HMX KD200 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, users often gravitate towards two intriguing options: the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The KD200 is celebrated for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a distinct auditory experience that many gamers and typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, produced by Haimu, which contributes to a silky, seamless typing experience. Additionally, the Lightning Silver V3's unique light diffuser enhances RGB illumination, adding a vibrant flair to any keyboard setup. While both switches offer a satisfying linear feel and an engaging auditory personality, your choice will ultimately depend on your preference for sound and aesthetics. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 represent two distinct approaches to switch housing materials, each offering unique auditory experiences. The KD200 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, not only absorbs sound but also dampens the vibrations that can contribute to sharper audio feedback. This can lead to a typing experience that feels smoother and less jarring, appealing to those who prefer a muted sound. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 uses polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which introduces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant auditory response, highlighting each keystroke with crispness that enhances the typing experience for users seeking more pronounced feedback.
Aesthetically, the differences in materials also influence the overall appeal of each switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 maximizes the effectiveness of RGB lighting, creating vivid illumination effects that enhance the visual experience. In contrast, the KD200's nylon housing lacks this transparency, making it less suitable for showcasing lighting features. This visual attribute may sway potential buyers towards the Lightning Silver V3, particularly gamers or typists who prioritize eye-catching designs alongside functionality. Despite the differences in housing material and appearance, both switches can still yield similar results in terms of performance, depending on user preferences for sound and feel.
In terms of tactile feedback and user experience, the KD200's nylon constructions result in a more rounded and subdued auditory feedback, while the Lightning Silver V3 provides a sharper and crisper response. When pressed down, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel for both switches. As users release a key, the properties of the top housing will determine the sound produced, further emphasizing the need to consider individual preferences when evaluating these switches. A user accustomed to the quiet typing experience provided by the KD200 may be surprised by the lively sound of the Lightning Silver V3, while those who appreciate a sonic clarity might find themselves drawn to the advantages presented by polycarbonate in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on a blend of auditory preference, aesthetic appeal, and desired responsiveness.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions with less fatigue. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. This difference in actuation and bottom out forces indicates that the KD200 is the lighter option overall, while the Lightning Silver V3 provides a more pronounced feel. Both switches will produce different tactile experiences, making the KD200 a better choice for comfort-driven users and the Lightning Silver V3 preferred by those seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This comparison reveals that the KD200 provides a deeper keypress experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3, with its marginally shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Although the difference between the two is minimal, the KD200 allows for a fuller depth, making it more suitable for those who enjoy a pronounced keystroke, whereas the Lightning Silver V3 caters to those who favor a snappier actuation. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Lightning Silver V3 would be your go-to option, while the KD200 would be better suited for users who appreciate a more hearty typing experience.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of its switch family, promising a distinctive auditory experience. This clackiness may appeal to those who enjoy pronounced sound feedback while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 also boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sharpness can be invigorating, especially for those who prefer a swifter auditory feedback. Both switches produce a lively sound profile, but positional differences, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, can influence their overall sound quality.
In terms of feel, the KD200's specific tactile qualities remain unmentioned, leaving its precise typing experience unknown. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 shines with its silky smoothness, offering an exceptionally seamless typing experience that minimizes resistance. This delightful tactile feedback allows for rapid keystrokes without any hindrance, making it particularly enticing for users who type quickly or engage in gaming. While the KD200's feel is left to exploration, the Lightning Silver V3 serves as a clear choice for those prioritizing a fluid and effortless key press.
In summary, both the HMX KD200 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 deliver unique auditory experiences, with the former emphasizing its clackiness and the latter presenting a high-pitched and crisp sound. While the feel of the KD200 remains uncertain, the Lightning Silver V3 excels with its smooth typing experience. If you are drawn to a lively auditory feedback and prioritize a seamless typing feel, you would likely find satisfaction with either switch, yet the Lightning Silver V3 may offer a clearer advantage in terms of tactile smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches, your choice should ultimately hinge on your personal preferences regarding force, sound, and feel. If you appreciate lighter key presses and a clacky typing experience, the KD200’s 50-gram bottom out force will be ideal for you, especially if you're a fan of a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Its reputation for being the clackiest in the HMX Film switch family means you'll enjoy a lively sound profile, which can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a bit of character in their typing experience. Alternatively, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a 60-gram bottom out force, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 could be your go-to. The silky smoothness of the V3 ensures a seamless typing journey, complemented by its crisp, high-pitched sound that might appeal to those who favor a more refined auditory signature. Additionally, if RGB illumination is important to you, the unique light diffuser in the Lightning Silver V3 will enhance the aesthetics of your setup. In choosing between these switches, consider how each aligns with your typing style and sound preferences to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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