HMX KD200 vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and TTC Silent Brown both offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX KD200 is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, appealing to users who enjoy an audibly satisfying typing experience and linear response without tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value speed and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches are celebrated for their comfortable, tactile typing experience, featuring a light to medium level of resistance along with a satisfying rounded tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy while minimizing sound — perfect for quieter environments or shared spaces. Each switch has its strengths, whether you're drawn to the KD200's clacky feedback or the muted polish of the Silent Brown, which allows for a more nuanced tactile feeling. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the TTC Silent Brown, notable distinctions in sound profile and tactile feel emerge due to their differing top housing materials. The KD200 employs a nylon top housing, a choice known for yielding a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. In stark contrast, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characteristically stiffer. This stiffness results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, providing a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect significantly different acoustic outcomes depending on the switch they choose.
Despite the differences in their upper housing materials, both the KD200 and Silent Brown switches share nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality ensures a consistent foundation in terms of sound quality, as both switches produce that signature deeper and fuller sound when bottomed out. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the tactile sensation and the overall feel of each switch. Although the KD200 and Silent Brown diverge in top housing materials, the shared nylon in their bases creates a level of consistency that can minimize perceived differences in sound and feel when the keys are actuated.
Ultimately, the interplay between the two different top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom housing means that while the sound profile will vary with the KD200’s softer, rounder tones and the Silent Brown’s crisper pitches, there are still similarities that users can count on. The bottom housing's nylon reinforces the fuller sound signature and tactile feedback when the switches are pressed down. Therefore, both switches can achieve satisfying typing experiences with their complements in nylon, despite the divergences in acoustic nuance born from their choice of top housing materials. This alignment in foundational material fosters a familiar feel, ensuring users can find comfort whether they choose the deep resonance of the KD200 or the clear sound of the Silent Brown.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we observe notable differences in their bottom out forces despite having identical actuation forces. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams to register a keystroke, which means typists can expect a similar ease of triggering with both. However, the bottom out force of the KD200 is 50 grams, making it lighter compared to the TTC Silent Brown, which has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that while both switches feel similar during the initial actuation, the KD200 offers a lighter overall experience when bottoming out, making it a preferable option for those who value prolonged typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. Conversely, the Silent Brown provides a heavier bottom out force, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback during their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find that they differ significantly. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the KD200 would be the better choice, as it allows for quicker key actuation favored by gamers. Conversely, the Silent Brown, with its greater travel distance, provides a more tactile and hearty depth that some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a deeper, more nuanced feedback when pressing the keys.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 linear switch is the clackiest member of its family, ensuring a prominent auditory feedback that can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is characterized by a muted sound profile, designed to minimize the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. This softer, quieter operation makes the Silent Brown ideal for quieter settings like offices or shared spaces. In contrast, the KD200’s clacky nature would be more suitable for personal setups where the sound can be appreciated without concern for disturbing others.
Regarding feel, the KD200 does not have a specified tactile quality mentioned, but one can infer that as a linear switch, it provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump that interrupts the fluid motion. The TTC Silent Brown, however, offers a well-rounded tactile experience with a light-medium resistance and a satisfying bump during activation. Users can expect a sensation described as buttery, mild, and polished, leading to a smoother and more refined typing experience. This combination makes the Silent Brown easy to type on for extended periods, while the KD200 would appeal more to those who prefer an uninterrupted linear action.
In summary, choosing between the HMX KD200 and TTC Silent Brown switches hinges largely on your sound preferences and typing experience. If you appreciate a loud and assertive typing sound and prefer a linear feel, the KD200 would be your choice. Conversely, if you seek a quieter, more tactile experience with a smoother keystroke, the Silent Brown would serve you well. Each switch offers distinct advantages, making them suitable for different user preferences and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch should be guided by your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound profile, and you often type quickly or enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, the KD200 is an excellent option. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it ideal for fast typing or gaming, allowing for a responsive feel under your fingers. On the other hand, if you seek a quieter and more refined typing experience, the Silent Brown switch stands out with its muted sound profile and a tactile bump. The 63.5 grams of force provides a medium-heavy resistance that results in a buttery smooth typing sensation, making these switches well-suited for long typing sessions or office environments where noise control is essential. Ultimately, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, as well as your tactile and auditory preferences, to make the best choice between these distinct switch types.
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