HMX KD200 vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, known for its pronounced auditory feedback, making it an excellent choice for users who revel in a tactile and audible typing sensation. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear represents innovation in the linear switch market, providing an incredibly silky smooth experience with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still delivering a clacky bottom-out noise. This makes the Semi-Silent Linear ideal for those who prefer a quieter operation without sacrificing the satisfying auditory cues. Both switches have their distinct advantages, depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound or a balance between quiet typing and responsive feedback. 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
N/A
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
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant audio signature, making each keystroke feel more pronounced. This fundamental difference in materials suggests that users will experience divergent auditory qualities when typing on each switch, despite both being designed for performance.
On the other hand, both the KD200 and the Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This similarity in material leads to a unified sound experience on the lower half of the switches, as nylon’s properties ensure a deeper and fuller acoustic output. The consistency of nylon between the two switches means that when it comes to bottoming out, both switches will offer a comparable feel and sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Consequently, while the top housing materials diverge in contributing to distinct sound profiles, the shared nylon composition in the bottom housing bridges any sound inconsistencies, providing a familiar tactile feedback.
Overall, the combination of different materials in the top housing of the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear signifies how the two switches will cater to varying preferences in sound and feel. The KD200’s nylon top will envelop a typist in a warm soundscape, ideal for those who favor a more muffled acoustic signature. Meanwhile, the Jwick's polycarbonate top will appeal to users who desire clarity and definition in their keystrokes. However, due to the identical material choice for the bottom housing, both switches will achieve remarkable similarity in their bottom-out performance, showcasing how the material choices can converge and diverge to create unique yet comparable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal notable differences that cater to varying preferences in typing experiences. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prioritize extended typing sessions without fatigue. Its bottom out force reaches 50 grams, ensuring a responsive feel. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch lacks a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is notably higher at 62 grams, suggesting a firmer and more substantial feedback upon bottoming out. As a result, the KD200 is recognized as the lighter switch, favoring those who prefer less resistance, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear is heavier, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel during typing or gaming. Ultimately, those opting for the KD200 could expect a more effortless typing experience, while the added force of the Jwick switch may enhance tactile satisfaction for users who prefer substantial feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, the KD200 features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can have a significant impact on typing feel and responsiveness. For gamers or users who prefer quicker response times, the KD200's shorter travel distance might be more appealing, offering a snappier press. Conversely, the Semi-Silent Linear's extended travel distance could be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile experience, providing a deeper feel beneath the fingers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a more immediate response or a more substantial key press sensation.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 is known for being the clackiest in the HMX Film switch family, identifying it as having a pronounced, higher-pitched auditory profile that may appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy a more traditional, crisp mechanical typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a more subdued sound signature. It features a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out. This means that while it may not reach the same auditory peaks as the KD200, its overall sound remains more versatile, providing a balanced audio experience suitable for both professional and casual use without calling too much attention in quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the KD200's characteristics are notably less defined, leaving its tactile feedback somewhat ambiguous. However, the Semi-Silent Linear excels here, delivering a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience. This combination ensures that the key presses feel responsive and satisfying without the excessive harshness that some might perceive in other switches. The polished feel of the Semi-Silent Linear suggests that it provides a refined and smooth travel, making long typing sessions comfortable without any distracting friction or resistance during key presses.
Overall, while the HMX KD200 provides a clackier sound profile that may appeal to traditional mechanical keyboard aficionados, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a more nuanced and subdued auditory experience with a refined tactile feel. If you're a newcomer looking for a keyboard switch, you'll find that the KD200 will give you an engaging audio experience with a slightly undefined feel, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear balances sound and feel, catering to those who prefer a smoother, quieter interaction. Both switches will enhance your typing experience, albeit in distinct ways, allowing you to choose based on your specific preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a clackier sound profile while typing, the KD200, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, will likely resonate with you. This switch, known for its pronounced auditory feedback, is ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile and expressive typing experience, although it may not be the best choice for shared workspaces due to its noise. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that balances responsiveness with a quieter operation, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, with its medium 62 grams of bottom-out force, offers a superb blend of features. Its subtle sound profile, enhanced by a silky smooth feel, makes it suitable for both home and office use, allowing you to type away without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize expressive feedback or a tranquil typing experience, ensuring that the switch you choose aligns perfectly with your unique typing style and environment.
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