HMX KD200 vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and the KTT Orange offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The KD200, known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivers a unique auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more tactile sound while maintaining smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are distinguished by their bouncy feel, courtesy of a 22mm long spring, and a frictionless typing experience thanks to their specially designed polycarbonate and nylon housing. With a low-pitched sound profile and excellent factory lubrication, the KTT Orange is ideal for users seeking a quieter, yet responsive, feel during long typing sessions. Both switches have their own compelling attributes, making them suitable for various preferences and uses; 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
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the KTT Orange switches present a distinct contrast that influences their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The KD200 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper, richer sound profile that is full-bodied and resonates well without excessive sharpness. Nylon’s softer properties help absorb sound, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a sharper, more resonant sound that tends to be crisper and higher in pitch. This characteristic leads to a more pronounced auditory feedback, making it suitable for users who favor a sharp click or snap when typing.
While both switches utilize different materials, the configuration of each switch's housing affects the overall sound experience when typing. In the KD200, the nylon construction provides a cohesive feel and sound profile that is consistent throughout the key press. Typing on these switches will elicit softer impacts that create a more muted sound, which can be preferable for users seeking a quieter workstation. Conversely, the KTT Orange’s polycarbonate housing results in a sound that is notably clearer as you release the key, attributed to its sharper responsiveness. This difference becomes particularly apparent when considering the acoustic interactions produced during key presses, as the KD200 promotes a more understated output compared to the pronounced sounds of the KTT Orange.
Despite the differences in material properties, users can derive similar overall experiences from the KD200 and KTT Orange switches based on how each switch has been designed. The KD200's softer nylon housing absorbs sound effectively—ideal for a quieter typing environment—while the Orange's polycarbonate enhances clarity and sharpness, perfect for a more vibrant typing experience. However, if users prefer one aspect over the other, they can still achieve a satisfying typing experience based on personal preferences for sound profiles, as the trade-offs in materials reflect broader typist needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will arm typists with switches best suited to their auditory and tactile preferences while embodying distinct characteristics that foil one another in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we find notable differences in their specifications. The KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Orange has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. While both switches provide a tactile experience, the KD200's lighter resistance may appeal to users who prefer ease during extended use. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange offers a bit more resistance, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Overall, if one seeks a lighter typing experience, the KD200 is the superior choice, while the KTT Orange serves those who prefer a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
Both the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in terms of how far each switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This equal travel distance means that users can expect similar tactile experiences and performance from both switches, allowing for a consistent typing feel across different keyboards that utilize these switches. Therefore, if you're seeking uniformity in key response, you will achieve comparable results with either switch, as they both provide the same travel distance.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 its family, suggesting a more pronounced and sharper auditory feedback with each press—likely making it more engaging for users who enjoy a palpable sound while typing. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, which offers a gentler, deeper tone compared to higher-pitched alternatives. This low-pitched quality is often perceived as more soothing and less intrusive, possibly making it better suited for quiet environments where typing noise could be disruptive.
In terms of feel, the KD200's specific tactile characteristics aren't detailed, but the KTT Orange is noted for its bouncy and frictionless nature. The bouncy feel provides a delightful spring-like feedback that energizes each keystroke, adding a lively quality to the typing experience. Furthermore, the frictionless travel of the Orange switch ensures an exceptionally smooth and effortless keypress, which minimizes any resistance and enhances the overall fluidity of typing. This combination can make for a highly enjoyable and responsive typing experience compared to the less-defined feel of the KD200.
In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 leans into a clackier auditory experience, the KTT Orange switch offers a mellower sound alongside a bouncy and frictionless feel. Both switches may appeal to different user preferences. If sound is your priority, the KD200 will provide a more dynamic auditory feedback, whereas if you're seeking smoothness and responsiveness in feel, the KTT Orange switches are likely to deliver a superior typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, one switch might be more appealing than the other, but both can provide satisfying results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, your preferences in sound, feedback, and typing experience will play a crucial role. If you appreciate a lighter touch and enjoy a clackier, more pronounced sound profile that adds a unique auditory element to your typing experience, then the KD200 might be the better choice for you. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it ideal for fast, effortless keystrokes, which is especially beneficial for gaming or intense typing sessions where speed is paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bouncy and lively feel combined with an exceptionally smooth and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch would likely suit you better. The 53-gram bottom-out force provides a bit more resistance, which many find satisfying, while the low-pitched sound coupled with its excellent factory lubrication enhances sound dampening, making it less distracting in shared environments. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you seek a lighter, sound-enhanced experience (KD200) or a more textured, smooth typing journey (KTT Orange).
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