HMX KD200 vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Neo White both offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, each catering to different preferences. The HMX KD200, recognized as the clackiest of the HMX Film switch family, delivers an audibly satisfying acoustic feedback that many users find appealing, especially those who enjoy the classic sound of typing. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switches are characterized by their medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance, providing a smoother and more refined typing feel. The addition of a rare Ly stem enhances the Neo White's appeal with its smooth actuation, making each keypress a joy. Both switches have their merits: the KD200 is perfect for those who crave auditory feedback, while the Neo White excels in providing a quieter and more controlled typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Neo White in terms of their housing materials, notable differences arise, particularly with the top housings. The KD200 utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This characteristic not only enhances the acoustic quality of the switch, providing a rounded audio experience, but it also offers a tactile sensation that many typists favor. In contrast, the Neo White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is relatively stiffer. Its composition contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is more pronounced and clear. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it particularly advantageous for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the light can pass through effectively, enhancing visual aesthetics.
Both switches share the same bottom housing material: nylon. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a consistent sound experience, as it similarly absorbs sound and promotes a deeper audio profile when typing. This characteristic ensures that the overall feel and response of both switches will maintain that rich tactile experience, regardless of the differences in their top housings. Consequently, when the keys are bottomed out, users will experience a lush, full-bodied sound in both switches due to the nylon bottom housing, which reduces the impact of harder plastics.
Overall, the distinct combinations of housing materials in the KD200 and the Neo White create unique sound profiles and user experiences. The interplay between the two types of housings allows for a variation in acoustic feedback while still leveraging the qualities of nylon in the bottom housing. Users may appreciate the KD200 for its deep, full sound owing to its all-nylon construction, while those who prioritize brightness and clarity in their keystrokes may lean towards the Neo White for its polycarbonate top. Ultimately, both switch types offer a rich auditory experience, albeit along different sound spectrums, ensuring that users can find a preference that aligns with their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, there are notable distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer to type or game for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Neo White lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience. This heavier feel may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer push when typing. As a result, the KD200 is the lighter option, while the Neo White is heavier. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort and prolonged use might gravitate towards the KD200, whereas those desiring a more robust feedback should consider the Neo White.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter of the two options, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as a shorter travel distance contributes to faster actuation. In contrast, the Neo White's longer travel distance can provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, lending to a potentially more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the KD200 may be the better choice; however, if you enjoy a fuller keystroke, the Neo White could be more preferable.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
The sound profile of the HMX KD200 linear switch is characterized by its clackiness, making it the loudest option in the HMX Film switch family. This pronounced acoustics lend itself to a more expressive typing experience, appealing particularly to those who enjoy feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a neutral sound profile, maintaining moderate sound levels suitable for diverse environments—be it an office or a home setting. This balance makes the Neo White more versatile for users who prefer a quieter or less intrusive typing experience, ensuring that both switches cater to different preferences in auditory feedback.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the KD200 excels at providing a spirited typing experience, although specifics on its sensory feedback and how it compares in smoothness remain unidentified. On the other hand, the Neo White delivers a distinctive typing sensation characterized by its medium weight and slightly reduced travel distance. The unique Ly stem contributes to a notably smooth actuation that enhances the overall comfort while typing, positioning this switch as a favorable choice for users seeking a gentler touch. The Neo White's mild feel resonates with those who might find comfort in a more tempered and forgiving keypress.
In summary, the choice between the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Neo White comes down to user preference regarding sound and feel. The KD200 is ideal for those who appreciate a louder, more pronounced typing sound, while the Neo White caters to users who favor a quieter, more uniform acoustic profile combined with a smoother actuation. Both switches present unique advantages and align with different typing styles, making either a viable option depending on your personal typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards lighter switches and enjoy a sound profile that stands out—thanks to the KD200 being the clackiest of the HMX Film switch family—this option would cater to your needs well. The 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easier on the fingers, perfect for those long typing sessions or gaming marathons, where you might appreciate a switch that audibly and responsively gives feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced switch experience with slightly heftier resistance and a smooth actuation, the Haimu Neo White might be your go-to. Its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, coupled with a neutral sound profile, makes it a versatile choice suitable for both work and leisure. The Neo White's mild feel allows for an approachable typing experience that can be enjoyed by both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you want a louder, lighter clicky feel versus a smoother, balanced typing experience.
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