Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and HMX KD200 provide distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Aliaz, renowned for its silent operation, is an excellent choice for those working in quiet environments like offices. Its medium-heavy weight offers a satisfying tactile feedback without the distraction of noise, making it ideal for users who appreciate a balanced feel with each keystroke. Described as 'silky,' 'muted,' and 'polished,' the Aliaz is perfect for individuals seeking a more refined and discreet typing experience. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the loudest member of the HMX Film switch family, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response when typing. With a linear actuation, it provides a smooth keystroke experience that many gamers and heavy typists find invigorating. While the Aliaz is tailored for quiet efficiency, the KD200 invites a more expressive and engaging typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX KD200 switches, a notable contrast exists in the types of plastics used for their housings. The Aliaz switch features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, characterized by its stiffness and translucence, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality of polycarbonate not only enhances the auditory experience but also makes the Aliaz suitable for use with RGB lighting, as its clear housing allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the HMX KD200 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which serves to absorb sound rather than amplify it. The differences in material properties create a distinct auditory sensation when typing, with the Aliaz offering a brighter sound and the KD200 providing a warmer tone.
This disparity in housing materials significantly affects how each switch feels and sounds during usage. With the Aliaz, the polycarbonate construction amplifies the high frequencies when releasing a key, resulting in a more pronounced sound that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a crisp sensation. On the other hand, the KD200's nylon housing softens the sound, leading to a more muted auditory feedback that some users may prefer for its smoothness and rounded tones. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more impact noise, making the bottom-out sounds feel less jarring compared to the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate Aliaz. This includes the perception of feedback from the switch as users experience different acoustic sensations based on the materials involved.
Both switches highlight how the combination of top and bottom housing materials influences the overall feel and sound profile. In the case of the Aliaz, the consistent use of polycarbonate ensures a cohesive auditory experience, with both the bottom and top contributing to a clear sound. Conversely, the KD200’s use of nylon in its housings means that the richer, fuller sound profile combines seamlessly across both sections, creating a more uniform sound characteristic. If users are searching for a clear and resonant typing experience, the Aliaz would be the more suitable choice, whereas those who prefer a deeper, more muted response would likely favor the HMX KD200. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, the choice heavily depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel, stemming from their differing housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces reflect varying user preferences for typing experience. The Aliaz switch features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. In contrast, the KD200 linear switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a smoother keypress for extended typing or gaming sessions. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Aliaz offers a heavier experience, while the KD200 provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for those looking for comfort and ease during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, significant differences emerge. The Aliaz boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered traditional and provides a more pronounced tactile experience with a heartier depth. In contrast, the KD200 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to users who prefer quicker actuation and faster response times, particularly popular among gamers. This shorter travel may feel less abrupt to some, balancing responsiveness with comfort. Ultimately, if you're deciding between these two, you'll find that the Gateron Aliaz provides a longer travel distance, while the HMX KD200 is the shorter option, catering to differing preferences in key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is designed for quiet environments, producing a muted sound profile that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it particularly suitable for office settings or shared spaces where noise may be disruptive. Conversely, the HMX KD200 linear switch, known as the clackiest member of its family, will generate a significantly louder and more pronounced auditory feedback, offering a stark contrast to the subdued nature of the Aliaz. Given these sound qualities, users can expect far less distraction with the Aliaz, while KD200 users may enjoy a more engaging typing experience, albeit at the cost of increased noise.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz offers a silky and polished typing experience, characterized by exceptionally smooth keystrokes and reduced resistance. This refined tactile feedback enhances overall comfort, making it ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. The combination of medium-heavy actuation weight and smooth operation creates a tactile sensation that many users find enjoyable for prolonged typing sessions. The HMX KD200's feel remains unspecified in the provided information, but given its linear design, it can be inferred that the switch delivers a consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, resulting in a different typing experience focused on fluidity over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, if you're seeking a quieter and smoother experience, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch stands out with its muted sound and silky feel, making it perfect for an office setup or environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 linear switch caters to those who prefer a louder, more pronounced keystroke, providing a different auditory and physical engagement. While both switches deliver varying qualities, understanding their distinct attributes can help you choose the option that best suits your preferences and typing environment.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and HMX KD200 linear switches ultimately depends on your typing environment and personal preferences regarding feedback and sound. If you often find yourself in a quiet office setting and prioritize a more muted experience, the Aliaz switches are ideal for you. Their heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams provides a substantial and tactile feedback, which many users find satisfying. The silky and polished feel of these switches ensures that your typing experience is smooth, making them a great option for extended periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a more expressive typing experience, the HMX KD200 linear switches could be your best bet. With a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, these switches allow for rapid typing and a delightful clacky sound that can energize your work or gaming sessions. In the end, consider the ambiance of your surroundings and your personal preferences for sound and feedback to choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
