HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Peach

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the highly clack-worthy HMX KD200 and the smooth, muted Outemu Peach. The KD200, renowned as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a dynamic tactile experience that can elevate typing and gaming to new levels of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach caters to users seeking a feather-light touch with its silenced design, providing a quieter option without sacrificing the smoothness that linear switches are known for. While the KD200's distinct acoustics can bring a satisfying soundscape to your typing, the Outemu Peach's lightweight and muted characteristics create an ideal environment for those who prefer discretion in their keystrokes. 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 Peach Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX KD200 and the Outemu Peach share similarities in their housing materials, which are both constructed from nylon for both the top and bottom sections. This commonality ensures that users will experience a richer and more resonant sound profile when typing on either switch. Nylon is renowned for its ability to dampen sound due to its softer plastic construction, allowing it to absorb vibrations more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, both switches are likely to produce a duller and rounder sound when pressed, resulting in a typing experience that many users find satisfying and enjoyable.

Moreover, the design dynamics of the KD200 and Peach switches take advantage of their nylon materials in complementary ways. While both switches benefit from the sound-enhancing properties of nylon, the feel and sound during a keyboard key press can still vary due to nuances in their internal mechanisms or spring tensions. Each switch's bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the auditory feedback when releasing a key. Since both switches are made from the same material, their overall acoustic profiles will be similar, leading to a cohesive typing experience regardless of individual design differences.

In examining the tactile feedback and sound involvement of these switches, it becomes evident that the shared nylon housings facilitate comparable outcomes. Both the HMX KD200 and Outemu Peach switches elicit a typing experience characterized by a deep and fuller sound profile that typists often crave. Therefore, even if personal preferences may lead a user to choose one switch over the other based on factors like aesthetics or brand loyalty, the fundamental auditory attributes will largely remain consistent due to the identical material properties. Thus, users can expect a similar performance outcome when engaging with either switch.

Weight

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch present interesting comparisons in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The KD200 features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Peach has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This makes the Outemu Peach the lighter option, potentially offering a more comfortable typing experience for those who type for extended periods or prefer a less taxing keystroke. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that regardless of the actuation force differences, users will experience a similar resistance when pressing the key all the way down. In summary, while the KD200 is heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches ultimately deliver the same bottom out experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, there is a slight difference that may affect user experience. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a bit deeper than the Peach, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that users who prefer a more responsive feel may find the Peach more appealing due to its shorter actuation distance, while those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke might favor the KD200 for its additional depth. Despite the minimal difference, the KD200 offers a more cushioned experience, while the Peach could be seen as more suitable for fast-paced gaming where quicker key presses are advantageous. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 is known for being the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch lineup, which often translates to a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This prominent clackiness can provide an engaging and satisfying experience for those who enjoy a louder, more dynamic sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Peach switches are designed for a much quieter operation. They feature a muted sound signature, making them an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be minimized. The Peach’s neutral sound adds versatility, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced users regardless of whether they’re working from home or in a shared office space.

Regarding the feel of each switch, the KD200 offers a typing experience that is more on the clacky side, lending itself to a more tactile sensation during use, which some enthusiasts might find exhilarating. However, specific details about the exact feel of the KD200 are not available. In comparison, the Peach switches provide a mild and subtle feel, characterized by gentle resistance that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. This makes the Peach notably lighter, which aligns with those who desire a softer keystroke that minimizes fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Peach enhances the overall smoothness and reduces friction, making for a refined typing experience.

In summary, while the HMX KD200 is tailored for users who appreciate a clacky sound and potentially a firmer touch, the Outemu Peach offers a muted auditory experience with a soft and polished feel ideal for quieter environments. If one values pronounced feedback, the KD200 is the better choice, whereas the Peach excels for a lightweight and refined typing experience without auditory distractions. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and your typist style will dictate which switch provides the most satisfying experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and environment. If you prefer a lightweight switch that also brings a bit of personality to your typing experience with its clacky sound profile, the KD200 is the way to go. It's particularly well-suited for gamers or typists who enjoy a more engaging auditory feedback, making every keystroke feel lively and dynamic. On the other hand, if you are in a shared workspace or simply favor a quieter, more refined typing experience, the Outemu Peach switch would be your best bet. The muted and polished characteristics of the Peach allow for an extremely smooth and gentle typing feel, making it ideal for long hours of writing or working without disturbing those around you. Therefore, consider your environment and personal preferences when deciding; both switches offer a 50-gram bottom-out force that caters to lighter touch, but they cater to distinctly different experiences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Peach Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more