HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Outemu Green switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The KD200, lauded as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides a smooth and engaging typing experience that appeals to those who appreciate a responsive, linear action without tactile feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer rapid key presses and a quieter operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Green, categorized as a clicky switch, delivers a satisfying audible click with each key press, ideal for users who enjoy a tactile response and enjoy the rhythm of their typing. The clicky feedback can enhance typing satisfaction for writers and programmers who thrive on the sound and feel of their keystrokes. Both switches have their unique merits, catering to various ergonomic preferences and typing styles; 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Green, we find a notable contrast in the materials used for their top housing. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft plastic absorbs sound effectively, which results in a sound that is dulled and rounded, ideal for users who prefer a more muted auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Green opts for polycarbonate in its top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness. As a result, the Green offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Therefore, while both switches are designed to provide distinct auditory experiences, the materials used contribute significantly to their overall sound characteristics.
In contrast, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, ensuring a unified auditory experience in this area. As with the KD200, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green delivers a deeper and fuller sound, reflecting the material's classic reputation within switch design. Since both models rely on nylon in this part of the switch, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound and feel when typing. The impact of this nylon bottom housing is especially important because it serves to dampen sound effectively, reinforcing the rounded acoustic profile of the switches as a whole.
Consequently, users of both the KD200 and Outemu Green can anticipate a combination of sound profiles where the differentiation in top housing materials creates a diverse auditory experience. The KD200's nylon top housing will produce a more subdued sound when releasing the key, while the Outemu Green’s polycarbonate top will contribute a sharper resonance. However, the consistent use of nylon in both bottom housings guarantees that the foundational sound characteristics will feel more similar, resulting in deeper and rounder responses upon key presses. Therefore, despite the materials' contrasts in the top housings, the shared nylon composition in the bottom provides a harmonizing element that can yield satisfying results in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the Outemu Green clicky switch, a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating longer typing sessions and enhancing comfort during extended use. In contrast, the Outemu Green switch is significantly heavier, with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom-out force of 80 grams. This increased weight offers a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a firmer key feel. Consequently, while both switches have their merits, the HMX KD200 is ideal for users seeking a lighter switch, whereas the Outemu Green is suited for those who favor a heavier resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, the KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Green measures at 4.0 mm. This indicates that the KD200 has a shorter travel distance, which can lead to quicker response times—a feature highly favored by gamers seeking rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Green's longer travel distance of 4.0 mm provides a more substantial feel, offering a deeper key press that some users prefer for a more tactile experience. Therefore, if you lean towards responsiveness and faster actuation, the KD200 is the ideal choice, whereas if you appreciate a more pronounced key travel, the Outemu Green 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 Green 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
In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch is celebrated for being the clackiest switch in its family, delivering an engaging acoustic experience that many typists and gamers find satisfying. The Outemu Green clicky switch, on the other hand, produces a pronounced audible click with each keystroke, giving feedback that is not only tactile but also distinctly loud. Both switches offer their own unique auditory profiles, creating an enjoyable typing atmosphere; however, the KD200’s clackiness may resonate well with those who appreciate more resonant feedback, while the Green's clickiness appeals to users who favor a more traditional sound associated with mechanical typing.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 linear switch is designed to provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke journey, making it ideal for quick, repeated presses without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Outemu Green clicky switch offers a tactile bump at the actuation point, giving a satisfying feedback that can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy physical sensations in their keystrokes. This difference in feel sets the two switches apart, catering to the preferences of users—whether one seeks the fluidity of linear action or the responsive feedback of a clicky switch.
In summary, while the HMX KD200 linear switch is known for its clackiness in sound and smooth feel, the Outemu Green clicky switch is characterized by its distinct click sound and tactile feedback. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile sensation, as each offers a unique typing experience. Whether you favor the undisturbed flow of the KD200 or the engaging clicks of the Green, you can expect enjoyable and distinct typing experiences from either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and how you intend to use your mechanical keyboard. If you favor a light touch with a softer bottom-out force, the KD200 is an excellent choice, particularly for fast-paced typing or gaming where speed and efficiency are crucial. Its clacky sound adds an enjoyable and distinctive acoustic signature, making it suitable for those who appreciate auditory feedback without the resistance of a clicky switch. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile and tactile typing experience with a stronger bottom-out force, the Outemu Green switch might be more aligned with your needs. Its heavier actuation is great for those who prefer a pronounced feedback and enjoy the satisfying click sound, making it ideal for writers or typists who appreciate a more deliberate and engaging interaction. In summary, consider the KD200 for a lighter, smoother typing experience infused with sound, and opt for the Outemu Green when you seek a more robust, clicky feel that enhances your keystrokes.
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