HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Ocean both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KD200, noted for its clacky sound profile, provides a tactile satisfaction that many typists and gamers appreciate, making it a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean excels in delivering a quieter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued environment or work in shared spaces. Both switches belong to the linear category, which means they feature a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump found in other types. Nevertheless, choosing between the clacky KD200 and the muted Silent Ocean ultimately depends on your personal preference for sound and feedback. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches demonstrate contrasting characteristics in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter crafted from polycarbonate. The KD200’s nylon top housing contributes to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, thanks to the material’s softer nature, which absorbs sound effectively. This absorption helps to create a sound that is rounder and less sharp, making it ideal for users seeking a more subdued acoustic feedback during typing. In contrast, the Silent Ocean’s polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, producing a more crisp auditory experience. Users who prefer a pronounced and clear feedback when typing may find the Silent Ocean switch more appealing due to its sound profile.
On the other hand, when considering the bottom housing materials, both switches use nylon for their respective bottom housings. This similarity lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the differing top housing types. The nylon’s ability to absorb sound results in a consistent bottom-out feel and noise across both switches. Therefore, while the KD200 and Silent Ocean diverge in their top housing materials, they maintain a cohesive auditory experience through their shared nylon bottom housings. This dual-material design allows for a unique contrast in sound based on each switch's respective top housing while ensuring that the tactile characteristics remain somewhat unified.
The combined effects of the different top and identical bottom housing materials further illustrate how the overall typing experience is a nuanced interplay of acoustics and tactile feedback. For both switches, the nylon bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, giving users a consistent tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the varying top housing materials allow typists to experience distinctly different sound profiles upon releasing the key. Thus, while the KD200 offers a rounded, muted sound through its nylon top, the Outemu Silent Ocean presents a brighter, more resonant auditory experience due to its polycarbonate top. This makes both switches valuable options, appealing to users looking for tailored auditory feedback alongside a consistent tactile sensation from the nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it's clear that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which makes them equally light in terms of the pressure required to trigger a keystroke. This characteristic can result in a comfortable typing experience, particularly for long sessions, whether at work or during extended gaming. However, the differences become more pronounced when considering the bottom out forces. The KD200 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Ocean's bottom out force is significantly heavier at 65 grams. This discrepancy means that the KD200 offers a softer landing point after key presses, which might appeal to users who favor a lighter feel, whereas the heavier bottom out of the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial tactile feedback, suiting those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that is lighter overall, the HMX KD200 is the better option, while the Outemu Silent Ocean caters to users who appreciate a heavier feel with a more pronounced bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Ocean measures 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, providing a quicker actuation that can benefit gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper and more substantial feel, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if one favors responsiveness and speed, the KD200 would be the better fit, while those who appreciate a richer tactile sensation may lean towards the Silent Ocean.
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 Silent Ocean 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 known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which suggests that it produces a more pronounced and audible clicking noise with each keystroke. This might appeal to users who enjoy a more audible typing experience, as the sound can provide a satisfying feedback loop while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch lacks notable sound characteristics, indicating a more muted auditory profile. This switch is designed for environments where noise reduction is important, making it an excellent choice for quiet offices or shared spaces. Overall, the KD200's sound profile leans toward the expressive and pronounced, while the Silent Ocean favors discretion and quiet operation.
When considering the feel of these switches, the KD200 likely emphasizes a tactile response that corresponds with its clackier nature, offering users a distinctive sensation with each keypress that can enhance typing confidence and enjoyment. This switch’s design may also support a smooth actuation that feels satisfying under finger. In contrast, the Silent Ocean linear switch is tailored to provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or sound distraction, which can create a seamless typing experience. This makes it particularly suitable for users who prioritize a fluid and uninterrupted motion while typing or gaming, as it allows for rapid key presses without any tactile feedback getting in the way.
In summary, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out with its clackiness and engaging tactile feedback, ideal for users looking for an expressive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offers a silent and smooth action, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the KD200 for a more active sound and feel or choose the Silent Ocean for a serene, uninterrupted experience. Both switches deliver unique qualities that can enhance user experience, whether it’s through engaging auditory feedback or understated functionality.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal typing style and environment. If you prefer a switch that offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a more pronounced tactile experience—making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming—the KD200 would be your best choice. Its clacky characteristic can provide a satisfying auditory feedback that some users may find enjoyable, especially in a setting where you aren’t concerned about noise levels. On the other hand, if you’re in a quieter environment where sound is a priority, the Outemu Silent Ocean’s 65-gram actuation force offers a more subdued and muted experience, minimizing sound while still delivering a solid typing feel. This makes it a perfect fit for office work or shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you desire a lively typing experience with some noticeable sound or a more hushed and heavy-keyed approach.
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