HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Milk Peach

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and Outemu Milk Peach are standout linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The KD200 is recognized for its pronounced acoustic profile, making it the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which can appeal to users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach, while also a linear switch, is favored for its smooth keystrokes and consistent performance, ideal for those who prioritize a quiet yet responsive experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound to accompany your typing or a stealthier operation. 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

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The sound profiles created by the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and Outemu Milk Peach switches demonstrate a distinct contrast in their acoustic properties due to the variation between nylon and polycarbonate materials. The KD200 employs a nylon top housing, recognized for its softer characteristics that yield a deeper and fuller sound. This softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Peach features a polycarbonate top housing, notable for its stiffness, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is particularly effective at creating a clear and resonant tone, ideal for those who prefer an enhanced auditory feedback while typing. Thus, the primary difference in the top housings—nylon versus polycarbonate—greatly influences the acoustic experience provided by each switch.

When assessing the bottom housings, both the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Milk Peach utilize nylon, which results in a cohesive experience in terms of sound. Nylon’s inherent qualities impart a deeper and fuller sound profile to both switches, establishing a consistent auditory foundation when the keys are pressed down. This aspect of the housing is crucial since it influences how the bottom-out sound is felt and experienced. Given that both switches share the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar tactile response when engaging the switches, creating a harmonious feel even amidst differing top housing materials.

Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the HMX KD200 and Outemu Milk Peach characteristics illustrates an intriguing balance between the two designs. Users of the KD200 will enjoy the softer, fuller sound attributed to its nylon top, while Milk Peach users will appreciate the crisp clarity afforded by the polycarbonate top. Nevertheless, when activated, both switches will share the warmth and depth of sound emanating from their nylon bottoms. This blend of characteristics means that while the switches offer distinct auditory experiences during typing, they are united in their tactile impact and bottom-out sound, allowing for a nuanced yet coherent typing experience across both designs.

Weight

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch exhibit some similarities in actuation force, both requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke. This equal actuation force means that users can expect a similar typing feel in terms of the force needed to activate each switch, making both options suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KD200 has a defined measurement of 50 grams, indicating a slightly firmer resistance at the key's lowest point. In contrast, the Milk Peach switch lacks a specified bottom out force, leaving us without a concrete comparison for that metric. Given this information, the KD200 can be characterized as the heavier option overall, particularly due to its measurable bottom out force, while the Milk Peach is the lighter choice for actuation but lacks clarity on its bottoming out experience. Therefore, users seeking a more substantial feedback with a defined bottom out force may prefer the HMX KD200, while those who favor a lighter overall feel might lean towards the Outemu Milk Peach.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, there are notable differences. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Peach has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the KD200 offers a deeper press, which some users might find more satisfying for typing or gaming, as it provides a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Milk Peach's shorter travel distance lends itself to quicker response times, making it potentially more appealing for fast-paced gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. Thus, if you prefer a switch that feels more abrupt and responsive, the Milk Peach would be the better choice. Conversely, those who favor a more pronounced key press may appreciate the HMX KD200 for its longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch is known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting it has a more pronounced auditory profile than typical linear switches, which can often be muted. The Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, however, does not have any specific sound qualities attributed to it, leaving its auditory characteristics less defined. This may suggest a quieter or more subdued sound profile, but the actual sound produced by both switches can still vary significantly depending on the keyboard build, such as the material used for the board and the type of keycaps selected.

When discussing feel, the KD200 switch is not explicitly described, making it difficult to draw specific comparisons. On the other hand, the Milk Peach switch is also not detailed in terms of tactile feedback or responsiveness. This lack of clarity on both switches means that any conclusions about their feel cannot be reliably established without more information.

Overall, while the HMX KD200 is characterized by its unique clackiness, the Outemu Milk Peach lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel. This means that while the KD200 may offer a more pronounced auditory experience, the Milk Peach may offer a more neutral sound profile. As both switches lack explicit descriptions regarding feel, it’s difficult to discern how they might compare in terms of tactile satisfaction. In any case, experimentation with these switches and consideration of specific keyboard builds will be key to uncovering their true characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter key press and appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming, the KD200 would be a great fit for you. Its 50 grams of bottom-out force combined with its clacky sound profile makes it particularly satisfying for those who seek an engaging tactile experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that prioritizes smoothness and a more muted sound profile, the Outemu Milk Peach could suit you better. While its bottom-out force details are unspecified, users typically find it conducive for quiet environments and long typing sessions. In essence, if you want an expressive and lively typing experience, the HMX KD200 will serve you well, while the Outemu Milk Peach is ideal if you prefer a subtler, more serene feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more