HMX KD200 vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, two popular choices often stand out: the HMX KD200 and the PH Studio Milk Tea, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, is known for its pronounced, resonant sound, offering a tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch by BSUN offers a unique auditory experience with its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, delivering a gentle balance that makes for a more subdued typing environment. The use of Ly material in the Milk Tea’s stem enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, catering to those who prefer a quieter, more polished experience without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the KD200's lively clackiness and the Milk Tea's refined subtlety will depend on your personal typing preferences. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and PH Studio Milk Tea switches incorporate distinct housing materials that influence their sound profiles and typing experiences. The KD200 features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, described as a classic material that absorbs sound effectively due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a muted and rounded tone, enhancing the overall typing experience with a pleasant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch employs POM for both its top and bottom housings, which also delivers a deep sound profile but is noted for its unique and pleasing acoustics. While both materials contribute to a rich auditory experience, the subtleties in their properties may lead to slightly different sound qualities that users might notice during use.
Despite the differences in material between the KD200's nylon and the Milk Tea's POM, both switches yield a sound profile that leans toward the deeper side, with a muted character that seems to resonate well with typists who prefer softer auditory feedback. The KD200's nylon housings may exhibit a more pronounced dullness in sound, providing a fuller experience particularly when the switch is bottomed out. On the other hand, the POM housings of the Milk Tea may lend a uniquely pleasing and slightly more distinct sound due to their different compositional properties, suggesting that while the results are similar in essence, the nuances in typing feedback could be perceived differently by the user.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings in both switches also plays a crucial role in shaping the tactile experience. For the KD200, the nylon bottom housing's softer characteristics means that users may feel a smoother landing upon keystrokes, impacting the overall feel and sound when the key is released. Conversely, the POM bottom of the Milk Tea switch may present a different tactile sensation, though still contributing to the deeper and muted sound profile when actuated. Ultimately, while the housing materials differ, both switches are designed to provide satisfying auditory and tactile results, and users may find that they can enjoy a similar typing experience, albeit with distinctive characteristics that set each switch apart.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both of which are categorized as light switches, we observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Milk Tea switch offers a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This indicates that the Milk Tea switch requires less effort to initiate a keystroke and also bottoms out with less pressure compared to the KD200. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons may gravitate towards the Milk Tea, as its reduced forces contribute to a more effortless experience. In contrast, those who appreciate a slightly more substantial typing feedback might find the KD200 more appealing. Ultimately, while both switches deliver a light typing feel, the Milk Tea stands out as the lighter option, while the KD200, though still classified as light, has higher force requirements at both actuation and bottom out stages.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, we see a slight difference in their measurements. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Tea offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that for users seeking a more responsive feel, the KD200 is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses essential for gaming or fast typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress experience. Overall, while both switches have their merits, the KD200 is the shorter option, whereas the Milk Tea is the longer one, catering to different user preferences for key travel sensitivity.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 switch is characterized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting it produces a sharp, crisp auditory experience that can be quite loud and lively. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch delivers a unique combination of high-pitched clarity and a muted essence. This presents a gentler auditory experience, striking a balance between being present yet subtle. While both switches offer a distinct acoustic signature, users who enjoy a more boisterous typing sound may gravitate towards the KD200, whereas those preferring a nuanced and refined auditory sensation might find the Milk Tea more appealing.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 lacks a specific description, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is praised for its polished and silky characteristics, which contribute to a very smooth and effortless typing experience. This polished finish minimizes friction, allowing for smooth key travel and enhancing overall typing comfort. The stark contrast in the tactile experience emphasizes a potential divergence in user preference: those who prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined feel may favor the Milk Tea, while the sensation from the KD200 remains unknown and is thus open to interpretation.
In conclusion, the HMX KD200 and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches both offer unique qualities tailored to different preferences. While the KD200 boasts a loud and clacky sound, the Milk Tea presents a subtler, more refined auditory experience. The lack of detailed tactile information for the KD200 leaves an element of mystery regarding its feel, while the Milk Tea clearly excels in delivering a polished and silky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether a user prioritizes a vibrant auditory feedback or a smooth and effortless feel during use.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback and enjoy a lively typing sound, the KD200, with its clacky and resonant character, might be the superior choice for you. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams can also provide a more tactile experience, which may appeal to typists who favor a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother, more subdued auditory experience and seek a refined typing surface, the Milk Tea switch stands out. Featuring a lighter bottom-out force of only 43.5 grams and a polished, silky finish, this switch is designed for effortless keystrokes and a balanced sound profile that’s both high-pitched yet muted—ideal for those who favor a gentle, less intrusive typing experience. In closing, your decision should reflect your desired balance of sound and feel; go for the KD200 if you want something lively and engaging, or opt for the Milk Tea for an elegant and smooth typing sensation.
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