HMX KD200 vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Olive represent two distinct yet compelling options, each appealing to different preferences among typists and gamers. The KD200, known as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a linear switch experience that prioritizes a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for those who favor rapid key presses and a quiet environment. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch showcases its character through pronounced tactile feedback and a resonant, deep sound, making it a favored choice for users who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. With its all-POM housings and sharpened bottom-out, the Olive adds a satisfying auditory and tactile layer to every key press, which can be particularly gratifying for those who enjoy a tactile and invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the smooth efficiency of the KD200 or the distinct feedback of the Olive, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Olive are distinct yet share some noteworthy similarities that influence the typing experience. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's inherent softness, allowing it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, known for generating a unique sound that is similarly deeper and muted. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to achieve a satisfying auditory experience, with each contributing to a sound profile that leans towards the pleasurable and powerful.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the KD200 and the Olive continue their trend of contrasting yet complementary materials. The KD200 again boasts nylon for its bottom housing, again offering a classic sound experience that emphasizes a duller and rounder auditory profile with a softer feel when bottoming out. The Olive, on the other hand, employs POM for its bottom housing, bringing its unique sound qualities into play. Like the nylon, POM contributes to a sound profile that remains deep and relatively muted, yet it may impact the overall feel and feedback when the switch is fully depressed. Both materials in their respective switches strive to deliver a sound profile that enriches the typing experience while providing tactile feedback, though they do so through different properties.
Ultimately, while the HMX KD200 and Bsun Olive utilize different materials for their switch housings, they accomplish similar auditory outcomes through their design. Each combination of a softer plastic top and a complementary bottom housing operates to create a dulled sound that is pleasing to the ear. As such, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel, thanks to the distinct but similarly effective properties of nylon and POM. Therefore, whether one chooses the KD200 or the Olive, the careful attention to housing materials ensures an enjoyable and immersive typing journey, regardless of the specific material in question.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making the typing experience on both switches feel similarly light in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, they diverge significantly in their bottom out force. The KD200's bottom out force is 50 grams, while the Olive's is 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This distribution means that while both switches provide an easy actuation, the Olive requires a heavier push to bottom out, likely appealing to users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Hence, for those focused on longer typing sessions or gaming, the lighter KD200 may be more suitable, while the Olive caters to those who enjoy a more substantial feel under their fingers. Overall, these differences highlight the choice between light and heavier keystrokes, depending on personal preferences for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Olive measures 3.4 mm. This indicates that the KD200 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Olive's 3.4 mm travel distance, being shorter, might provide a more responsive experience, making it suitable for gamers or those who prioritize speed in their keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances popular in modern keyboards, but the KD200 will give a bit more depth in terms of travel, which may feel more satisfying for those who enjoy tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you favor the greater depth of the KD200 or the quicker response time of the Olive.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 switch stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, providing a bright and resonant auditory experience that resonates strongly with users who prefer a pronounced keystroke sound. This characteristic contributes to a satisfying typing environment, especially when the switch is paired with the right board and keycaps. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch offers a distinctively deep and resonant sound profile, largely attributed to its all-POM housing. This combination creates a richer sound that can be quite pleasant, though it is notably different from the high-pitched clack of the KD200. Both switches can produce an engaging auditory experience, but the KD200 leans more towards a bright clack, while the Olive provides a deeper resonance.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 switch lacks specific descriptors, leaving its tactile qualities somewhat undefined; however, it is known to deliver a smooth linear experience, which appeals to users who appreciate minimal resistance throughout the keypress. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch is characterized by several distinct sensations, such as its medium tactile feel, which offers a prominent bump that is not overwhelming yet provides significant feedback. The Olive switch is invigorating, with a responsive and snappy actuation that makes each keypress feel alive. This sharp tactile feedback enhances the typing experience, making it distinctively engaging. The difference in feel between the two switches will cater to different typing preferences, with the KD200 appealing to those who enjoy a straighter, smooth action and the Olive attracting those who prefer pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch present unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences. The KD200 offers a bright, clackier sound and a smooth linear feel, making it suitable for typists who enjoy a more straightforward action. Meanwhile, the Olive shines with its deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, ideal for those who favor an engaging and immersive typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp clarity of the KD200 or the rich tactility of the Olive, both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard journey in their distinctive ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and desired experience. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a clackier sound profile, the KD200 with its 50-gram actuation force and lively acoustics would be ideal for you, especially for fast-paced typing or gaming where each keystroke needs a quick response without heavy resistance. Conversely, if you appreciate a more substantial tactile experience complemented by a resonant sound, the Olive switch, with its medium-heavy 65-gram force, offers pronounced tactile feedback that provides both an invigorating and snappy feel. This makes it particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a deeper auditory experience while typing and prefer a touch that lets them feel each action distinctly. Ultimately, your specific typing style and sound preferences will guide you toward one switch or the other.
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