HMX KD200 vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Durock Sea Glass each offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The KD200, recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivers a distinctly audible sound, making each keystroke a delightful auditory experience for users who enjoy that satisfying click. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches stand out not only for their five pastel color options but also for their remarkable typing feel; featuring a proprietary blend of materials, they provide an airy, feathery sensation with a smooth operation despite their 62g bottom-out force. This creates a typing experience that feels weightless and less aggressive on the fingers. While the KD200 emphasizes a pronounced tactile feedback, the Sea Glass encapsulates an elegant yet distinct dryness in sound, offering a more subdued auditory atmosphere. Ultimately, while both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, their differing characteristics can influence your overall typing experience. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and Durock Sea Glass switches offer noteworthy distinctions in their housing materials, yet both employ nylon in their construction, promoting a balanced auditory experience. The KD200 relies entirely on classic nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer composition that absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory output. Users who prefer a "thumpier" and more subdued typing experience might gravitate towards the KD200, as this design essentially optimizes the qualities of sound absorption through its entirely nylon-based structure.
In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass utilizes a unique polymer blend of nylon and UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. This innovative composition results in a sound profile that is somewhat brighter and less dull than that of the KD200. While still pleasant, the acoustic characteristics produced by this blend lead to a typing experience that feels more refined and sharper. The incorporation of UHMWPE allows for increased durability and a slightly different textual experience, which may appeal to users looking for a bit more tactile feedback alongside the auditory sensations from the switch.
Despite these differences, both switches can produce pleasing results in terms of sound and feel through their carefully chosen materials. If a user is concerned about achieving a similar typing experience between the two, they may focus on how the unique contributions of each housing material interplay. For instance, while the KD200 provides a deeper sound due to its all-nylon construction, the Durock Sea Glass balances that with a brighter soundscape afforded by its polymer blend. This means that, regardless of the subtle differences in sound profiles, users can expect satisfactory performance rooted in the nuanced interplay of the top and bottom housing qualities, ensuring an engaging experience in both cases.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer distinct experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light and enjoyable for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the KD200 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sea Glass reaches 62 grams, indicating a heavier feel when pressed all the way down. This difference means that while both switches will trigger at the same light touch, the Sea Glass switch provides a more substantial bottoming out experience. As such, those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged use might favor the KD200, while those seeking a stronger tactile feedback may opt for the Durock Sea Glass. Overall, the comparison highlights the balancing act between actuation and bottom out forces that users consider based on their unique preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we observe a distinct difference: the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sea Glass offers a slightly longer distance at 3.8 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, appealing to gamers who prefer the quicker response time associated with a reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the Sea Glass caters to those who favor a deeper press, which some users might find provides a more satisfying feel and a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for response speed versus key depth during use.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 noted for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which suggests it produces a sharper, more pronounced auditory feedback than many linear switches. This clackiness could provide an engaging typing experience for those who appreciate auditory responses while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a distinctly hollow sound signature, which lends itself to a quieter environment, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued auditory footprint while they type. This contrasting sound character may cater to different preferences, with the KD200 potentially better suited for those who enjoy a lively keypress sound, while the Sea Glass is ideal for users who favor a serene typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KD200's specific characteristics are not outlined, leaving its tactile experience somewhat ambiguous. Conversely, the Sea Glass switch is celebrated for its frictionless nature, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes resistance. Its mild and feathery touch ensures that users can type comfortably for extended periods, while the easy-to-press design allows for minimal exertion. As a result, the Sea Glass caters to those who prioritize comfort and ease, making it an inviting choice for both casual typing and longer sessions.
Overall, both the HMX KD200 and Durock Sea Glass linear switches showcase unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The KD200 stands out with its clacky sound profile, which may appeal to users looking for audio feedback during typing, while the Sea Glass excels in providing a smooth, frictionless feel, ideal for extended use. Depending on your priorities, whether it’s the engaging sound of the KD200 or the comfortable and quiet operation of the Sea Glass, you will find that both switches can offer satisfying typing experiences, albeit in very different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch with a lighter actuation force, the KD200, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, may be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound profile that resonates well during typing or gaming. This switch is particularly suited for those who appreciate a more tactile feedback and an overall engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch that offers a unique, airy typing experience with a distinct sound signature, then the Durock Sea Glass, featuring a 62-gram bottom-out force, could be your go-to option. The Sea Glass switches provide a frictionless feel that makes every keystroke almost effortless, which can reduce finger fatigue significantly during long typing sessions. Their mild and feathery characteristics, combined with their captivating pastel colors, further enhance their appeal, making them a great choice for both work and play. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects of typing and sound you value most, ensuring that you select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience best.
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