HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Cream Yellow

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Cream Yellow present intriguing choices, each catering to different typing preferences. The KD200, renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find appealing for its enhanced communication of keystrokes. As a linear switch, it offers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps, making it ideal for rapid key presses and a more streamlined typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow, while lesser-known, is categorized as a tactile switch, delivering a noticeable bump at the actuation point. This tactile feedback can provide users with enhanced precision during typing sessions, which many find beneficial for critical tasks such as coding or writing. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on whether you prefer the audible and linear feel of the KD200 or the tactile responsiveness of the Cream Yellow. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX KD200 and Outemu Cream Yellow switches both utilize nylon for their housing materials, which significantly contributes to their acoustic characteristics. Nylon is well-regarded in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer and more absorptive nature compared to harder plastics. In both cases, the nylon top housing allows for a rounder, duller sound when typing, making these switches ideal for users who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience. This similarity in materials results in comparable acoustic performances between the two switches.

The bottom housings of the HMX KD200 and Outemu Cream Yellow switches also share the same nylon composition, reinforcing the sound-dampening qualities inherent to both designs. When pressed, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, and the soft nylon material contributes to a plush and pleasant tactile feedback. The use of nylon in both switches means that users can expect similar tactile and sound experiences, where the softer material helps mitigate the harshness often associated with bottoming out, thereby enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions.

While the use of nylon for both top and bottom housings in the KD200 and Cream Yellow switches leads to largely indistinguishable acoustic qualities, it is worth noting that their overall performance can be nuanced by other factors, such as switch design, stem compatibility, or spring characteristics. However, given that both utilize nylon, any resultant differences in sound profile or feel will likely be minimal, as the shared material foundation creates a consistent baseline for performance. Thus, users of either switch can anticipate similar traits, making for an experience that should largely meet the expectations of those seeking muted and enjoyable typing sounds.

Weight

When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity allows for comparable typing experiences in terms of actuation responsiveness and ease of use. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the KD200 at 50 grams and the Cream Yellow at 60 grams. This means that while both switches provide a light actuation feel, the KD200 is lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, like those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cream Yellow, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial feel, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push sensation during use. Therefore, while both switches share the same actuation force, the KD200 offers a lighter overall experience, while the Cream Yellow provides a heavier, more tactile typing feel.

Travel distance

The HMX KD200 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This distinction means that the KD200 provides a bit more depth when pressed, making it potentially appealing for those who prefer a more cushioned feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may offer quicker responsiveness, catering to gamers who favor faster actuation times. If responsiveness is your main priority, the Cream Yellow is the better choice; however, if you appreciate a more substantial keystroke, the KD200 would likely provide a more satisfying experience. Overall, the travel distance of the KD200 is longer than that of the Cream Yellow, which may influence your decision based on your personal preferences for key feel and feedback.

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, resulting in a pronounced and lively auditory experience when typing. This characteristic makes it a great choice for users who appreciate an engaging sound profile that enhances the enjoyment of typing. Meanwhile, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a defined sound profile mentioned, which suggests it may produce a more subdued sound compared to the KD200. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound produced by both switches will also depend on the choice of keyboard construction, stabilizers, and keycap material, which can greatly influence the final auditory feedback.

When it comes to feel, the HMX KD200 linear switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, which is typical of linear switches. This allows for uninterrupted key presses, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers seeking swift and fluid engagement. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch features a tactile bump designed to give a slight feedback at the actuation point, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced interaction with each keystroke. The contrasting feel between these two switches allows users to choose based on their typing style and preferences—whether they enjoy the seamless glide of a linear switch or the physical feedback from a tactile one.

In conclusion, the HMX KD200 offers a distinctly clacky sound profile that can appeal to those looking for an audibly engaging typing experience, while the Cream Yellow's sound characteristics remain unspecified, potentially resulting in a quieter operation. In terms of feel, the KD200 presents a smooth linear action, while the Cream Yellow provides tactile feedback, catering to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on whether an individual prioritizes auditory feedback or the physical sensation of each keystroke, ensuring both options can provide rewarding typing experiences depending on personal needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and the type of typing experience you’re seeking. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy the clacky sound, the KD200, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, can provide a satisfying and energizing typing experience, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. Its clackiness may also appeal to those who enjoy an auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer touch and a more subdued tactile response, the Cream Yellow at 60 grams offers a medium resistance that can enhance the feeling of control during your keystrokes. While it may not have a prominent reputation for sound, this switch can still deliver a smooth typing experience without excessive noise, making it suitable for quieter office environments or when you need to focus. Ultimately, consider what aspects are more important to you—whether it's the satisfying sound of the KD200 or the firm feel of the Cream Yellow—and align your choice with those preferences for the best typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more