Gateron Glory Yellow vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different options, with the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX KD200 standing out as two compelling linear switches. The Gateron Glory Yellow, renowned for its heavier feel within the Glory lineup, offers a smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a solid and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX KD200, celebrated as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides a unique auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile. While both switches share the linear characteristic that ensures a quiet operation and minimal resistance, their distinct features cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for both the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX KD200 switches are notably similar, as both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality leads to a comparable sound profile when typing on these switches. The use of nylon, a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, allowing users to appreciate a more subdued and rounder sound due to the softer nature of the plastic. Consequently, you can expect to achieve a consistent acoustic quality across both switch types, with the nylon effectively absorbing sound and enhancing the overall typing experience.
While both switches employ nylon for their housing, the particular construction and design nuances could introduce minor differences in tactile feedback or sound character. However, with both top and bottom pieces made of nylon in both the Gateron Glory Yellow and HMX KD200, the essential qualities of each switch remain harmonized. As a result, users will experience a similar bottoming-out sound and feel across both switches, given the nylon material's inherent properties. This consistency makes both switches favorable for users seeking a balanced and uniform typing experience, particularly when sound isolation is a priority.
Moreover, the design of the bottom and top housings plays a significant role in how sound is transmitted during typing. In both the Glory Yellow and KD200 models, the sound profile will be primarily influenced by the nylon used in the bottom housing, which affects the impact of each keystroke, while the top housing influences the release sound. Since both models utilize nylon throughout, users will benefit from a similar tactile and auditory experience, ensuring that whether typing on the Gateron Glory Yellow or the HMX KD200, one can enjoy the rich, full sound profile characteristic of high-quality nylon switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, making it more resistant to being pressed down, while the KD200 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This lighter force in the KD200 could contribute to a more comfortable typing experience for those engaging in long work sessions or extended gaming periods. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, whereas the KD200 has a clearly defined bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the actuation forces differ, the KD200 provides a consistent heavier feel upon bottoming out. Overall, for individuals who prefer a lighter key feel for prolonged use, the HMX KD200 would likely be a better choice, whereas those who favor a firmer touch may lean towards the Gateron Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow provides a more substantial depth that many typists may appreciate for its tactile feedback, making it ideal for users who prefer a hearty feel. On the other hand, the KD200’s 3.5 mm travel distance offers a more responsive experience, which could be particularly appealing to gamers seeking quicker activation times. Consequently, opting for the KD200 may enhance your gameplay, while the Glory Yellow might be preferable for those who enjoy a fuller key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Glory Yellow linear switch is characterized by a relatively muted profile, providing a smooth and unobtrusive auditory experience that enhances the typing feel without being too distracting. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest member of its family, offering a more pronounced sound with a sharper acoustic presence that can be quite engaging for those who prefer a bit of auditory feedback with each keystroke. It’s essential to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, which could lead to varying experiences even with the same switch model.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is known for its smooth keystroke and comfortable travel distance, making it an enjoyable option for extended typing sessions. The resistance is balanced, which helps to deliver a satisfying feedback without feeling overly stiff. Conversely, the HMX KD200 switch, while also linear, is likely to provide a feeling that engenders a greater connection to each hit due to its clackier nature, although detailed descriptions concerning its specific tactile feedback are not available. Accordingly, while both switches offer a linear feel, the contextual experience may differ significantly due to the tonal characteristics and the feedback sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the HMX KD200 linear switches serve distinct preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Glory Yellow excels in providing a smooth and refined typing experience with muted acoustics, making it suitable for those who favor a quieter environment. In contrast, the KD200 appeals to users who appreciate a clackier sound profile that adds a crisp element to their typing. Despite their differences, both switches offer uniquely enjoyable experiences that cater to different tastes and typist needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound. If you prefer a smoother keystroke combined with a lighter actuation force, the Gateron Glory Yellow might be the ideal choice for you. Its pleasing travel distance enhances the overall typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. However, if you enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback when typing, the HMX KD200 is definitely worth considering. Known for its clacky sound profile and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, it offers a more lively typing experience that adds a unique character to each keystroke. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you value a smooth and subtle sound versus a punchy and pronounced auditory feedback. Whatever your choice, both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in their own distinct ways.
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