TTC Ice vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the perfect linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, both the TTC Ice and the HMX KD200 present compelling options, each with their own unique characteristics. The TTC Ice switch is celebrated for its crystal-clear transparent design, offering not only a smooth and responsive feel but also a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for both gaming enthusiasts and casual typists alike. Its visual appeal and tactile performance cater to users who appreciate a more premium typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 sets itself apart as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which may attract those who enjoy a louder auditory feedback while typing, adding an extra layer of engagement and satisfaction. While both switches are linear and designed for seamless keystrokes, their distinct auditory and tactile attributes provide different experiences, allowing you to choose based on personal preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Ice and the HMX KD200 switches present a notable contrast in their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The TTC Ice features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its ability to provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the material's stiffer properties. This crispness makes polycarbonate particularly effective in environments where RGB lighting is utilized, as its translucency allows for vibrant light diffusion. In contrast, the HMX KD200 employs a nylon top housing, which is traditionally known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon’s softer texture absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience. While both materials exhibit their strengths, polycarbonate's ability to enhance brightness and clarity stands in stark opposition to nylon's tendency to produce a warmer, more muted sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the TTC Ice switches continue using polycarbonate, which again aligns with the characteristics that contribute to a sharper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing means that the Ice's sound will maintain consistency in its clarity and resonation, resulting in an overall sharper auditory feedback when both pressing and releasing a key. Conversely, the HMX KD200 switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing as well, reinforcing the characteristics that provide a deeper sound profile. The interaction between the soft nylon housing at both the top and bottom emphasizes the overall fullness and warmth of the sound produced, completing the sensory experience of typing with rounded acoustics.
Ultimately, both switches highlight how different materials affect user experience through their sound profiles. While the TTC Ice's combination of polycarbonate for both housing sections elicits a clear and vibrant sound, the HMX KD200’s nylon composition emphasizes a fuller, richer result. If the combination of switch types includes both polycarbonate and nylon, the acoustic effects would be a blend, showcasing the polycarbonate's brightness alongside the fullness of nylon. Thus, the housing material composition directly shapes keypress feedback, with different materials offering distinct sounds and tactile experiences as a result of their physio-aesthetic properties.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning typists will experience a similar touch and responsiveness when pressing the keys. However, they differ in their bottom out forces, with the Ice switch requiring a heavier 60 grams to fully press down, compared to the lighter 50 grams of the KD200 switch. As a result, while both provide a similar feel during key actuation, the Ice switch may offer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a firmer tactile response. In contrast, the KD200, being lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force, might be more desirable for those who engage in longer typing sessions or gaming, as it can reduce fatigue. Therefore, while both switches have the same actuation force, the differing bottom out forces cater to different preferences in typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KD200 measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter switch between the two, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times due to its reduced distance. Conversely, the TTC Ice offers a more substantial press with its longer travel distance, which may provide a sense of depth and satisfaction for users who prefer a more traditional feel. Both switches fall within the modern trend towards shorter travel distances, but the Ice switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a prompt, snappy response, the KD200 would be the better choice, whereas the Ice switch would cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 TTC Ice linear switch produces a satisfying bottom-out sound that many users find appealing, which contributes to an overall pleasant auditory experience during both typing and gaming. It strikes a balance that enhances the tactile feedback while remaining relatively quiet, making it suitable for shared or quieter environments. In contrast, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family, offering a more pronounced sound profile that can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While the KD200 generates a louder response, it's important to remember that the sound experience can vary significantly based on the keyboard’s design, materials, and the type of keycaps employed, which affects how each switch's sound is perceived.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Ice switch excels with its smooth and responsive action, providing a seamless typing experience ideal for both gamers and casual users. Its design allows for a fluid keystroke without any bump or resistance, which many find enhances overall performance and enjoyment. Conversely, the KD200 linear switch also aims for a smooth feel, but the clackiness in its sound tends to be accompanied by an overall stiffer actuation that might not appeal to everyone. This contrast in feel means that while both switches are linear and provide a degree of smoothness, the user experience may differ based on sensitivity to sound and tactile feedback preferences.
In summary, both the TTC Ice and HMX KD200 linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Ice switch is favored for its satisfying yet quieter auditory feedback alongside its smooth actuation, making it a versatile choice. On the other hand, the KD200’s clackiness and pronounced sound can add a layer of enjoyment for those who appreciate more auditory stimulation. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will hinge on individual priorities, whether that’s selecting for a subtle, refined experience with the Ice or a punchier auditory character from the KD200. Users can expect to have satisfying results with both switches, focusing on their unique auditory and tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, you should consider both your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force that provides a balanced typing experience, the Ice switch, with its smooth and responsive feel, is ideal. Its clear design not only enhances aesthetics but also offers a satisfying sound, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and daily typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KD200 could be more suitable, particularly if you enjoy a clackier sound profile and a distinct auditory feedback that sets it apart as the clackiest option in its family. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on whether you prioritize a soothing typing experience with the Ice or a more pronounced, energetic feel with the KD200.
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