HMX KD200 vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between different options is essential. The HMX KD200, a member of the HMX Film switch family, is known for its pronounced clackiness, offering an auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find exhilarating. This linear switch boasts a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, making it ideal for those who prefer rapid key presses and minimal resistance. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches provide a more tactile experience with a beautiful translucent design. With a light actuation force of only 37g, they minimize finger fatigue during long typing sessions, while a 50g tactile force delivers a satisfying bump to enhance keystroke acknowledgment. The Phalaenopsis is celebrated for its bassy, stepped, and thocky characteristics, catering to users who appreciate both feel and sound. Both switches carry their own distinct advantages: the KD200 excels in smoothness and speed, while the Phalaenopsis shines in its tactile feedback and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize different materials for their switch housings, resulting in distinct acoustic profiles that affect typing experience. The KD200 features a nylon top housing known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thanks to nylon's softer plastic properties, it absorbs sound effectively, enabling a more muted acoustic feedback that contributes to a rounder sound signature. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis employs a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate lends itself to a more resonant sound quality, making the acoustics markedly different between these two switches.
When analyzing the bottom housings, the KD200 again uses nylon, effectively promoting the same sound characteristics—deep and full. This suggests that the feel during bottoming out will be softer and more subdued, appealing to users who appreciate a more cushiony tactile experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This material choice maintains the higher-pitched and clearer sound profile, giving it a more engaging percussive feel as keys bottom out. Thus, while both switches employ the same material (nylon) in their bottom housing, the variance in materials creates different acoustic experiences and tactile feedback during typing.
Overall, the use of contrasting materials in both the top and bottom housings of these switches dramatically influences the sound profiles and tactile experiences they offer. The KD200's nylon housing contributes to its depth and warmth, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate housing results in a bright and precise auditory output. However, if one seeks similar results, they can utilize the KD200 for a softer typing experience with muted sound levels, while the Phalaenopsis offers a more vibrant and pronounced acoustics. Therefore, regardless of the housing material, selecting the right switch can create an enjoyable experience tailored to personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we observe that both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to fully depress. However, the actuation forces differ, with the KD200 requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This difference means that the Phalaenopsis, being the lighter option, is likely to offer a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the KD200 provides a slightly heftier feel, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push sensation when typing. Overall, those who value lighter switches may lean towards the Phalaenopsis, while those seeking a stronger tactile feedback may find the KD200 more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that they differ: the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Phalaenopsis measures 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, appealing to those who seek faster response times, particularly favored by gamers who benefit from the quick actuation. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Therefore, if you are looking for responsiveness and efficiency, the KD200 is the way to go, whereas if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a hearty depth, the Phalaenopsis would be the better choice. Both switches cater to different preferences in the typing experience based on their distinct travel distances.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 sound profile of the HMX KD200 linear switch is notably distinctive, presenting itself as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. This means that it likely delivers a sharp and crisp sound that can be quite pronounced, making it ideal for typists who enjoy an audible response to their key presses. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a unique sound experience characterized as both bassy and thocky. This deeper sound profile provides a rich audio feedback that resembles the satisfying thud or knock when the key is engaged and released, creating an immersive typing experience. The sound quality of both switches can be influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycap material, but the inherent qualities of the KD200 and Phalaenopsis offer distinct auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the KD200's linear switch typically allows for a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke devoid of any tactile bump, but the specific details on its feel remain unknown. Meanwhile, the KTT Phalaenopsis features a stepped tactile feel, providing a discernible but mild tactile bump that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming the user. This makes the Phalaenopsis particularly appealing for users who appreciate feedback during their typing without the abruptness of highly tactile switches. The contrast between the smooth action of the KD200 and the more nuanced feedback of the Phalaenopsis offers typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
In summary, the HMX KD200 and KTT Phalaenopsis switches bring unique sound and feel characteristics that can suit a range of typists' preferences. The KD200's clackiness provides a sharp auditory experience, while the Phalaenopsis offers a satisfying deep sound and a mild tactile response. Those seeking a smooth, linear feel may gravitate toward the KD200, while those who prefer tactile feedback would find joy in the stepped sensation of the Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, each switch has its strengths and caters to different tastes in both sound and touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and how you envision your keyboard experience. If you gravitate towards a smooth and linear feel without any tactile interruptions, the KD200 may be your best option, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound profile. It pairs well with gaming and fast-paced typing, allowing for fluid movements across the keys. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides tactile feedback along with a rich and deep sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis is the way to go. Its lighter actuation force ensures minimal finger fatigue during extended use, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, consider your priorities: go for the KD200 if you prefer speed and smoothness, or choose the Phalaenopsis for an engaging typing experience with distinct tactile feedback.
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