HMX KD200 vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between a variety of options tailored to specific preferences and needs. The HMX KD200, known as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a satisfying linear feel ideal for those who prefer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes without tactile feedback. This makes it a great option for gamers and typists seeking speed and precision. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze switches bring a distinct clicky experience with their unique nylon housing and POM stem combination, creating a deeper sound profile than typical clicky switches. This satisfying auditory feedback can enhance typing enjoyment for those who appreciate a more tactile response. Each switch caters to different user preferences; while the KD200 is perfect for those who value speed and quiet operation, the Spring Breeze appeals to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced sound and tactile sensation. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 of the HMX KD200 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches share a significant similarity, as both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon, recognized as a classic material for switch construction, contributes to a distinct auditory experience. Specifically, because nylon is a softer plastic, it has the unique ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This property results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches equipped with nylon, creating a rounder and more muted acoustic output. Since both the KD200 and Spring Breeze incorporate nylon in their housing construction, users can expect alike sound characteristics, notably in the softer tone produced during typing.
Despite the reliance on the same material, there remains a potential distinction in tactile feel and sound between the two switches, depending on other design aspects, such as the spring mechanism and internal components. While both the KD200 and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer a consistent nylon sound dampening quality due to their housings, the overall typing experience can still vary. The bottom housing generally impacts the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing primarily influences the sound upon key release. Therefore, the specific configuration of the switches, in conjunction with the nylon material, may lead to slight differences in tactile feedback, even if the acoustic signatures are largely similar.
In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 and Outemu Spring Breeze switches employ nylon in their top and bottom housings, making them favorable choices for those seeking a muted, rounded sound profile. While this shared materiality leads to similar auditory characteristics, potential variances in performance may arise from the switches' internal components and engineering. Thus, users can look forward to a comparable sound experience, characterized by depth and warmth, while being mindful of the subtle differences in feel imparted by each switch's unique design nuances.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The KD200 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light option suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Spring Breeze has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches offer relatively light actuation forces, the Outemu Spring Breeze requires more force to bottom out, providing a firmer feel during typing. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the KD200 for its lower bottom out force, while users desiring a more substantial touch sensation may gravitate toward the slightly heavier Spring Breeze, particularly because it provides a more pronounced tactile feedback at the bottom of the keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, the KD200 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Spring Breeze has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in distance can significantly affect the feel and response during typing or gaming. The shorter travel distance of the KD200 may provide quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking speed and rapid key presses. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Spring Breeze appeals to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and a satisfying depth while typing, preventing the experience from feeling too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences—favoring either the more responsive, shorter travel of the KD200 or the traditional, deeper feel of the Spring Breeze.
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 Spring Breeze 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
The HMX KD200 linear switch is renowned for its pronounced clacking sound, making it the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch lineup. This distinct auditory characteristic is likely to appeal to users who enjoy a more engaging and dynamic sound profile while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch features a unique material combination of a nylon housing and POM stem, which produces a deeper sound than typical clicky switches. This can offer a satisfying auditory feedback particularly appealing to those who enjoy clicks but prefer a different tonal quality rather than a sharp high-pitched click.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 linear switch delivers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or click. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize a fluid typing experience, offering a clear and straightforward action with each press. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze clicky switch provides a tactile and audible feedback that enhances the typing experience. The clicky nature offers a sense of satisfaction and reassurance with each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more engagement from their switches.
In summary, the HMX KD200 represents an option oriented toward those who appreciate sound depth with a smooth, uninterrupted feel, while the Outemu Spring Breeze caters to users who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback coupled with tactile engagement. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more classic linear experience or a dynamic clicky feel, each providing its unique qualities and personality.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and quieter experience, the KD200 is an excellent choice with its lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, which promotes quick and easy actuation—ideal for gaming or fast typing without any noticeable resistance. Additionally, its reputation as the clackiest member of the HMX Film family means that you can expect a distinctly unique sound profile that could enhance your typing enjoyment if you appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you are someone who enjoys tactile feedback and a more pronounced click sound, the Spring Breeze is likely your best option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a balanced medium-light feeling, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Its nylon housing paired with a POM stem delivers a deeper sound signature compared to typical clicky switches, adding an enjoyable auditory dimension to your experience. In essence, choose the KD200 if you seek a fast, quiet, and smooth typing experience, while the Spring Breeze may be the right fit if you value a more tactile feedback with pronounced clicking sounds.
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