HMX KD200 vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and Cherry Nixie present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience. The KD200, known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a distinct auditory feedback that can enhance your typing pleasure, especially for those who enjoy a lively and engaging sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switches are revered classics that provide a substantial heft and a textured typing experience, giving typists a sense of nostalgia while embracing modern innovations from the recent MX2A update. While both switches are categorized as linear, they cater to different preferences: the KD200 brings a more pronounced sound, while the Nixie focuses on a thocky, low-pitched response that many users find satisfying. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Cherry Nixie switches exhibit a noteworthy similarity, as both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall auditory and tactile experience of typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, offers enhanced sound absorption characteristics compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Users of both the KD200 and Cherry Nixie will likely notice that the typing experience is smooth and satisfying, with an emphasis on producing a more rounded and duller sound that many typists find appealing.
While the housing materials are identical, the overall impact of each housing varies within the switches. The bottom housing, irrespective of whether it belongs to the KD200 or the Nixie, is responsible for influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. This means that both switches, despite having the same nylon construction, might produce slightly different feelings upon bottoming out due to the design of the physical switch mechanism. Conversely, the top housing engages more significantly in the sound perception when releasing a key. This creates a comprehensive interaction between the two housings that, even with the same material, may yield nuanced differences in user experience across both switch models.
In summary, the use of nylon across both the HMX KD200 and Cherry Nixie clearly establishes a foundation for similar acoustic outcomes and tactile feedback for users. The shared material enhances typing experience by dimming the sound, producing a sophisticated auditory environment that many enthusiasts seek. Nevertheless, nuances in performance from each switch may arise due to differences in design and mechanics, meaning that while users can expect a comparable sound profile and feel, individual nuances will still dictate the overall experience when using these switches.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch exhibit significant differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience over long sessions, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Nixie switch has a notably heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback during use. Consequently, the lighter KD200 allows for quicker, less tiring typing with less pressure needed to actuate, while the heavier Nixie provides a firmer push that may be favored by users seeking more resistance and a pronounced keystroke feeling. This fundamental contrast between their weights makes the KD200 better suited for prolonged use, while the Nixie's heavier profile may cater to individuals who desire a sturdier typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, the KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Nixie extends a bit further with a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, potentially appealing to those who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Nixie’s longer 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel, which might be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper and heartier keystroke experience. As such, while selecting between these two switches, users will find distinct advantages based on their 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 linear switch is well-known for its clacky characteristics, making it stand out as the loudest option within the HMX Film switch family. This dynamic provides a distinctive auditory experience that some typists may find appealing, especially in a lively gaming or typing environment. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, which features a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory feedback when pressed. This switch produces a low-pitched tone, contributing to an overall bass-heavy and mellow acoustic experience. While both switches cater to different sonic preferences, the KD200 offers a more energetic clack, while the Nixie provides a more subdued, satisfying thock.
When it comes to feel, the HMX KD200 switch does not have a widely discussed feel characteristic, so its tactile feedback remains somewhat unknown. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, meaning it offers noticeable friction during key presses. This texture can create a more engaging typing experience for some users who appreciate the contrast between smooth actuation and tactile feedback. The lack of specific feel details for the KD200 makes it challenging to make a direct comparison, but it’s clear that the Nixie switch provides a unique tactile sensation that some may find preferable.
In summary, the HMX KD200 switch offers a clacky sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Cherry Nixie switch excels in providing a deeper thocky sound with a textured feel that engages users differently. Both switches evoke unique experiences, with the KD200 providing a lively auditory excitement and the Nixie giving a satisfying, friction-based feedback. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on your personal preference for sound and texture in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 and the Cherry Nixie linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter feel with a clackier sound profile, the KD200 might be your go-to option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for rapid keystrokes with less effort, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing when you want something that feels a bit more responsive. The clackiness adds a fun element if you enjoy the auditory feedback during your sessions. However, if you lean towards a more substantial and textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie should be your choice. With an 80-gram bottom-out force, these switches provide a heavier, more deliberate feel that many typists appreciate, especially for long writing sessions or tasks that demand precision. The deeper, thocky sound paired with its textured feedback offers a satisfying engagement with each keystroke. In short, reflect on what aspects matter most to you—lightness and auditory feedback with the KD200, or depth and textured engagement with the Nixie—as you select the switch that best aligns with your mechanical keyboard journey.
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