HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Outemu Brown offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The KD200, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keypresses and is renowned as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a seamless and responsive feel without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch is a tactile switch, providing a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy and offer satisfying feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. Each switch has its merits; the KD200 excels in rapid keystrokes and quick response times, while the Outemu Brown fosters a connection between the typist and the keyboard with its tactile feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Brown switches, it is evident that both employ distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic properties. The KD200 utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's relatively soft nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, contributing to a sound that is both rounder and more muted. In contrast, the Outemu Brown adopts a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucency. This choice imparts a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clearer and more resonant, particularly advantageous when RGB lighting is implemented. Therefore, while both switches deliver commendable sound experiences, their top housings produce notably different tonal qualities.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the KD200 and the Outemu Brown switches are made from nylon, showing a strong commonality between the two models. Regardless of the differences presented in their top housings, the nylon bottom housing contributes similarly to the acoustic profile of both switches by producing a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. Since nylon is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing properties, this means that both switches will exhibit a more dulcet and rounded feedback upon key actuation. Thus, while the houses may differ in their contributions to the overall sound profile, users can expect consistency in the bottoming sound experience between the two switches.
Additionally, the combination of materials in the HMX KD200 and Outemu Brown switches illustrates how varying housing materials can interact to produce a unique typing experience. The KD200, with its nylon top and bottom, tends to deliver a more cohesive sound profile that gives precedence to deeper tones. Conversely, the Outemu Brown benefits from its polycarbonate top housing, offering an acoustic contrast when the key is released, while maintaining a warm bottoming sound due to the nylon bottom housing. Thus, even if the two switches are constructed with different top housings, the underlying nylon material in both switches’ bottom housings creates a sense of familiarity and continuity in their performance, enabling users to achieve a similar typing experience despite the divergence in sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience and might engage in extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Brown has a higher actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which gives it a medium-heavy feel that some users prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Thus, for those who favor a lighter touch, the HMX KD200 would be preferable, while users desiring more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes might lean towards the Outemu Brown. Overall, the KD200 is the lighter option, while the Brown switch provides a heavier feedback experience.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the KD200 provides a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially preferable for gamers seeking quick response times. In contrast, the Outemu Brown's 4 mm travel distance offers a more pronounced feel with a hearty depth, which some users may find more comfortable and satisfying for typing. Thus, if you value responsiveness, the KD200 is the better choice, but if you prefer a traditional and more tactile experience, the Outemu Brown would suit you better.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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 produced by the HMX KD200 linear switch is characterized by a pronounced clackiness, making it one of the noisier options available within the HMX Film switch family. This acoustical profile is likely to appeal to users who enjoy an audible response while typing, as it adds an element of engagement to the experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch tends to operate more quietly, though it does provide a subtle tactile feedback, which some users may find satisfying without creating a disruptive noise level. It's important to note that the overall sound of either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, the materials of the keycaps, and assembly quality, but the KD200 will generally produce a louder sound signature compared to the Browns.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 delivers a smooth linear experience, characterized by a lack of tactile bumps throughout its travel. This allows for fluid key presses that many typists and gamers appreciate for rapid actuation. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a tactile bump that provides feedback mid-press, making it easier to recognize actuation without relying solely on sound. This tactile distinction offers a different typing dynamic that can be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced physical sensation when they input keys. Ultimately, the choice here will revolve around personal preference for tactile feedback versus smoothness.
In summary, the HMX KD200 linear switch delivers a loud, clacky sound and a smooth, uninterrupted feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy the auditory feedback of typing. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch provides a quieter operation with a noticeable tactile bump that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches will depend on what you prioritize: the lively sound and smooth action of the KD200 or the subtle feedback and quieter nature of the Brown switches. Both can yield satisfying results, but your preferences will guide you toward the right choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter touch and are drawn to a smoother keystroke without tactile feedback, then the HMX KD200 is a great option, especially if you appreciate a clackier sound when typing. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, minimizing fatigue and allowing for rapid keystrokes, which is particularly beneficial for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile sensation that gives you a clear indication of actuation, the Outemu Brown switch may be the better choice. With a firmer 65-gram bottom-out force and a more subdued sound profile, the Brown offers a balanced response that can enhance typing precision. This makes it ideally suited for users who value feedback without excessive noise, making it a versatile pick for both gaming and work environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your individual typing style, the noise level you’re comfortable with, and the tasks you engage in most frequently.
Mentioned in this article
