TTC Flaming Purple vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Purple and the HMX KD200 stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its unique resonant character, characterized by a neutral sound signature that leans slightly towards bass, creating a satisfying auditory experience with its poppy undertone. With a bottom-out force of just 47g, this switch offers a feather-light feel, making it a favorite among those who value swift and effortless typing, whether for gaming or daily use. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 distinguishes itself as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. While both switches serve the linear switch preference, their distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences lend themselves to different typing styles and preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When evaluating the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the HMX KD200, the differences in their top housings present a notable contrast in sound profiles and aesthetic capabilities. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and resulting sharper sound characteristics. This material allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it a favorable choice for users who enjoy a crisper auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, as it allows light to pass through, enhancing the visual experience. On the other hand, the KD200 employs a nylon top housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This aspect absorbs more sound and contributes to a rounder acoustic profile. As a result, users of the KD200 may find the typing experience to be more muted, indicating a preference for warmth over sharpness in sound.
In terms of bottom housings, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the HMX KD200 utilize nylon materials, creating a sense of uniformity in their sound profiles in this particular aspect. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller auditory feedback common in the switches. As nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, the bottom-out experience across the board will feel substantial and soft. With both switches employing this type of housing, users can expect similar sound depth and rounded feel when the switch is actuated, regardless of the differences in their top housings. This consistency fosters a cohesive typing experience that resonates with those who favor tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials in both switches shapes the overall user experience. With the TTC Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing bringing a crisp, resonant quality in terms of sound release, contrasted against the softer and deeper qualities of the KD200's nylon top housing, the overall acoustics of each switch are steeply influenced by these choices. While they share similarities in the bottom housing's effect on sound and feel, the distinct top housing materials delicately balance the sharpness of the Flaming Purple against the roundness of the KD200. Enthusiasts may thus choose between these options depending on their preferences for sound clarity versus fullness, showcasing how housing materials can dramatically alter the typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both exhibit relatively light force characteristics, making them suitable for prolonged use during typing or gaming sessions. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the KD200 exhibits a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches are light, the Flaming Purple is the lighter option overall. The actuation force of the Flaming Purple is slightly lower, which may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Conversely, the KD200 might cater to those seeking a more substantial feel, albeit still within the realm of lighter switches. In terms of bottom out forces, both switches remain light, although the KD200’s forces are marginally higher. Therefore, if users want a more feathery typing experience, the Flaming Purple would be their best choice, while those who prefer a tad more resistance should opt for the KD200.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX KD200 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.1 mm means that the Flaming Purple offers a marginally deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience. Conversely, the KD200, with its shorter travel distance, may provide quicker actuation, catering to gamers or those who prioritize responsiveness and speed in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches are designed for smooth performance, those seeking a more pronounced depth should lean towards the Flaming Purple, while the KD200 may appeal more to users who appreciate faster key responses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch resonates with a bassy quality that lends a richer and deeper auditory experience to each key press. Its low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a smooth yet slightly poppy undertone, offers an engaging auditory flair that elevates the typing experience. This switch's resonant nature ensures a clean and sharp sound, making every keystroke feel more pronounced. In contrast, the HMX KD200 switch is noted for being the clackiest member of its family; however, specific attributes regarding its sound profile are not provided. Therefore, while the Flaming Purple provides a distinctive auditory experience, the KD200 may deliver a livelier sound profile, but the exact characteristics remain unclear.
In terms of feel, the Flaming Purple excels with its feathery and silky qualities, requiring just 47g of force to bottom out. This light actuation force makes typing effortless, reducing finger fatigue over long sessions, which is beneficial for gaming or heavy work use. The smoothness of the switch enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke pleasurable and responsive. The HMX KD200's feel is not described here, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares. However, if it shares any characteristics with other members of its family, it might provide a different tactile feedback that could appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced and distinct feel while typing, though this remains unknown.
In conclusion, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a unique sound profile and an exceptionally comfortable typing experience with its light actuation and smooth nature, the HMX KD200's strengths in sound and feel are less defined. If sound and typing experience are paramount to your selection, the Flaming Purple provides a delightful balance of auditory engagement and tactile comfort. If you’re inclined to explore the clackier world of the KD200, you may find it appealing, though specific qualities remain to be discovered. Thus, your choice may hinge on personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both switches offer engaging experiences in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, your choice between the TTC Flaming Purple and the HMX KD200 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you find joy in a lighter touch and appreciate a rich, bassy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Flaming Purple is an excellent pick. Its low actuation force of 47 grams makes it particularly suitable for those long typing sessions, whether for work or gaming, as its feathery feel can help reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you are in search of a switch that provides a more pronounced click and a somewhat more robust sound profile, then the HMX KD200 may be the better choice for you, especially if you enjoy the auditory feedback of a clackier switch. Additionally, while both switches are relatively light, the KD200's slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams might appeal to those seeking a touch more resistance during key presses. Ultimately, consider how the sound and feel of each switch align with your typing style, as this will guide you to a more satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
