Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX KD200 represent two distinct worlds of typing experience, catering to different user preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch renowned for its lively sound profile and satisfying tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers alike who enjoy an engaging auditory experience. Its accentuated pop and clack, coupled with a smooth feel, create an enjoyable atmosphere for those who thrive on interaction between fingers and keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 stands out as a member of the HMX Film switch family, boasting a linear switch design that prioritizes smooth keystrokes without the auditory clatter of its tactile counterpart. This makes the KD200 a perfect fit for users seeking a new level of quiet, uninterrupted typing, ideal for professional and creative work environments. Both switches have their unique attributes that appeal to varying preferences, but understanding their nuances is crucial. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX KD200, notable differences characterize their performance and acoustic profiles, primarily due to the varied materials chosen for the top housing. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clarity, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound signature when typing. This property makes polycarbonate an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications, as its translucency allows light to pass through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the KD200 incorporates a nylon top housing, recognized for its ability to absorb sound, thus producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, users may find that the typing experience on these two switches varies significantly due to these contrasting materials at the top housing level.
While the top housings of the two switches differ, they share a common ground in their bottom housing, with both switches using nylon. This choice results in a deeper and rounder sound profile for both models when bottoming out, as nylon naturally dampens sound due to its softer composition. Here, the similarities in bottom housing materials lead to a more aligned acoustic experience for both switches, highlighting the depth and fullness characteristic of nylon. Thus, when typing down on either the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the KD200, users can expect a harmonious consistency in the bottom-out sound and feel, effectively bridging the gap between the two switches.
Ultimately, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the HMX KD200 differ in their top housing materials, with polycarbonate offering clarity and nylon providing warmth, they converge in the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This shared characteristic means that while the two switches will produce distinct sound profiles during different stages of keypress, they will yield notably similar results in terms of the bottom-out experience. For those who appreciate a well-rounded sound profile during typing, either switch will likely provide satisfactory performance, albeit with variations as influenced by their unique top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, both switches exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a similar level of resistance for typing or gaming, making them equally accessible for users who prefer lighter pressure on the keys. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro requiring 55 grams to fully engage, while the KD200 has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches feel similar at the actuation point, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly heavier feel upon bottoming out. Consequently, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro due to its higher bottom out force, whereas those who favor a lighter overall experience, especially for prolonged use, would likely prefer the HMX KD200.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which could influence user preference based on tactile feedback and responsiveness. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KD200 offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users who favor a more responsive experience for gaming or fast typing may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing keys might prefer the HMX KD200, as its 3.5 mm travel offers a sense of depth and stability in each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is renowned for its poppy and clacky profile, which enhances the typing experience for those who thrive on auditory feedback. The lively sounds that emerge while typing create an engaging atmosphere, making each keystroke feel satisfying and pronounced. Meanwhile, the HMX KD200, noted as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, likely shares a similar level of auditory engagement, producing sharp and resonant sounds that provide a comparable excitement during use. Though the exact nuances of their auditory characteristics may differ, both switches promise a vibrant sound experience that would appeal to enthusiasts of auditory stimuli.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro presents itself with a medium tactile response that's accentuated but not overwhelming, providing users with a balanced amount of tactile feedback. The bouncy nature of these switches adds a lively spring-like sensation, making the typing experience dynamic and enjoyable. Furthermore, the snappy response due to its refined mechanics contributes to an invigorating interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the KD200 switch remain unspecified; however, given its reputation for sound, it can be expected to deliver a tactile experience that complements its auditory crunch, likely providing some degree of feedback that satisfies users who prioritize tactile dynamics in their typing.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and HMX KD200 switches cater to users seeking a robust auditory and tactile experience, bringing a level of excitement and engagement to mechanical keyboard usage. The Cream Blue Pro impresses with its evident tactile feedback and a bouncy, polished feel, while the KD200's reputation for clackiness suggests a switch designed for users who value lively sounds alongside tactile satisfaction. While the specific feel of the KD200 is not detailed, the overall comparison indicates that users can expect an engaging typing experience from either switch, with unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you seek. If you enjoy a distinctly auditory and tactile feedback with a medium-light actuation force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is likely to be your go-to. Its poppy, clacky sound, combined with a pleasantly bouncy, snappy feel, can make typing both enjoyable and engaging, particularly for those who favor a lively and responsive keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, the KD200 linear switch would be a better fit. Offering a whisper-quiet operation and softer actuation force, it is ideal for users who want to focus on their work or gaming without the distraction of sound. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value tactile feedback and sound or a sleek, silent approach, so think about what aspects matter most for how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard.
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