HMX KD200 vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often look for unique characteristics that enhance their typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Orange Sea, both categorized as linear switches. The KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a tactile experience that many gamers and typists appreciate for its satisfying auditory feedback, making it a great choice for those seeking a lively sound while typing. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea offers an impeccably smooth typing feel with a neutral sound signature, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and more refined experience without sacrificing performance. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they differ in their auditory and tactile sensations, leading to distinct user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Orange Sea, a notable distinction arises in the choice of materials for the top housing. The KD200 utilizes a nylon top housing, which is praised for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Its relatively soft plastic construction contributes to a rounded resonance, creating a typing experience that feels warm and muted. In contrast, the Orange Sea is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, celebrated for its stiffer composition that results in a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its visual appeal, particularly for setups featuring RGB lighting, thus providing a different aesthetic experience alongside its functional characteristics.

Interestingly, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, as both the KD200 and the Orange Sea employ nylon. This uniformity means that while the top housings introduce distinct auditory experiences—warmth versus clarity—the deeper, fuller sound characteristic of nylon remains consistent in both cases when keys are bottomed out. The nylon bottom enhances the overall typing experience by dampening sound and creating a tactile rhythm that is appreciated by many users. This shared material results in a convergence of typographical experience, ensuring that regardless of the top housing's distinct properties, users will encounter a similar sensation and auditory response at the bottom.

Ultimately, the combination of differing and similar materials creates a nuanced typing experience for both switches. The disparity between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing results in distinct sound profiles when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing ensures that the feel remains cohesive in both cases during the bottom-out phase. Users drawn to the HMX KD200 may appreciate the softness and warmth of nylon, while those preferring the Haimu Orange Sea might enjoy the sharp clarity of polycarbonate during key presses. In essence, the varying top housing materials influence the overall auditory experience while allowing for a unifying tactile sensation through their shared nylon bottom component, enabling users to achieve satisfying results regardless of preference.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, distinct differences can be observed. The KD200 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 37 grams of the Orange Sea, making the latter the lighter option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the KD200 is 50 grams, while the Orange Sea features a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users who prioritize a lighter feel during typing or gaming sessions may find the Haimu Orange Sea more appealing, as it requires less force to both actuate and bottom out. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the HMX KD200 due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, if one were to seek a balance between lighter and heavier switches, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces of these switches will cater to varied preferences in typing dynamics.

Travel distance

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch have slightly different travel distances, with the KD200 measuring 3.5 mm and the Orange Sea at 3.6 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, while the Orange Sea has a longer travel distance. Despite the mere 0.1 mm difference, this can influence the feel of the switch when pressed. For gamers who appreciate quicker response times, the KD200's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, offering a snappier experience. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced key press might lean toward the Orange Sea, which provides a deeper feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches cater to different preferences, highlighting the importance of personal comfort in selecting the right switch for typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which suggests a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to many other switches. This sound characteristic may appeal to those who enjoy a more engaging acoustic experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch boasts an impeccably smooth type feel and a neutral sound signature. This means the Orange Sea is likely to provide a quieter and more subdued auditory experience, making it suitable for environments where noise might be a concern, or for users who prefer a more understated sound while typing.

When it comes to feel, the KD200 is recognized for its specific tactile properties that contribute to its distinct typing experience. Although the exact nature of this feel wasn't detailed, its classification as clacky suggests it may have some feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea is noted for its smoothness, which indicates that it provides a very fluid and seamless typing experience with little resistance or additional tactile feedback. This smoothness can make for a more enjoyable and less tiring typing experience, especially during long sessions.

In summary, while both the HMX KD200 and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches cater to different preferences, they present unique attributes that could appeal to different types of users. The KD200 offers a clacky sound that may engage those who love auditory feedback, while the Orange Sea offers a smooth and neutral experience, perfect for users looking for minimal sound disruption. Ultimately, choosing between them will boil down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, with each switch providing a distinct experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a more tactile feedback and don't mind a slightly noisier typing experience, the KD200 might be your go-to option, especially if you enjoy clackier keystrokes that provide an engaging sound profile. However, if you prioritize a super smooth typing feel combined with a neutral sound signature, the Orange Sea switches would likely serve you better. These switches are perfect for both typing and gaming, allowing for a quieter environment while still delivering excellent performance. In the end, consider how each switch aligns with your intended usage—whether it's for gaming, typing for long hours, or enjoying a balance of both. Your final decision should reflect your comfort with sound and tactile response, ensuring you have a satisfying keyboard experience tailored to your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more