HMX 1989 vs. KTT Wine Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and KTT Wine Red both epitomize the linear switch experience, yet they each offer distinct characteristics that might appeal to different users. The HMX 1989, celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, is the standout choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a robust tactile response and sound profile reminiscent of classic gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches charm users with their pillowy light touch and rich, low-pitched acoustics that create a soothing typing atmosphere, ideal for long hours of writing or coding. While both switches cater to those who prefer a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, their unique auditory and tactile feedback can significantly influence your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX 1989 Linear

KTT Wine Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.71 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the KTT Wine Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The intrinsic properties of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, lend themselves to achieving a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is a significant advantage for users keen on RGB lighting, as it allows for efficient light transmission and vibrant illumination. Given that both switches share this material in their top housing, it can be expected that they will yield similar results in terms of sound articulation and visual aesthetics when integrated with RGB features.

In stark contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between these two switches. The HMX 1989 features a nylon bottom housing, a material known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon's ability to absorb sound leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience, creating a more subdued bottom-out sound that contrasts sharply with the crispness contributed by the polycarbonate top. Conversely, the KTT Wine Red employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which carries over the same sound characteristics found in its top housing. This means that while the KTT switch maintains a consistent sharper sound profile throughout both housings, the 1989 offers a unique tonal depth in the bottom-out sound thanks to the nylon material.

Ultimately, the combination of materials used in these switches creates distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While both switches share the polycarbonate top housing, highlighting similar auditory and aesthetic results, the bottom housings introduce variability that significantly affects their overall performance. Users seeking a sharper, more resonant sound may gravitate toward the KTT Wine Red due to its use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings. In contrast, the HMX 1989 would appeal to those desiring a fuller sound experience at bottom-out, facilitated by the nylon bottom housing, thereby offering a unique contrast to the crisper highs provided by the polycarbonate top.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we find notable similarities and slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the KTT Wine Red is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 44 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light category, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without causing significant fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the 1989 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is lighter than the Wine Red's 55 grams. Consequently, while they are similar in experience, the KTT Wine Red switch is slightly heavier overall, offering a more substantial feel at the bottom of a keystroke. This means that users seeking a firmer push might prefer the Wine Red, whereas those who favor lighter switches for extended use might lean towards the HMX 1989.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similar specification allows for a comparable typing experience in terms of key travel, resulting in a consistent feel when using either switch. Users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress responsiveness from both switches due to this equality in travel distance, leading to a uniform performance in typing or gaming scenarios.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out with its distinctly deep and thocky nature, making it one of the most resonant options in the HMX Film switch series. This rich acoustic profile can appeal to users who crave a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, producing a deep and rich quality with each keystroke. The Wine Red’s sound can be characterized as having a mellow tone, which may also be desirable for users seeking a more subdued acoustic experience. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound output can also be influenced by the keyboard's build and the keycaps you choose.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 is celebrated for its thocky tactile feedback that provides a satisfying resistance, although specific details on its tactile sensation are limited. Meanwhile, the KTT Wine Red switch is described as delivering a pillowy and light typing experience, combining comfort with a gentle touch. This soft feel allows for prolonged typing sessions without discomfort, making it an excellent choice for everyday use. While the exact feel of the 1989 switch may not be fully discussed, both switches are tailored toward providing a smooth linear typing experience, albeit with differing tactile nuances.

In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch is lauded for its deep, thocky sound profile and satisfying feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a bassy auditory experience paired with a light, pillowy touch. Each switch caters to different preferences, so potential users will choose based on whether they prioritize sound depth or a softer typing feel. Ultimately, both can provide an enjoyable experience, but the subtleties between them will determine the best fit for individual typing styles.

Conclusion

To summarize, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prioritize a deeper and thockier sound with a captivating auditory presence, the HMX 1989 would be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a medium-light bottom-out force that's comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother, pillowy feel complemented by a rich, bassy sound during keystrokes, the Wine Red is the way to go, as it offers a satisfying typing experience alongside a slightly heavier bottom-out force that still remains enjoyable. Both switches cater to fans of linear switches with a similar medium-light force, but your ultimate choice should boil down to whether you prefer the thockiness of the 1989 or the pillowy softness and depth of the Wine Red. Ultimately, understanding these nuances will help you align your keyboard choice with your personal preferences, enhancing your overall typing satisfaction.

Mentioned in this article

HMX 1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Wine Red Linear

$2.71 per 10

Learn more