HMX KD200 vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Gateron Silent Ink Black both present compelling options for those who prefer linear switches, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing experiences. The KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke noise. Conversely, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers an excellent solution for quieter environments, providing a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel that significantly reduces typing sound while maintaining a smooth actuation. While the KD200 is ideal for those seeking a lively typing experience, the Silent Ink Black excels in scenarios where noise reduction is paramount, ensuring a polished and muted performance. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it becomes evident that the two switches diverge in their choice of materials. The KD200 utilizes classic nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is known for its sound-dampening qualities. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb vibrations effectively, leading to a deeper, fuller sound profile that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron’s proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, a material that produces a higher-pitched and more pointed sound. This INK blend is designed to create a clacky sound profile, which differs significantly from the dampened sound produced by nylon.
Despite these differences, both switches are engineered to deliver distinct auditory experiences that reflect the materials used in their housings. HMX KD200's nylon contributes to a more thudding noise, ideal for those who prefer a sound that is subdued yet rich. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's blend aims to offer a more agile sound profile that is sharp and stimulating. While the KD200 will provide users with a fuller bottom-out sound aiding in a cushiony typing experience, the Silent Ink Black will elicit a punchier feedback when a key is released, highlighting its crisper acoustic signature. The contrast in sound profiles illustrates how different manufacturing materials can considerably influence user experience and satisfaction.
Ultimately, both switches possess unique characteristics driven by their housing materials, which impact the overall typing experience. While the nylon in the KD200 offers sound absorption and a deep thump, the proprietary INK blend of the Silent Ink Black promotes a bright and lively sound. However, the fundamental functionality in terms of responsiveness remains intact, allowing users to appreciate the tactile feedback each switch provides. Most importantly, if one were to seek similar auditory results, it would involve focusing on the balance between pressing and releasing actions, where each switch can provide an enjoyable experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier resistance provides a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Overall, if you seek a lighter switch for comfort over long periods, the KD200 would be the way to go, whereas if you enjoy a firmer push that gives you feedback with each keystroke, the Silent Ink Black would be the better choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Ink Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive, quicker actuation, which is especially favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, caters to users who enjoy a more tactile experience, providing a sense of depth that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness and depth.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 HMX KD200 switch produces a distinctly loud and clacky sound profile, making it the most acoustically prominent option within the HMX Film switch family. This layered auditory feedback can be satisfying for users who prefer a more traditional and engaging typing experience, as it delivers that inherent mechanical keyboard sound that many enthusiasts seek. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is characterized by its notably muted sound output, which effectively diminishes the typical clatter associated with mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for those requiring a quieter typing environment, such as in shared workspaces or while gaming late at night. The design of the Silent Ink Black specifically caters to minimizing audio feedback without sacrificing the tactile enjoyment of typing.
When examining feel, the KD200 offers an experience that is more akin to the classic mechanical switch sensation, likely with a dynamic response that caters to those who appreciate a bouncier, more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is celebrated for delivering a silky and polished typing experience, allowing for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance. These characteristics enable users to glide effortlessly over keys, enhancing overall comfort and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The combination of the silky feel and the cushy bottom-out experience ensures that the Silent Ink Black provides a refined typing surface that many find appealing, especially for longer tasks.
In summary, choosing between the HMX KD200 and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches can significantly impact your typing experience, depending on your sound and feel preferences. The KD200 excels in auditory feedback, appealing to those who favor a louder and clackier output. Meanwhile, the Silent Ink Black is tailored for a quieter atmosphere while providing a smooth, polished feel with its cushy bottom-out. As such, both switches offer unique qualities, catering to different user environments and preferences. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in satisfying results; you simply need to decide which auditory and tactile experiences align with your typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch hinges on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a more tactile and audible experience while typing, the KD200 is an excellent choice with its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile. This makes it particularly appealing for casual typing and gaming scenarios where auditory feedback enhances the experience. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a quieter environment—whether it be an office setting or shared living space—the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a much more subdued auditory experience, thanks to its muted sound and silky, polished feel. This switch has a heavier actuation force that provides a satisfying, cushioned bottom-out experience while minimizing noise. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits, whether you prioritize a lively sound profile or a serene, smooth operation.
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