Bsun Hutt vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, one of the most prominent factors to consider is the feel and sound profile of the switches themselves. The Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its medium-heavy spring and pronounced tactile bump, delivering a snappy and invigorating typing experience that many typists and gamers find satisfying. Its balanced sound profile adds a layer of enjoyment that complements the tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those seeking both performance and pleasure while typing. On the other hand, the HMX KD200, a linear switch, is renowned for being the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family, offering a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump. This results in a quieter operation, making it an appealing option for users who prefer a seamless typing experience and a more subdued sound environment. While each switch has its unique strengths—be it the Hutt’s engaging tactile feedback or the KD200’s fluid linear action—both cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
49g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Hutt and the HMX KD200 exhibit notable differences that shape their sound profiles and overall tactile experiences. The Bsun Hutt employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting setups due to its clear nature. In contrast, the HMX KD200 utilizes a nylon top housing, characterized by its softer composition. This choice inherently leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder auditory output. Therefore, while both switches may provide satisfying typing experiences, the Bsun Hutt is inclined towards clarity and brightness, while the KD200 leans toward warmth and richness.
When analyzing the bottom housings, both the Bsun Hutt and HMX KD200 utilize nylon, reinforcing the characteristics of a deeper sound profile shared by both switches. This uniformity in material means that users can expect similar auditory results when engaging with the bottom housing of either switch. As the nylon absorbs sound, it helps to create a consistent bottom-out feel across both models. The bottom housing typically has a more profound impact on sound and feel when the key is bottomed out. Thus, even though the top housing materials differ significantly between the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing alleviates any drastic discrepancies in overall tactile experience.
In consideration of both top and bottom housing materials, it becomes clear how the interplay of different materials affects the sound and feel of the switches. With the Bsun Hutt's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, the switch's sound is defined by a contrasting profile that emphasizes clarity on key release, paired with a rounded bottom-out experience. Conversely, the HMX KD200 brings a certain cohesion with its nylon top and bottom that enhances the deeper sound throughout the entire keystroke. Ultimately, while distinct housing materials yield different sound qualities, the common use of nylon in the bottoms brings about a unified depth that users can appreciate in both switches.
Weight
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience. The Hutt switch features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams, while the KD200 has slightly higher values, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. As a result, the Hutt switch is the lighter option, making it better suited for prolonged use, such as in work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the KD200, with its heavier actuation force, provides a firmer push feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer a light force profile, the Bsun Hutt switch is the lighter choice, providing a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and performance when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches provide the same travel distance, they will deliver similar tactile feedback during use, making them well-suited for those who prefer a consistent keypress experience across their keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is notably resonant, characterized by a higher-pitched tonal quality that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. This balanced sound adds a certain richness to the typing experience, making it immersive without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 linear switch is celebrated for being the clackiest member of its family, implying that it produces a more pronounced and louder sound upon actuation. While the Hutt offers a harmonious blend of sound that may appeal to those who appreciate a subtle yet clear auditory feedback, the KD200 caters to users who enjoy a more boisterous and pronounced sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Hutt tactile switch excels with its combination of snappiness and a pronounced tactile bump. Users can expect a highly responsive typing experience due to its medium-heavy spring and invigorating characteristics, which provide sharp feedback with every keystroke. This translates to a lively sensation that keeps the user engaged. The tactile feedback is accentuated without being overwhelming, striking a balance that many typists find satisfying. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX KD200 linear switch remains unknown, making it difficult to compare directly against the Hutt.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch stands out with its resonant sound and highly responsive, pronounced tactile feel, the HMX KD200 linear switch brings its own flair with a loud clacking sound and an undisclosed feel. For newcomers to mechanical keyboards, the Hutt offers a well-rounded typing experience that is both enjoyable and engaging, whereas the KD200 may be preferable for those who desire a louder and more pronounced auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you desire. If you appreciate a more tactile feel with a pronounced bump that offers snappy and invigorating feedback, the Hutt is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force of 49 grams, combined with its resonant sound profile, produces an engaging and enjoyable typing experience, especially suited for those who enjoy feeling each keystroke distinctly. This switch is ideal for typists who thrive on tactile feedback and prefer a more immersive auditory experience while they type. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother keypress and appreciate the clackiness often associated with linear switches, then the HMX KD200 would be more appropriate. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, it still maintains a lightweight feel but prioritizes smoothness and a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for gamers or those who prefer fast-paced, uninterrupted typing. In essence, your choice between the Hutt and the KD200 should align with whether you value tactile feedback and sound or a smooth and quieter response, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard setup is perfectly tailored to your typing style.