HMX KD200 vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver present distinct options that cater to different user preferences. The KD200, celebrated for its pronounced acoustic feedback, stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy tactile satisfaction and an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for speed, boasting a full-height design that optimizes quick actuation for gamers seeking the pinnacle of performance. Its linear action and low spring resistance enable instant triggering, making every millisecond count during intense gaming sessions. While both switches offer linear characteristics that promote smooth keystrokes, their unique attributes appeal to different user needs—whether one prefers the auditory feedback of the KD200 or the rapid response of the Speed Silver. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver keyboards both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, which enables them to produce a similar auditory experience during typing. Nylon is recognized in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to the material's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounded and muffled sound when keys are pressed or released. Consequently, when using either the KD200 or MX Speed Silver, users can expect an acoustic environment that feels warm and inviting, giving an overall satisfying tactile feedback.
While both switches share identical housing materials, one crucial aspect to consider is how these housings contribute to the final typing feel and sound. In the case of the KD200, the nylon top housing influences the sound produced during the release of the key, while the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound when the key is pressed. The same principle applies to the Cherry MX Speed Silver, meaning that despite their similarities in material, the acoustic qualities experienced can vary slightly due to the design specifics of each switch. Thus, while both keyboards are likely to produce a similar sound profile derivatively tied to their nylon construction, slight nuances might be observed based on how each manufacturer has optimized their respective designs.
In practice, the shared nylon material in both the HMX KD200 and Cherry MX Speed Silver translates into a comparable overall experience in terms of auditory feedback and tactile sensation. The positive attributes that come with nylon — including sound dampening and a soft touch — enhance user satisfaction on both keyboards. However, the distinct manufacturing characteristics and design choices between the two models could impart unique nuances to each switch, allowing for individual preference to dictate which switch a user may ultimately favor. Hence, while results in sound can be similar due to common materials, each model's construction may still yield differential experiences when engaged in regular typing scenarios.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit similarities in their actuation force, both requiring 45 grams of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This commonality suggests that users can expect a similar responsiveness when typing or gaming, appealing to those who favor a lighter touch. However, a key difference lies in their bottom out forces: the KD200 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unavailable, leaving uncertainty regarding its performance in this regard. Overall, the KD200 can be considered the heavier switch due to its higher bottom out force, which may appeal more to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the identical actuation forces imply that both options could be suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience, particularly during extended use.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX KD200 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the KD200 the longer option between the two. The difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it could impact the typing experience, particularly for those who find that the additional travel provides a more substantial feel. Gamers generally prefer shorter travel distances, which makes the MX Speed Silver a favorable choice for quicker response times. However, those who appreciate the sense of depth and feedback in their keystrokes might lean towards the KD200 for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the KD200 offering a more traditional, deeper experience, while the MX Speed Silver caters to a desire for speed and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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
The HMX KD200 is recognized for its distinctive sound profile, being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which suggests that it produces a sharp, pronounced acoustic feedback that can be quite engaging during use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver features a thocky and low-pitched sound, known for its deep, rich quality that many find satisfying. This thocky sound creates a bass-heavy experience when typing, akin to a soft thud, making it distinctly different from the more pronounced clacking of the KD200. While both switches may provide an enjoyable auditory experience, the choice between the two might depend on whether you prefer a more clack-filled ambiance or a deeper, softer thock during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 lacks specific descriptors, leaving its tactile sensation more ambiguous. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is characterized by a textured, scratchy feel, providing noticeable friction with each keystroke. This texture can evoke varied responses from users; some may enjoy the feedback of a scratchy switch, while others might seek a smoother typing experience. As a result, the KD200’s unknown feel could lead to a preference for either smooth or textured sensations, depending on individual taste, which is clearly defined for the MX Speed Silver.
In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KD200’s clackiness paves the way for an engaging auditory experience, while the MX Speed Silver’s thocky and low-pitched tones provide a mellow, satisfying sound profile. Feel-wise, the KD200 remains uncertain, whereas the textured nature of the MX Speed Silver can impact the typing experience distinctly. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will hinge on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as each switch presents a unique take on linear key action that can enhance your typing or gaming experience in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch will greatly depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you favor a more tactile experience and enjoy a distinctive sound profile, the KD200’s clackiness might be to your liking. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams can make typing feel effortless, which is especially enjoyable for those who engage in lengthy typing sessions and appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback. Conversely, if you are primarily a gamer looking for rapid response times, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed for ultimate speed, featuring a low spring resistance that allows for near-instant actuation. This switch’s thocky, low-pitched sound can provide a satisfying auditory cue without being overly distracting during intense gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a more audible, textured experience with the KD200 or the rapid, smooth actuation of the Speed Silver for gaming.
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