HMX Game1989 vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor each offer distinct advantages suited to different preferences. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound profile, falls under the linear switch category, making it ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback interruptions. This switch can enhance a seamless typing experience, allowing for rapid key presses and minimal noise distraction during intense gaming sessions or in shared workspaces. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor presents a tactile switch experience that blends a pronounced tactility with a pleasing thuddy and punchy sound, which adds a characterful dimension to each keystroke. Offering a satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user, the Viola Tricolor caters to those who enjoy a more engaging typing sensation. Both switches cater to unique preferences—whether you desire smooth linear action or the tactile satisfaction of pronounced feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiff properties, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound signature that allows for greater clarity and resonance while typing. This shared characteristic leads to a similar auditory experience between the two switches, particularly in terms of how effective they are for those looking for a distinctive sound when engaging with RGB lighting. Since both switches utilize the same material for their top housings, users can expect a consistent performance in terms of brightness and clarity of the sound profile, especially when using backlighting features.
In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings. The notable softness of nylon contributes to a fuller, deeper sound, as it absorbs more vibrations than harder plastics. This results in a rounder, more muted typing experience, contrasting with the sharpness of the polycarbonate tops. Since the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out feel and sound, the combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom in both the HMX 1989 and Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a balanced auditory experience. This synergy allows users to enjoy the best of both worlds—the clarity from the polycarbonate tops and the fullness from the nylon bottoms.
Overall, the combination of materials in the HMX 1989 and Haimu Viola Tricolor creates a harmonious contrast in sound profiles. While their top housings deliver a bright, crisp sound due to the polycarbonate, the nylon bottoms temper this with a deeper, rounded audio signature. The dual-material construction in both switches allows for nuanced sound experiences, with clear differentiation between the sound produced during key depressions and releases. Users opting for either switch will find a comprehensive auditory experience that highlights both materials’ strengths, providing a successful blend of clarity and depth in their typing experience.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The 1989 linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that is easier on the fingers, ideally suited for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor does not specify an actuation force, but its bottom-out force is recorded at 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. This makes the Viola Tricolor feel more substantial when pressed, which could be advantageous for typists who prefer a heavier key feel. Overall, the HMX 1989 is the lighter option, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor is the heavier choice, catering to different preferences in terms of typing experience. Consequently, users looking for ease during extended use might gravitate towards the 1989, while those desiring a firmer response may find the Viola Tricolor more appealing.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the HMX 1989 measuring 4 mm and the Viola Tricolor at 3.8 mm. This makes the Viola Tricolor the shorter option, while the HMX 1989 offers a longer travel distance. In terms of user preference, those who favor a more responsive feel and quicker actuation may lean towards the Viola Tricolor, given its shorter travel distance which caters to gamers seeking fast response times. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses would likely prefer the HMX 1989 for its extra 0.2 mm, which can provide a more defined bottom-out experience. Thus, the choice between these two switches largely hinges on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 is best known for its deep, thocky auditory profile, characteristic of switches that produce a rich and resonant sound with each key press. This switch excels in creating an immersive experience that adds a satisfying layer to typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound, described as bassy and low-pitched, with a depth reminiscent of low-frequency tones. This results in a typing experience that is both robust and engaging, giving users auditory feedback that is pleasing without being overly sharp or jangly. Both switches will deliver a satisfying sound experience, but the 1989 leans more towards a pronounced thock, while the Viola offers a more rounded thud.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is known for providing a smooth and clean linear experience that glides seamlessly without tactile interruption. This makes it ideal for those who prefer an uninterrupted keypress, allowing for quick and fluid movements, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch features a medium tactile sensation that is invigorating and accented, offering just the right amount of feedback to make each press feel pronounced without being overly tactile or tedious. Its elevated feedback invites an engaging typing experience, fostering a connection between the user and the switch. The two switches cater to different preferences; the 1989 is perfect for those who like a linear feel, while the Viola Tricolor appeals to fans of a balanced tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, each can be appreciated for what they bring to typing and gaming. The 1989 is suited for users seeking a deep, thocky sound and a smooth action, perfect for rapid key presses. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor’s bassy, thuddy sound paired with its invigorating tactile feedback appeals to those who enjoy a more engaging interaction. Both switches fulfill different niche preferences, making the choice largely dependent on individual user taste, and both can deliver enjoyable results in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch largely depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and usage scenarios. If you favor a typing experience that is smooth and quiet, the HMX 1989 is an excellent option due to its medium-light force of 53 grams, which allows for effortless key presses. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a linear action, possibly for gaming or long typing sessions, where you want to minimize fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience with a more pronounced feel, the Viola Tricolor, with its medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams, would be more suitable. The tactile bump offers satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming, making it great for typists who appreciate a more engaged connection with their keyboard. Furthermore, the Viola Tricolor’s bassy sound profile adds character to each keystroke, enriching the overall typing soundscape. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your individual typing style and the sound experience you desire, with the HMX 1989 leaning more toward a smooth and quiet operation, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor provides a more tactile, punchy, and immersive typing sensation.
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