TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX KD200 present compelling options for those who prefer linear switches. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, ensuring a smooth and accessible typing experience suitable for a wide range of activities—from gaming to professional work. Its neutral sound profile strikes a balance between being noticeable yet unobtrusive, making it a great choice for users who value a harmonious auditory environment. Conversely, the HMX KD200 stands out for its character, presenting a clackier feedback that sets it apart within the linear switch category. This switch favors those who enjoy audibly satisfying keystrokes while still providing a reliably smooth action. Ultimately, each switch fulfills different preferences and needs, whether one seeks a subtle whisper of sound from the Gold Red Pro or a more pronounced acoustic experience with the KD200. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX KD200, we find notable differences in their top housings, yet similarities in their bottom housings that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more resonant sound. Its translucency provides an added aesthetic advantage for RGB lighting, enhancing visual effects during use. In contrast, the HMX KD200 opts for a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a duller quality, which may be preferred for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the Gold Red Pro and the KD200 incorporate nylon materials. The characteristics of nylon contribute to a consistent experience in terms of sound profile. Users can expect a rounded and more muted feedback when bottoming out the switches in either case, as nylon's soft structure minimizes the impact noise, creating a more subdued typing experience. This shared aspect guarantees that, irrespective of the top housing material, the bottom-out sound will be similarly influenced by nylon's sound-absorbing qualities.
Ultimately, while the Gold Red Pro and HMX KD200 exhibit distinct differences in their top housing compositions, their identical use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a shared sound characteristic during bottom-out impacts. Consequently, this means that though users may experience varied auditory sensations upon pressing a key, both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound due to their nylon bottom housings. Thus, regardless of the differing materials in the top housing, users can achieve similar sound profiles when considering the entire switch assembly, particularly during the act of bottoming out.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch exhibit differences in their actuation forces, providing distinct typing experiences. The Gold Red Pro requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the KD200 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Gold Red Pro a lighter option, which may be preferable for users seeking prolonged typing comfort or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the KD200’s heavier actuation force might appeal to those who enjoy a more robust push feel. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the KD200's bottom out force is pegged at 50 grams, which is considered light. As a result, if a user prefers a lighter actuation and a defined bottoming out experience, the Gold Red Pro may suit them well, though the lack of a specified bottom out force introduces some uncertainty regarding its full range of feel during extended use. Conversely, the KD200 provides a more consistent feedback with its known forces, making it a more predictable option for those who prefer a heavier feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX KD200 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Gold Red Pro offers a deeper keystroke experience, which some users may prefer for a more solid feel while typing or gaming. Conversely, the KD200's shorter travel distance could appeal to those seeking quicker actuation and responsiveness, which is often advantageous for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Both switches fall within the range of contemporary preferences, with shorter distances becoming increasingly popular. Therefore, while both switches offer their own unique advantages, those preferring a more pronounced depth will gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro for its greater travel distance, whereas users seeking a more rapid response will favor the KD200.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Red Pro linear switch stands out with its thocky, low-pitched tones, creating a deep and rich auditory experience reminiscent of a soft thud or knock upon actuation. This sound profile allows for a versatile use case in various environments, from gaming to office work, without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the HMX KD200 switch is noted to be the clackiest member of its family, which suggests a more pronounced, potentially higher-pitched sound. While it's unclear how this particular sound signature compares to that of the Gold Red Pro, it may not provide the same neutral versatility, possibly making it less suitable for quieter settings.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro clearly excels. With descriptors like polished, silky, mild, and subtle, it promises a smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by minimal resistance and refined key travel. Such features make it approachable for both new and experienced typists, enhancing comfort over extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, no specific qualities are provided for the HMX KD200's feel, leaving its tactile experience unknown.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a well-rounded combination of sound and feel, suited for diverse environments and user preferences, the HMX KD200 presents a different auditory experience with its clackiness. If you prefer a rich, refined typing experience, the Gold Red Pro is the preferable choice; however, without additional details on the KD200's feel, it remains a more mysterious option. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in adaptability and comfort from the Gold Red Pro, while the KD200 may cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX KD200 linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing environment. If you seek a versatile switch that offers an exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience with minimal resistance, the Gold Red Pro is likely your best bet. Its neutral sound profile and mild touch make it suitable for a wide variety of tasks, from gaming to office work, without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that stands out acoustically and offers a more noticeable tactile feedback, the HMX KD200, known for its clackier sound signature, might be the right choice. Although it has a slightly stiffer bottom-out force, which is still quite light at 50 grams, it caters well to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you intend to use your keyboard, whether you prioritize subtle, smooth interactions or a louder, more engaging sound profile.
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