KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX KD200 each offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Ash Gray switch stands out with its tactile feedback, designed to provide a substantial yet unobtrusive response, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a satisfying "click" without the distraction of an overwhelming sensation. This switch is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, allowing for a comfortable typing experience suitable for both long hours of work and casual gaming. On the other hand, the HMX KD200, recognized for its clackiness, brings an exciting auditory element to the keyboard experience, appealing to users who relish a more expressive sound with each keystroke. While the KD200’s linear nature promotes smooth and uninterrupted key travel, its clackiness adds an engaging layer that makes typing a lively affair. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX KD200, there are distinct differences in their respective top housings that significantly influence the sound profile of each switch. The KTT Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound. This material is particularly well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, allowing light to pass through and create vibrant visual effects. In contrast, the HMX KD200 features a nylon top housing, which lends a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound better than polycarbonate; hence, the KD200's sound characteristics are less sharp and more rounded. As a result, users can expect a notable variation in auditory feedback when typing, with the Ash Gray providing a brighter sound and the KD200 offering a more muted experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a different scenario, as both the KTT Ash Gray and HMX KD200 utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This similarity in material means that both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The design decision to incorporate nylon at the bottom results in a buffered bottom-out sound that offers a softer keystroke feel for users. This shared quality indicates that while the top housing materials create contrasting sounds, the bottom housing's similarity will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the sound and feel when a key is pressed all the way down.
In essence, the KTT Ash Gray and HMX KD200 are designed to produce different auditory profiles due to their distinct top housing materials, with polycarbonate creating a sharper sound and nylon providing a fuller one. However, since both models share nylon as the bottom housing material, they will converge in their sound characteristics when the key bottoms out. This dual-material design allows users to experience the unique attributes of both housings, resulting in a typing experience that harmoniously blends the clarity of the Ash Gray’s polycarbonate top with the richness of the KD200’s nylon bottom. While each switch has its own identity, the combination of these materials ensures that users can enjoy a fulfilling and engaging experience regardless of their choice.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the KD200 features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, with a bottom out force of 50 grams that is lighter than that of the Ash Gray. This variance indicates that the Ash Gray may provide a softer typing experience, potentially making it more suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the KD200’s heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, offering a greater sense of resistance. Overall, for those who favor a lighter touch and comfort over long periods, the Ash Gray would be the optimal choice, whereas the KD200 would better serve those who appreciate a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This equality means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of depth when engaging either switch. As a result, those who appreciate a consistent feel across their keyboard will find both switches to provide the same tactile feedback and travel length, making them equally suited for users seeking a precise typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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
When it comes to sound quality, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sonic profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound level that is neither too loud nor too soft. This balance makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of environments, whether at home, work, or any other setting where noise management is essential. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch is known for being the clackiest member of its family, likely producing a more pronounced and airy sound profile that could be more suitable for users who prefer that satisfying acoustic feedback when typing. The choice ultimately comes down to whether you gravitate towards a more subdued experience, like the Ash Gray, or if you enjoy the lively and robust sound of the KD200, which can also depend heavily on your keyboard setup.
Regarding tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray provides a unique experience that features a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response. It's easy to press, requiring minimal force to actuate. The gentle resistance paired with a mild tactile feel complements the switch's overall approachability, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions as it reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the feel of the KD200 linear switch remains an unknown, which leaves room for speculation about its capabilities in terms of feedback and responsiveness. However, if sound does play a role in how one perceives feel—where a louder switch could influence the sensation of typing—the KD200 would undoubtedly cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch presents a wholesome balance of sound and feel, making it a versatile option for a variety of users, while the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out for its strong acoustic characteristics. If you prioritize a quieter yet tactile typing experience, the Ash Gray will likely suit you well, whereas the KD200 appeals to those who revel in a clacky sound. Thus, your choice can significantly affect both the auditory and tactile enjoyment of your typing experience, and understanding each switch's qualities can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you favor a tactile experience that provides a satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced, the Ash Gray is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams makes it easy on the fingers, particularly during long typing sessions while still offering a crisp actuation that can enhance your writing or gaming experience without causing fatigue. This switch also maintains a neutral sound profile, allowing you to use it comfortably in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter touch that delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback, the HMX KD200 would suit you well. With its bottom out force of just 50 grams, it requires even less effort to activate, making it suitable for rapid gaming scenarios. The KD200’s clacky sound can add an extra layer of satisfaction to your typing experience, especially for those who appreciate an audible response. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you value tactile feedback and moderate sound or seek a smoother and noisier linear switch with effortless key presses.
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