HMX KD200 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and TTC Speed Silver both offer unique characteristics appealing to different user preferences. The KD200, known as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, provides an engaging auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. Its linear nature allows for smooth key presses without tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a pronounced sound while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is engineered for speed, catering to gamers and fast typists alike with its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance, facilitating quick and effortless actuation. While the Speed Silver boasts a polished sound profile for a more subdued auditory experience, both switches deliver a linear feel that emphasizes seamless keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize a lively auditory response or a rapid 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The HMX KD200 and the TTC Speed Silver offer distinct experiences through their choice of materials, particularly in their top housings. The KD200's top housing is crafted from nylon, a material known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Consequently, this design choice absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder, less sharp auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This difference translates to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, providing typing that is both clear and resonant. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate in the Speed Silver lends itself well to showcasing RGB lighting, making it an appealing choice for visually-oriented users.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, however, they share a similarity: both utilize nylon. This alignment means that both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. The softness of the nylon material in the bottom housing ensures that it absorbs sound effectively, yielding a dampened auditory output. As a result, despite the differences in the top housings, the bottom-out feel and sound produced by both the HMX KD200 and TTC Speed Silver are likely to feel reminiscent and harmonious, focusing on that rounder and warmer sound that comes from nylon.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials used in the top housings of the KD200 and Speed Silver lead to differing auditory experiences, but the shared nylon bottoms harmonize these differences for a cohesive performance. Users may appreciate the unique sound signature derived from each switch's top housing while still enjoying the deep and muted qualities introduced by the nylon bottoms. Thus, while the overall typing experience is affected by the unique combination of materials, both switches can bring satisfaction to users looking for a well-rounded sound profile, especially during the bottoming out phase.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will provide a similar typing feel during the initial keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the KD200 having a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Speed Silver reaches a slightly heavier 55 grams when fully pressed down. This difference in bottom out force indicates that while both switches are equally light in terms of actuation, the Speed Silver offers a somewhat heavier and potentially more substantial feel at the bottom of the keystroke, which some users might prefer for added feedback. Overall, the KD200 is the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue, whereas the Speed Silver may cater to those seeking a firmer resistance at the bottom for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch boasts a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm positions the KD200 as the option that provides a deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's shorter travel distance may cater more to gamers and users who prioritize rapid response times and sharper keystrokes. While both switches are designed for efficiency and performance, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference regarding key travel depth and responsiveness.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 distinguishes itself as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which likely contributes to a more pronounced audio feedback that may appeal to those who enjoy an expressive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver features a neutral sound profile, striking a balance that makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The sound level of the Speed Silver is moderate, catering to both newcomers and seasoned users who seek a less intrusive auditory presence while typing. It's essential to keep in mind that the sound characteristics of any switch can also be influenced by external factors, such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used, yet the KD200’s clackiness and the Speed Silver's neutral tone present distinct auditory experiences.
Regarding feel, the KD200's specific tactile characteristics aren't explicitly defined here, but it is often assumed that a clackier switch might provide a more noticeable tactile feedback during actuation. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver is classified as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience that lies comfortably within a middle-ground zone. This smooth and refined feel ensures reduced friction with each key press, making it ideal for users who prioritize a fluid typing experience. The polished nature of these switches means they are likely to provide high satisfaction with minimal resistance, inviting a seamless interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 offers a clackier sound profile that might cater to enthusiasts of auditory feedback, the TTC Speed Silver presents a more neutral sound that accommodates various typing environments. When it comes to feel, the Speed Silver excels with its mild and polished characteristics, promoting a smoother typing experience, though the specific feel of the KD200 remains unspecified. Ultimately, while these switches provide distinct qualities, both can lead to satisfying typing experiences, allowing users to find the right match for their preferences depending on individual needs and settings.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a clackier sound profile and a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KD200 is an excellent choice, particularly if you enjoy a more tactile and expressive typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a fuller auditory feedback and don't mind the additional noise it brings, making it particularly suitable for a home environment. Conversely, if speed and precision are your top priorities, the TTC Speed Silver would likely be the better option. With its slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a reduced travel distance, this switch provides a faster and more effortless typing experience, making it a great fit for gamers or anyone who values quick keystrokes. Additionally, its neutral sound profile and mild, polished feel cater well to a variety of environments, from work to home. Thus, consider what aspects of your typing experience matter most to you; whether it’s the auditory feedback of the KD200 or the swift responsiveness of the Speed Silver will guide your decision.
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