HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and Outemu Gold are two distinct options catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences. The KD200, celebrated for its clackiness, offers a satisfying tactile feedback while ensuring a smooth, linear keystroke that many typists and gamers appreciate for its consistent performance. Its design makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing responsiveness. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold, known for its pronounced clicky sound, delivers an audible and tactile affirmation with each press, making it a popular option for users who enjoy a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters. While both switches cater to specific user needs—whether you seek a silent yet linear stroke or an engaging clicky feel—understanding the nuances of each can significantly enhance your overall keyboard experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
The housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Gold switches present a study in contrasts, particularly when considering their top housings. The KD200 utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is recognized for its softer characteristics that contribute to a warmer and deeper sound profile during typing. This aspect is primarily due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties, which help create a sound that is duller and more rounded. In contrast, the Outemu Gold features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature that produces a crisper and clearer sound profile. Users who prioritize sharper acoustics may find these distinctions significant when choosing between the two switches, as the choice of housing material directly influences the auditory experience during use.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This similarity means that, despite their differing top housings, both switches deliver a similar foundational typing feel attributable to the nylon's properties. The nylon bottom housing in both the KD200 and the Gold promotes a fuller and deeper sound profile, reinforcing the notion that both switches will provide a satisfying bottom-out experience. As such, gamers and typists can expect a consistent tactile feedback from the bottom section of both switches, even if the auditory characteristics from the top vary significantly.
Ultimately, the combined effect of the materials used in both the top and bottom housings leads to a unique typing experience with each switch. The KD200's nylon top softens the sound while the bottom maintains that depth, creating a harmonious balance ideal for users who prefer a muted sound profile. Conversely, the Outemu Gold, with its polycarbonate top, offers a crisper auditory sensation while sharing the same nylon bottom, ensuring that the overall impact on bottom-out sound remains consistent. Thus, while the specific materials differ, the overall typing experience can still present similarities due to the shared characteristics of their nylon bottom housings, allowing users to find comfort in either choice depending on their sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are notable differences in their bottom out forces, despite both having the same actuation force of 45 grams. The KD200 is characterized by a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter overall, which can be advantageous for users who anticipate extensive typing or gaming sessions due to the reduced effort required to press the keys. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users might prefer for its tactile feedback. Therefore, while both switches feature the same actuation force, the Outemu Gold’s heavier bottom out force indicates it is more suitable for those seeking a firmer key feel, whereas the KD200 is optimal for users who prioritize lightweight switches for prolonged use.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch differ in their travel distances, with the KD200 featuring a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gold's 4 mm. This means that the KD200 offers a more responsive feel, which might appeal to gamers who favor quicker key presses for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced depth, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, while both switches can cater to different preferences, the KD200 is the shorter option, making it better suited for those seeking rapid responsiveness, whereas the Gold offers a more traditional feel with its longer 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 Outemu Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch is recognized for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback while typing, likely enhancing the typing experience for users who enjoy a more resonant and vibrant acoustic environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile attributed to it in the available information, which makes it challenging to draw a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by both switches can be significantly influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX KD200 provides a smooth linear experience, which is typically associated with a more uninterrupted keypress. This can lead to faster typing speeds and less finger fatigue, making it appealing for gamers and touch typists alike. In contrast, while details on the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch are not provided, clicky switches generally offer tactile feedback with an audible click at the actuation point, which can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy tactile responses and the sensation of feedback as they engage each key.
In conclusion, if you are leaning towards a sound-focused experience, the HMX KD200 may cater to your preferences with its definitely clacky sound signature, while the Outemu Gold lacks a defined sound characteristic in the information provided. For feel, the KD200’s smooth linear action may appeal to those seeking seamless keystrokes, while the Gold's tactile clicky feedback, which remains unspecified, could cater to individuals who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. Overall, your choice will be shaped by whether you prioritize sound or tactile feedback, but both switches offer distinct experiences that can be tailored through different setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, the KD200 is likely your best bet; its bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it easier to type quickly and minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. It’s particularly suitable for fast typists or gamers who appreciate the quietness of linear switches while still enjoying a gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback and a noticeable click sound with each keystroke, the Outemu Gold is the way to go. With a higher bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a more deliberate typing experience, making it ideal for those who want audible confirmation of their keypresses. The clicky nature of the Gold switch adds a unique sound profile that many typists treasure for its nostalgic mechanical keyboard charm. Therefore, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and the key feel you desire as you make your decision between these two switches.
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