback without any obstruction will likely appreciate the smoothness of the Vanilla Ice Cream, suggesting a comfortable typing experience that stands in contrast to the unspecified feel of the 1989.

In summary, while both the HMX 1989 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, the former offers a deep, thocky sound that resonates with a bassy quality, while the latter provides a bright, high-pitched sound complemented by a buttery, creamy feel. The choice between them will largely depend on whether you prefer a more substantial sound and feel versus a lighter, smoother typing experience. Whether you lean towards the richness of the HMX or the airy characteristics of the KTT, you can expect unique experiences that cater to different typing styles.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, you should consider the specific feel and sound characteristics each offers. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force that provides a thocky sensation reminiscent of classic gaming keyboards, along with a more subdued acoustic profile, the HMX 1989 is the ideal choice for you. Its deeper thockiness can enhance your gaming experience or typing comfort, particularly if you enjoy a solid yet smooth feedback. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter keypress with an exceptionally smooth, creamy feel, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream should be your go-to. This switch's buttery texture paired with its high-pitched, resonant sound signature creates a lively auditory experience while typing. This makes it well-suited for content creators or typists who appreciate both sound and tactile feedback without the worry of fatigue during longer sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in typing experience, whether you value the deeper thock of the HMX 1989 or the light, silky interaction of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more