HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Yellow both present compelling options, particularly for those who favor linear switches. The KD200, renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a distinct auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find exhilarating, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy an audible typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow is designed to minimize noise without sacrificing performance, appealing to users who prefer a quieter workspace or late-night gaming sessions. Both switches provide a smooth keystroke feel, but their contrasting sound profiles cater to different user preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
2.20 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 housing materials used in the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches present a fascinating contrast, particularly in the top housing. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, well known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon’s softer plastic nature, which absorbs sound waves rather than amplifying them. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound, making the typing experience warmer and less sharp, ideal for users who prefer a smoother auditory feedback. Conversely, the Silent Yellow adopts a polycarbonate top housing, noted for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate, which contribute to a more resonant sound, enhancing the clarity of keystrokes, particularly valuable for typists who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience. As a result, users of these switches can expect markedly different auditory experiences based on housing materials.
When examining the bottom housing, both the KD200 and the Silent Yellow utilize nylon, which results in a consistent sound profile across both switches. The nylon bottom housing's softness contributes significantly to the depth and fullness of sound that typists experience when the switch bottoms out. This commonality allows both switches to provide a duller and rounder auditory feedback on the bottoming action, ensuring that, regardless of the differences in the top housings, there is alignment in the foundational characteristics of both switches. Consequently, while the top housings lead to distinct auditory profiles, the nylon bottom housings harmonize their sound experience, creating a cohesive feel.
Ultimately, while the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Silent Yellow diverge in their sound profiles due to the contrasting top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—they converge in their bottom housing performance. This division between the top and bottom contributions to sound underscores the complexity of switch design, where the choice of materials influences tactile feedback and auditory outcomes in typing. By possessing similar bottom housings, both switches harness the benefits of nylon, thus allowing users to achieve a shared quality in sound when pressing down on their keys while retaining unique characteristics owing to their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we can observe both similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making their initial keystroke feel equally light and responsive. This characteristic is likely to appeal to users who favor extended typing sessions or gaming, as it allows for less strain during prolonged use. However, the bottom out forces reveal a distinction: while the KD200 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Silent Yellow features a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This difference indicates that although both switches feel similarly during actuation, the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial tactile feedback when bottomed out, catering to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter overall experience, the HMX KD200 would be the better choice, while the Outemu Silent Yellow is better suited for those who favor a heavier touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the key difference lies in their travel distances: the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Yellow measures 4 mm. This distinction indicates that the KD200 offers a shorter travel distance, catering to those who prioritize responsiveness—ideal for gamers who benefit from quicker actuation times. Conversely, the Silent Yellow, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial keypress experience that some users may find preferable for typing or for a more tactile feel. As a result, individuals seeking a lively, responsive experience would lean toward the KD200, whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced and deeper keystroke might opt for the Silent Yellow. Overall, the KD200’s 3.5 mm travel distance promotes speed, while the Silent Yellow’s 4 mm travel distance emphasizes depth.
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 Yellow 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 best known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which indicates a sharp auditory profile that will likely stand out in a crowded space. This can be appealing for users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback from their keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is designed with noise reduction in mind, producing a much quieter typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a discreet setup that won’t disturb others around you, the Silent Yellow would be a better choice. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound may vary depending on the type of keyboard and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 offers a tactile experience that is associated with its clackiness, likely providing a satisfying engagement that many typists and gamers appreciate. This sort of feedback can enhance the sensation of each keypress and help improve typing accuracy. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch is known for a smoother, less pronounced keystroke, which can enable faster typing with less finger fatigue over extended periods. For those who prefer a muted, fluid motion while typing or gaming, the Silent Yellow switch will likely be more appealing.
In conclusion, the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. If you enjoy a more tactile and acoustic typing experience, the KD200 will provide a clackier response. Conversely, for those seeking a quieter and smoother feel, the Silent Yellow switch would be the ideal choice. Your selection will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize sound profile or typing experience, as each switch delivers distinct qualities that can enhance your overall keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the decision ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter switch that allows for a quicker actuation with minimal resistance, the KD200's 50-gram bottom-out force makes it an excellent choice, especially for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions. The KD200 is also distinguished by its clacky sound profile, which may appeal to those who enjoy an audible feedback from their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel with a bottom-out force of 60 grams and value quieter operation, the Silent Yellow will serve you well. Its design minimizes noise, making it suitable for shared or quiet environments where you may want to avoid disturbing others. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a lighter, more audible switch with pronounced feedback, or a slightly heavier, quieter option for a more subdued typing experience.
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