HMX KD200 vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, particularly regarding the tactile sensations they provide. The HMX KD200 linear switch is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, making it a great option for those who favor a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience; this can be particularly appealing for gamers and typists who require rapid input without the hindrance of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a distinctively tactile experience, characterized by a sharp downstroke bump and an even more pronounced upstroke sensation, which is ideal for users who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. The combination of their unique PBT housing and the medium-heavy feel provides a premium typing experience that is both snappy and satisfying. While the KD200 fulfills the desire for a fluid typing style, the Moyu Blacks cater to those seeking a more engaging and impactful interaction with their keyboard. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches provide a fascinating study in contrasts and similarities. The KD200 utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This softness contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, allowing for a more muted auditory feedback upon keypress, which many users may find aesthetically pleasing, especially in quieter environments. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches feature polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) for both the top and bottom housings. While PBT is known for its durability, its sound profile is characterized as neutral—not notably crisp or dull—resulting in a more balanced auditory experience when typing.
The distinct sound profiles brought by each housing material highlight how they influence the overall typing feel and experience. The KD200, with its nylon compositions, allows for a fuller auditory feedback upon bottom-out, making the moment of keypresses sound well-rounded and rich. Conversely, the Everglide Moyu's PBT doesn't resonate in the same deep manner; instead, it delivers a neutrality that can appeal to users who prefer less pronounced sound feedback. This means that while the KD200 may seem more immersive during usage, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a sound experience that is arguably more versatile across different environments and typing styles.
Ultimately, despite their differences, both switch types can lead to satisfying results, depending on user preferences. For instance, if a typist seeks a fuller auditory experience, the KD200 would likely be the preferred choice; its nylon materials foster a sound signature that can enhance the tactile experience. However, if one values a consistent and neutral feedback, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) would excel in delivering that experience. The impact of the different material types on sound and feel underscores how each set of switches caters to specific preferences, yet both designs can satisfy a typist’s needs effectively.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 presents a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more relaxed typing experience, ideal for extended periods of use in work or gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer push-back while typing. This distinction means that the KD200 will generally feel lighter and easier to press compared to the Moyu Black, which can be better for users who prefer a tactile feedback that reinforces each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference for typing feel—lighter versus more substantial pushes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, we see a notable difference between the two. The KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option that caters well to those who desire quick response times, especially popular among gamers. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which might be more appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced, hearty feel when typing. This difference in travel distance suggests that while both switches can deliver satisfying experiences, the KD200 may offer a more responsive feel, while the Moyu Black provides a deeper tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences 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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 linear switch stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, promising a higher-pitched auditory experience. Although the specifics of the KD200's sound are not thoroughly detailed, it implies a lively and perhaps sharper character. In contrast, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience when typing. The combination of a strong downstroke takes advantage of the tactile design while delivering a high-pitched sound that resonates distinctly. Thus, while both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, the KD200 leans toward a clackier profile, whereas the Moyu Black provides cleaner resonance.
In terms of feel, the KD200 switch lacks specific characteristics outlined, leaving its tactile feedback somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is known for its sharp tactile feel, featuring a prominent downstroke bump that is both snappy and impactful. Its hypertactile sensation is marked by a strong upstroke bump that accentuates each keypress, providing a tangible and engaging typing experience. The Moyu Black switches also fall into the "accented" category, delivering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making them approachable for various users. Given this, we see a clear distinction in feel, with the Moyu Black providing more defined tactile feedback compared to the uncertain characteristics of the KD200.
In conclusion, while both the HMX KD200 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches promise unique experiences, they cater to different preferences. The KD200 is celebrated for its clacky sound but lacks detailed information on its tactile feel, leaving some aspects subjective. In contrast, the Moyu Black excels in both sound and feel, delivering a sharp auditory experience paired with pronounced tactility. This makes the Moyu Black a stronger choice for those seeking definitive feedback and distinctive auditory sensations, while the KD200 may appeal to users prioritizing sound characteristics. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value sound or tactile feedback more in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feedback and sound. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a clackier auditory experience, the KD200 is an excellent option, especially for those who enjoy a smooth and swift keystroke without the interruption of noticeable tactile bumps. This switch is ideal for gamers or typists who prioritize speed and minimal resistance, providing a satisfying clicking sound that can energize your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a richer tactile experience with a firmer feel, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) could be your go-to choice. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and sharp tactile feedback, this switch delivers a pronounced sense of engagement with each keypress, making it perfect for those who value both a tactile bump and a resonant sound profile while typing. Each switch caters to a different typing style, so consider what aspects enhance your comfort and satisfaction while typing or gaming, and choose accordingly.
Mentioned in this article
