TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX KD200, each catering to different preferences and styles. The TTC Gold Brown, known for its balanced feel, features a slight tactile bump that offers satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a moderate level of resistance during typing. Its softer sound profile enhances a quieter work environment, appealing to users who may share their space with others. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest option within the HMX Film switch family, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a pronounced auditory response and a linear typing experience that allows for smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. While the Gold Brown is a superb choice for those seeking a tactile and refined experience, the KD200 caters to users who thrive on auditory feedback and fluidity in their keystrokes. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX KD200, it becomes clear that these switches utilize contrasting materials for their top housings, while their bottom housings share a common component. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This makes the Gold Brown particularly appealing for users who favor a more pronounced auditory experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual of the lighting effects. In contrast, the KD200 employs a nylon top housing, which has classic characteristics, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer composition tends to absorb sound, creating a more rounded auditory experience that may appeal to users who prefer a duller tone when typing.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a similar sound profile among them when it comes to the bottom-out feel and auditory experience. The nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Gold Brown and the KD200 when the switches are actuated. This shared characteristic suggests that while the top housings deliver distinctly different auditory experiences, both switches will resonate similarly at the bottom-out point, providing a sense of unity in their performance despite the variance in top housing materials. This utilization of nylon as a bottom housing material underscores its classic appeal and effectiveness in enhancing the typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of distinct top housing materials with a shared nylon bottom housing introduces a unique aspect to the tactile and auditory experience users will encounter with the Gold Brown and KD200 switches. While the Gold Brown’s polycarbonate offers a crisper sound upon release, the KD200’s nylon top provides a warmer auditory profile, yet both switches share the richness derived from the nylon bottom. Thus, even though users will detect various tonal qualities based on the top housing material, the bottom housing's contribution ensures an overall satisfying typing rhythm, whether one favors the clarity of the Gold Brown or the depth of the KD200.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, positioning it in the medium range for tactile feedback, which some typists may appreciate for a more substantial feel during use. In contrast, the KD200 boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more effortless option for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, the Gold Brown is the heavier switch, providing a firmer resistance, while the KD200 is the lighter choice, facilitating quicker and less strenuous keystrokes. For users who value long-term typing sessions without fatigue, the KD200 may be more suitable, whereas those seeking a more robust and tactile experience might prefer the TTC Gold Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, a notable difference emerges between the two. The Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a more substantial keypress feel. In contrast, the KD200 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to the growing trend among gamers who favor quicker response times. Thus, for those seeking a harmonious blend of depth and feedback, the Gold Brown's longer travel distance is preferable. Conversely, if immediate action and responsiveness are paramount, the KD200's shorter travel distance would better suit your needs. Overall, while both switches offer distinct characteristics, the Gold Brown provides a more traditional depth, whereas the KD200 offers a snappier experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown switches present a rounded and softer profile compared to many other mechanical switches, making them more suited for quiet environments. The sound is relatively neutral, offering a balance that works well for both casual and professional settings, which is ideal for newcomers looking for versatility. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 linear switch is noted for being the clackiest member of its switch family. This suggests a more pronounced auditory feedback that may be less suitable for shared spaces but could appeal to those who enjoy a louder keystroke experience. Overall, if you prefer a gentler soundscape, the Gold Brown is the way to go; if you’re after something more expressive and audible, the KD200 is your pick.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown switches are characterized by a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means they offer a gentle, smooth, and refined touch that is easy on the fingers, making them a great option for both long typing sessions and casual gaming. Their tactile bump is prominent yet not overwhelming, ensuring that users receive clear feedback without disruptive scratchiness. Conversely, the HMX KD200 linear switch lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, typically, linear switches are known for a smooth keystroke without the tactile feedback present in the Gold Brown switches, potentially offering a different typing dynamic.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gold Brown provides a balanced auditory experience with a gentle tactile sensation, making it versatile for a broad range of users. The KD200, being clackier, targets those who enjoy a louder typing experience but offers less information about its tactile qualities. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a quieter, more refined feel versus a more pronounced auditory feedback, and how these switches align with your intended use cases.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a balanced typing experience with a moderate resistance and a soft yet satisfying tactile bump, the Gold Brown may be your go-to option. Its neutral sound profile and mild feel make it versatile for various settings, whether you're casually typing at home or working in a more professional environment. Conversely, if you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke, the KD200 could be your ideal switch. Known for its clacky sound, the KD200 is perfect for those who love to hear their typing as they work or game, as well as for anyone who prefers a smooth, effortless key press. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean towards a tactile experience with the Gold Brown or the more fluid, linear action of the KD200. Choose the one that best aligns with how you want to interact with your keyboard.
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