HMX KD200 vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro stand out as compelling options within the linear switch category, each offering unique auditory and tactile experiences. The KD200 is celebrated for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a distinctive sound profile that appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro boasts a lively and crisp sound signature brought about by its long pole design, ensuring that every tap results in an engaging auditory experience while maintaining a smooth actuation. This switch's characteristics — encapsulated by descriptors such as 'bouncy,' 'clacky,' and 'polished' — further enhance its appeal to users seeking a tactile yet fluid typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches offer delightful performance and sound, they cater to different preferences and styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of both the HMX KD200 and Akko V3 Piano Pro are composed entirely of nylon, which offers a unique consistency in sound and typing experience across both keyboard models. This nylon construction contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many users appreciate. The softer plastic property of nylon allows the switches to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a dampened and rounded acoustic quality that diminishes the harshness often associated with harder plastic housings. This similarity in material translates into a comparable typing experience, where users can expect a similar auditory pleasure and tactile experience from both keyboards.

Furthermore, both the KD200 and V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, reinforcing the benefits that come with this choice of material. The nylon bottom housing plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound during the key release. Since both keyboards employ nylon throughout, the combination of these housings results in a consistent performance that enhances the overall experience. Any variations in feel or sound that may arise from different switch designs will still be grounded in the nylon’s fundamental characteristics, allowing users to enjoy a similar soundscape while typing.

In contrast, if either of the keyboards had different materials for the top and bottom housings, we would witness a more nuanced sound profile where the distinct qualities of each type of material would interactively shape the acoustic properties of the switches. However, since both the HMX KD200 and the Akko V3 Piano Pro stick to nylon for both housings, users are likely to experience a seamless integration of sound dampening and tactile feedback. This ensures that regardless of the specific keyboard choice, the pneumatic qualities are harmonized, providing an enjoyable typing experience with rich sound characteristics that echo the use of classic nylon throughout.

Weight

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a similar level of ease when triggering keystrokes; this means that both switches will perform comparably in terms of the physical effort required for typing. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the KD200 featuring a bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro’s 55 grams. This makes the KD200 not only lighter overall but also potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the V3 Piano Pro may provide users with a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback during use.

Travel distance

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys for both switches. Since they have identical travel distances, this similarity ensures that the keys will engage and bottom out at the same depth, allowing for consistent performance and feel. Therefore, whether using the KD200 or the V3 Piano Pro, users will achieve equivalent results in terms of key travel and actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch distinctly stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, leading to a vibrant auditory experience that many typists enjoy. However, specific details about its sound profile are not provided, making it difficult to fully assess its auditory characteristics. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is lauded for its snappy sound signature, which produces a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. This sound is immersive and resonant, contributing to a lively typing atmosphere. Thus, while the KD200 leans toward a clackier sound profile, the V3 Piano Pro offers a more refined auditory charm, creating a noticeably different auditory experience when typing.

When considering feel, the HMX KD200 does not have an explicit description available, making it challenging to evaluate its tactile experience conclusively. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is characterized by a combination of bounciness, creaminess, polished textures, and a silky smooth typing experience. This blend allows for an elastic feedback sensation, enabling a lively and responsive feel with each keystroke. The well-lubricated construction ensures a buttery glide that enhances finger movement across the keys, adding to the overall enjoyment and smoothness of the typing process.

In summary, while the HMX KD200 offers a clackier sound profile that may appeal to some users, the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides a richer auditory experience with its snappy and resonant qualities. The lack of tactile details for the KD200 leaves a gap in its comparative feel against the V3 Piano Pro, which excels in delivering a smooth, polished, and bouncy typing sensation. For newcomers, these switches present differing attributes; depending on your preference for sound and feel, you could potentially find joy in either switch's unique characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a switch that provides a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience, the KD200, renowned for its clacky sound, may be your best bet. Its engaging acoustic signature makes every keystroke feel vibrant and lively, ideal for those who relish the sound of their keyboard as much as its feel. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation along with a smooth yet snappy typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro is an excellent choice. With its creamy texture and bouncy feedback, it caters to users who appreciate a refined typing sensation while enjoying a crisp auditory experience. Ultimately, consider how much weight you want in your keystrokes and whether you favor a more pronounced sound or a silky smooth feel—and select the switch that aligns best with your typing journey.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Akko V3 Piano Pro Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more