TTC Gold Silver vs. HMX KD200

Overview

Choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can greatly enhance your typing experience, and two worthy contenders in the linear switch category are the TTC Gold Silver and the HMX KD200. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, featuring a shorter travel distance that culminates in a clear and solid bottom-out. This design not only assures precision with each press but also offers a pleasing, low-pitched sound that resonates well with typists seeking both speed and subtlety. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film switch family, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with their typing. While both switches provide a linear feel, making them ideal for gamers and typists who favor a smooth keypress without tactile bumps, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver leans towards a polished, silky experience with a mild sound profile, while the KD200 cranks up the volume and offers more pronounced feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver switches and the HMX KD200 switches, notable differences emerge in the top housing materials while the bottom housings share similarities. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer nature. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, allowing for a clearer and more resonant audio experience. In contrast, the KD200 incorporates a nylon top housing, which is softer and results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction indicates that while both switches may produce satisfying sound profiles, the Gold Silver is likely to offer a brighter sound due to its polycarbonate housing, whereas the KD200 will achieve a warmer, rounder auditory result.

Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, a choice that underscores a common characteristic between the two models. Nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, which contribute to creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by dampening higher frequencies. This similarity means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a satisfying bottom-out feel due to the nylon bottom housing. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both the TTC Gold Silver and HMX KD200 will produce a base sound quality that leans towards a softer and more rounded experience, courtesy of their identical nylon bottom housings.

It's essential to consider how the interplay between the top and bottom materials can influence the overall performance of each switch. The top housing's material plays a vital role in the type of sound experienced at the peak of the keystroke, while the bottom housing impacts the sound produced at the key's bottom-out point. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in the Gold Silver creates a distinct sound profile that merges clarity with a solid base, while the KD200’s entirely nylon construction offers a more unified and straightforward auditory experience. Ultimately, users seeking specific sound characteristics and typing experiences must weigh these differences and similarities to find the switch that best meets their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, ensuring similar keystroke activation experiences for typists and gamers alike. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly; while the bottom out force for the Gold Silver is unavailable, the KD200 features a measurable bottom out force of 50 grams, making it somewhat heavier in terms of the overall pressing experience. This difference suggests that users of the KD200 may experience a more substantial feel when fully pressing the key down, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver, with its undefined bottom out force, might appeal to users seeking a lighter switch, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, if you're looking for a more tactile and weighty experience, the HMX KD200 would be the better option; if you prefer a potentially lighter feel, the TTC Gold Silver might be the right choice, given its similar actuation force but unknown bottom out specifications.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this regard. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users looking for a consistent feel in their typing experience can confidently choose either option without concern for differences in the depth of actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched auditory experience that is both rich and satisfying with each keystroke. This deep sound creates a sense of depth and resonance, making it pleasing to type on for extended periods. The sound profile is neutral enough, allowing its use in various settings, from professional environments to casual gaming. In contrast, the HMX KD200 remains uncharacterized in terms of sound; thus, its auditory qualities are not defined, making it challenging to compare directly with the Gold Silver.

Regarding feel, the Gold Silver impresses with its polished, silky texture, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Each stroke is characterized by reduced friction and mild resistance, creating a gentle yet responsive interaction with the keyboard. This blend of comfort and precision allows for effortless typing, appealing to a wide range of users. On the other hand, there are no specific descriptors for the tactile sensation of the KD200; therefore, its feel remains an unknown factor, which leaves its overall typing experience open to interpretation.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out for its rich sound profile and exceptional feel, offering a refined experience for typists and gamers alike. The KD200, while known for its clackiness within the HMX Film switch series, requires further details to provide a complete comparison in sound and feel. For those who prioritize sound and tactile feedback, the Gold Silver is a solid choice, while the KD200’s characteristics remain to be discovered.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing context. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the TTC Gold Silver is an excellent choice. Its rapid actuation and smooth travel offer an enjoyable, fluid typing experience, making it ideal for gamers or typists who need to execute commands swiftly. The switch’s thocky sound adds a satisfying auditory element without being overly loud, which means you could comfortably use it in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more tactile and engaging typing experience with a noticeable clack, the KD200 would be the right fit. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it favorable for prolonged typing sessions, especially if you enjoy the sound and feel that comes with a clacky switch. In summary, choose the TTC Gold Silver for a refined, polished experience that emphasizes speed, while the HMX KD200 caters to those looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback and a lighter touch.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more