HMX KD200 vs. Gateron Mars

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Gateron Mars both stand out as compelling choices for enthusiasts of linear switches. The KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a distinct auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate for its engaging sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Mars is celebrated for its innovative design, featuring a POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to its smooth keystrokes and durability. While the KD200 may attract those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience, the Gateron Mars appeals to users seeking a silky-smooth typing sensation combined with longevity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Gateron Mars Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX KD200 and Gateron Mars switches both feature a nylon top housing, which contributes to a similar sound profile when typing. The nylon material, recognized as a classic in switch construction, offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. This quality allows the nylon to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Both switches will therefore produce comparable acoustic results, making them appealing choices for typists who prioritize a plush soundscape in their mechanical keyboard experience.

However, the contrasts between the two switches become evident in their bottom housing materials. The KD200 uses nylon for its bottom housing as well, echoing the characteristics of the top housing and maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Mars utilizes POM for its bottom housing. POM is known for producing a unique and exceptionally pleasing sound profile, contributing to a deeper and more muted auditory experience. As a result, while both switches have auditory similarities in the top housing, the KD200's cohesive nylon construction offers a unified sound, whereas the Mars's POM bottom housing introduces distinct tonal qualities that are less pronounced in its counterpart.

In terms of tactile feedback and acoustic performance, the differences will affect how each switch feels and sounds during operation. The KD200, with its identical nylon composition both top and bottom, results in a consistent tactile feedback experience and sound profile across the entire stroke of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars’s nylon top and POM bottom combination means that its sound and feel will be more nuanced; the nylon softens the release sound while the POM affects the bottoming-out experience. Thus, while users can expect a pleasing typing experience from both switches, the nuances in materials lead to a distinct character in each switch’s overall sound and feel during operation.

Weight

When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally lightweight in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests users can expect a similar typing experience focused on comfort, especially beneficial for long typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the KD200's bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to press the key all the way down compared to the actuation point. The bottom out force for the Mars switch is currently unknown, leaving a gap in understanding its full resistance during use. As a result, while the KD200 is slightly heavier when bottoming out, the actual feel in terms of actuation remains the same for both, appealing to users seeking a lighter typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mars has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, appealing to those who favor faster key presses and a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Mars switch's greater travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for users who appreciate a bit more resistance and feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: whether one is looking for speed or a more substantial key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 is recognized for its pronounced clackiness, solidifying its reputation as the loudest member of the HMX Film switch family. This characteristic can make it particularly satisfying for typists who enjoy auditory feedback, but it may be less suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switches incorporate a unique design with their POK stem, contributing to a sound profile that is not as widely characterized but known to produce a pleasant and balanced auditory experience. Although both sound profiles are distinct, your overall experience will also depend on factors like your keyboard's build and the keycaps you choose.

In terms of feel, the KD200 is celebrated for a smooth and responsive keystroke, offering an enjoyable typing experience that many users appreciate. Its design likely emphasizes a great deal of tactility, allowing typists to easily recognize actuation. Conversely, the Gateron Mars linear switches offer their own unique touch, although specific descriptors for the feel aren’t readily provided. Nonetheless, the blend of Nylon and POM in their construction suggests a focus on durability and consistency, potentially offering a smooth keypress that is characteristic of high-quality linear switches.

In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 and Gateron Mars switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm. The KD200 shines with its clackiness and smooth feel, making it appealing for those who love auditory feedback and a responsive typing experience. The Mars switches, with their innovative design and solid build materials, promise a balanced type feel, likely excelling in durability and performance. Given the subjective nature of sound and feel, users might find satisfaction with either switch, depending on their personal preferences and the overall keyboard configuration they choose.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and tactile feedback. If you enjoy a clackier typing experience and prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams that makes typing feel effortless, the HMX KD200 is the ideal choice for you. Its distinctive sound profile and responsiveness can enhance your typing enjoyment, making it particularly appealing for casual typing or gaming sessions where quick responses are beneficial. On the other hand, if you prioritize a unique design and a smoother action that Gateron Mars switches provide, then you may find them more suited to your needs. Although the Mars doesn't have specific metrics available regarding its bottom-out force, its construction using a blend of Nylon and POM materials suggests a premium feel and an innovative design that could appeal to those looking for something different in their mechanical keyboards. Overall, choosing between these switches boils down to whether you value sound and responsiveness (KD200) or a smooth and distinct typing experience (Mars).

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more