HMX KD200 vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Bsun Light Sakura both stand out as excellent linear options, each offering unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The HMX KD200, renowned for its distinctive clacky sound profile, appeals to those who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience while typing. Its pronounced feedback can serve as a satisfying auditory cue, adding character to each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura prioritizes a quieter, more discreet operation, making it an ideal choice for users in shared or professional environments. With its ultra-light feel, the Sakura aims to enhance comfort during prolonged typing sessions, catering to those who seek a gentler, fatigue-reducing experience without the distraction of sound. While both switches are designed as linear options, they cater to vastly different environments and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Light Sakura, we see a clear distinction in their choice of plastics, leading to different auditory experiences. The KD200 employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its stiffer counterparts. Consequently, the overall typing experience on the KD200 leans towards a more muted and rounded acoustics, which many users may find comforting, especially in a quieter working environment.
In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is inherently more rigid than nylon, translating into a higher-pitched and more resonant auditory experience upon keypresses. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also enables effective RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal. Users who prefer a more energetic typing feedback might gravitate towards the sharper tones produced by the Light Sakura, as it provides a completely different feel and auditory feedback than the KD200's plush soundscape.
Despite their differing materials, both the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Light Sakura can still produce desirable results depending on user preferences. For instance, while the KD200 offers a more subdued sound experience through its nylon construction, the Light Sakura excels in generating a lively auditory ambiance. This disparity means that the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preference: those leaning towards a deeper sound may prefer the KD200, while those who favor a bright and clear typing experience might opt for the Light Sakura. Ultimately, while the materials may differ, both switches deliver unique sound profiles that cater to various gamer and typist needs.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ in their specific measurements. The KD200 requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Light Sakura is even lighter, needing only 37 grams to actuate and 43 grams to bottom out. This makes the Light Sakura the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the KD200, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth experience but cater to slightly different preferences in terms of weight and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, the KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Light Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the KD200 is the shorter of the two options, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker key actuations. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may gravitate toward the Light Sakura, given its longer distance which offers a depthier experience. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, so users seeking similar tactile feedback might find satisfactory results with either option, depending on their preference for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 HMX KD200 linear switch is characterized as clacky, making it the most audibly prominent switch in the HMX Film family. This clackiness can generate a lively auditory feedback that many users find satisfying, particularly those who enjoy a distinct sound when typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is engineered for silence, offering a discreet typing experience that is well-suited for quieter environments such as offices or shared workspaces. This switch's design prioritizes a hushed operation, allowing users to type without drawing attention or disturbing those nearby. Thus, if you're selecting between these two, the KD200 will deliver a more pronounced sound, while the Light Sakura excels in environments where noise levels need to be minimized.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 is known for providing a robust tactile sensation that many users find enjoyable, contributing to a gratifying and engaging typing experience. Its clacky nature may also enhance this tactile response, giving feedback that encourages a faster and more dynamic typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Light Sakura switch is described as ultra-light, catering to users who prefer a gentler touch. This lightness not only promotes comfort during prolonged typing sessions but also minimizes finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for those who type extensively. Therefore, while the KD200 offers a more substantial and engaging feel, the Light Sakura promises a softer, fatigue-reducing experience, well-suited for extended use.
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches hinges on your preferences for sound and feel. The KD200 is an excellent option for those who enjoy a pronounced audio signature and tactile feedback, while the Light Sakura is ideal for users seeking a silent and comfortable typing experience. Each switch appeals to different typing styles and environments, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup according to personal needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you appreciate a bit of auditory feedback and enjoy a more tactile feel while typing, the KD200 may be the perfect fit for you. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, combined with its distinctively clacky sound profile, can enhance your typing experience, making it satisfying, especially for those who enjoy a lively keyboard. However, if you prioritize a quiet, discreet operation or plan to use your keyboard in shared or office spaces, the Bsun Light Sakura is likely the better choice. With its ultra-light 43-gram actuation force, it is designed for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue, ensuring comfort while keeping noise to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prefer the engaging sound and feel of the KD200 or the serene, fatigue-reducing qualities of the Light Sakura.
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