HMX KD200 vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX KD200 and KTT Mint offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides an audibly satisfying typing experience that some users may find invigorating for both work and gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth operation, offering users a delightful tactile journey thanks to its long pole stem which produces a poppy thockiness with every keystroke, alongside its light and fleeting typing sensation. While the KD200 appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback and a more pronounced clack, the Mint is perfect for users who prefer a more subdued yet polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the KTT Mint, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon’s softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is inherently stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's clarity allows for enhanced resonance, making it particularly favorable for users who enjoy RGB lighting due to its translucency. Consequently, while both switches aim to deliver quality typing experiences, their audio characteristics diverge significantly based on the materials used for their top housings.
On the other hand, both the KD200 and Mint utilize nylon for their bottom housings, thus creating a point of similarity in their overall sound profile. As with the KD200, the Mint's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, producing that deeper and fuller auditory signature. The shared use of nylon in this aspect means that both switches may offer a similar tactile and auditory sensation when it comes to bottoming out. The softer material dampens the sound effectively, lending a cohesive, muted quality, which enhances typing comfort. Despite the differences in their top housings, the comparable bottom housings contribute to a consistency in fundamental tactile experiences across both switches.
Ultimately, the interplay of the top and bottom housings in both the KD200 and KTT Mint allows for a nuanced understanding of their overall performance. In terms of tactile feedback and sound profile, the KD200 will likely provide a fuller sound experience primarily due to the nylon top housing, while the Mint will offer sharper highs and brighter sound due to its use of polycarbonate at the top. However, the nylon bottom housing calms both switches’ auditory output, resulting in a solid foundation of deeper sound that can mitigate some of the differences caused by their top materials. Therefore, users looking for a rich typing experience with a softer sound may feel satisfied with either switch, depending on their preference for the auditory qualities elicited by the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both share an identical actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience the same level of resistance required to register a keystroke with either switch. However, the bottom-out forces differ, with the KD200 at 50 grams and the Mint slightly heavier at 53 grams. This makes the KD200 a lighter option in terms of overall feel, as it requires less force when fully pressed down compared to the Mint. For those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the KD200 would be the more suitable choice. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the KTT Mint due to its heavier bottom-out force. In summary, while both switches offer the same actuation force, they differ in their bottom-out forces, positioning the KD200 as the lighter choice and the KTT Mint as somewhat heavier.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the KD200 measuring at 3.5 mm and the Mint at 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, appealing to those who favor a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quick key activation. In contrast, the Mint, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional and hearty depth that some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Thus, if you prioritize quick response times, the KD200 may be the better choice, while the Mint caters to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. Overall, the difference between these two switches highlights the balance between the desire for speed and the preference for tactile feedback in keyboard design.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 switch stands out as the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch family, likely producing a bright and pronounced auditory profile that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound experience while typing. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound. The low-pitched quality creates a mellow and bass-heavy tone, making it less jarring than the more overt clackiness of the KD200. This combination makes the Mint suitable for a wide range of users, as its sound profile is balanced and likely to be more accommodating in both work and casual environments. However, keep in mind that the ultimate sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap materials.
Regarding the feel, the KD200 switch is known for its distinctiveness, although specific tactile feedback has not been explicitly described. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is recognized for offering a mild typing experience alongside a polished feel. The mildness of the Mint means that it provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation, ensuring that users, regardless of their skill level, can appreciate its qualities. The polished finish enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, leading to reduced friction and a fluid typing experience that many users seek in a linear switch.
In conclusion, if you are considering the HMX KD200 and the KTT Mint, each switch offers unique sound and feel characteristics tailored to different preferences. The KD200 is for those who relish a more pronounced auditory experience, while the Mint caters to those seeking a smooth and refined feel in a versatile sound profile. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize sound drama or typing fluidity, and you can expect to find satisfaction in either choice, given the distinct qualities they each bring to the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 and the KTT Mint linear switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy a clackier sound profile, the KD200 might be your ideal pick, especially if you like the way its noise adds character to your typing experience. The 50-gram bottom-out force makes this switch a great option for quick typists or gamers who appreciate fast-paced key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued, smooth, and polished typing experience that strikes a balance between sound and feel, the KTT Mint is an excellent choice. With a slightly higher actuation force of 53 grams, it provides a mild and refined typing experience that is versatile enough for both work and leisure. In essence, choose the KD200 for an expressive, clack-heavy feel in situations where you want to stand out, while the KTT Mint is perfect for a pleasant, everyday typing experience that caters to a wide variety of uses.
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