Bsun Jade Rosales vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX KD200 linear switches offers enthusiasts distinct qualities worth considering. The Bsun Jade Rosales stands out for its meticulous design by XY Studio, featuring custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques that culminate in an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience. This makes it an excellent option for users seeking a seamless and refined interaction with their keyboard, perfect for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the HMX KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a different appeal with its unique sound profile and tactile feedback, which can elevate the sensory experience of typing. While both switches cater to linear preferences, each brings its own unique character that may align differently with individual user needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Y3X
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX KD200, we see a notable contrast between their top housing compositions. The Jade Rosales utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a crisper and sharper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, which facilitate a clearer resonance, making it particularly adept at enhancing RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. In contrast, the KD200 features a classic nylon top housing, which is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material leads to distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Jade Rosales aiming for a more vibrant sound while the KD200 offers a warmer tone.
In examining the bottom housing of both switches, we find that the Jade Rosales employs a Custom Milky Material proprietary to BSUN, while the KD200 relies on traditional nylon for its bottom housing. The Jade Rosales’s unique blend is designed to complement the sharper output of the polycarbonate top housing, ensuring that the overall sound experience aligns with the clearer auditory characteristics. Meanwhile, the KD200's nylon bottom housing continues the theme of deepening the sound profile, promoting a fuller bottom-out feel that resonates well with typists who prefer a more subdued sound. In essence, the bottom housings reflect the distinct aesthetic intentions of each switch, with BSUN’s proprietary material aiming for a specific resonance to match its polycarbonate counterpart, while the KD200 sticks with nylon for a classic approach.
Ultimately, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of both switches lead to distinct auditory experiences, but they also illustrate how varying attributes can complement each other within a single keyboard switch design. Each housing interacts with the keypress action; for instance, the stiffer polycarbonate top of the Jade Rosales emphasizes auditory clarity when releasing keys, while the softer nylon in the KD200 enriches the sound profile with deeper tones during typing. Despite these differences, if one were to swap the top or bottom housings between the two, achieving a balance of tonal qualities could yield a hybrid sound experience, showcasing the potential for customizable acoustics derived from their respective materials.
Weight
The Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch offer a comparable actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that both switches are equally responsive in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Jade Rosales measuring at 53 grams and the KD200 at 50 grams. This means that while both switches feel light to actuate, the Jade Rosales requires a slightly heavier force when fully pressed down. Consequently, the KD200 is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more suitable for users looking for a switch that minimizes fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Jade Rosales for its somewhat firmer bottom out feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, resulting in comparable actuation feedback and responsiveness. Since the travel distance is equal, those looking for a consistent feel in their keyboard can confidently choose between these two switches without worrying about differences in how far the key must be pressed down.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales 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 Jade Rosales linear switch is characterized by a smooth and subdued tone, which results in a quieter typing experience that many users appreciate for both personal and professional settings. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 linear switch is known for its pronounced and clacky sound, making it the loudest choice in the HMX Film switch family. This clear auditory feedback can be satisfying to some users, while it may be disruptive in quieter environments. Ultimately, both options will produce distinct sound profiles, heavily influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Jade Rosales switches excel in providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, attributed to the careful refinement of their custom housings, stems, and lubrication techniques. This smoothness enhances the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for long typing sessions. In comparison, the KD200’s tactile response could be described as more pronounced due to its clackiness, delivering a slightly different sensation as users engage with each keystroke. Though both switches belong to the linear category, their respective characteristics lead to unique and contrasting experiences in terms of feel.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Jade Rosales and the HMX KD200 switches cater to distinct preferences, offering different auditory and tactile experiences, the choice ultimately boils down to individual taste. The Jade Rosales provides a quiet, smooth typing feel ideal for focused environments, while the KD200 appeals to those who may appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback with a clackier response. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can enhance your typing experience and deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will play a crucial role in making the right choice. If you prefer a medium-light switch that offers a tailored, exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Jade Rosales is ideal for you, especially during long typing sessions where comfort and feedback matter. Its craftsmanship ensures each keystroke is satisfying without being too heavy, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and the added engagement of a clackier sound profile, the KD200 could be your best bet. This switch caters well to those who revel in auditory feedback and want a lively, responsive feel under their fingers, making it particularly fun for gaming. Ultimately, consider what aspects you value more—whether it's the refined smoothness of the Jade Rosales or the lively sound and light actuation of the KD200—and you’ll find one of these switches will better meet your needs.
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