HMX KD200 vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX KD200 and HMX SU linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics and sound profiles. The KD200 is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, providing a pronounced auditory feedback that can elevate the typing experience for those who enjoy a more expressive sound. In contrast, the HMX SU switches offer a more subdued acoustic experience with their full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that caters to users who prefer a quieter, smooth typing feel. Both switches are linear, ensuring a seamless keypress without any tactile bumps, making them appealing for gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on personal preference for sound intensity and typing feel; 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and HMX SU share a significant similarity in their use of nylon for both the top and bottom switch housings. This material choice has become a hallmark of high-quality switch design due to its unique acoustic properties. The nylon construction is inherently softer than many other plastics, allowing it to absorb sound rather than reflecting it, which contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This quality is consistent across both models, leading to a satisfying keypress that emphasizes a duller, rounder sound profile—ideal for those who appreciate a more muted acoustic feedback while typing.
While both the HMX KD200 and HMX SU utilize nylon for their housings, any differences in their specific designs would primarily impact the overall typing experience when engaging with the key switches. Yet, because both models employ the same material—nylon—it can be anticipated that the results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback will be notably similar. The characteristics that nylon imparts can create a harmonious typing experience; the softness of the material aids in sound absorption, leading to a consistent auditory feedback that has proven effective in enhancing user enjoyment.
However, it is essential to consider that the tactile and auditory qualities of the two switches could still vary slightly based on other design factors, such as the internal mechanisms or spring styles employed, even though they share the same housing material. When taking into account the effect of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel versus the role of the top housing during key release, any distinctive design elements will play a crucial role in maximizing the potential of each switch. Overall, both the HMX KD200 and HMX SU promise a rich typing experience through their identical nylon constructions, ensuring that users can expect a high degree of consistency in sound and tactile response across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both exhibit identical actuation and bottom out forces, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity suggests that users will experience the same feel when pressing down to register a keystroke on either switch, resulting in a light typing experience suitable for prolonged use in both work and gaming environments. Consequently, typists and gamers who prefer lighter switches for comfort during extended sessions will find both options appealing. Since both switches have the same specifications, they offer equivalent performance in terms of force required to actuate and bottom out, ensuring that users can expect similar results regardless of their choice between the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it's clear that the two options cater to different preferences. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SU has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you opt for the KD200, you'll experience a marginally shorter key press compared to the SU, which may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response time for gaming or fast typing. Conversely, the SU's longer travel distance can provide a more robust feel, making it potentially more satisfying for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, choosing the shorter KD200 may lead to a snappier experience, while the SU offers a more pronounced depth, which can be favorable for those who favor a more tactile feedback.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback when typing. This characteristic heightens the typing experience, giving a distinct tactile presence even though it's classified as a linear switch. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is noted for its full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which together produce a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. This may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfaction of each keystroke. It's important to note that the sound of both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so results can vary depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, the KD200 is not specifically described, but its clackiness suggests that it may offer a more pronounced tactile response that could enhance the overall typing sensation. The HMX SU, on the other hand, is also not detailed in terms of feel, but its deeper sound profile could imply a smooth yet rich typing experience. The characteristics of these switches are tailored for different preferences, with the KD200 potentially providing more feedback than the SU, even though both are from the same linear switch classification.
Ultimately, both the HMX KD200 and HMX SU linear switches cater to various typing preferences, with the KD200 appealing to those who enjoy a clackier sound and a likely more tactile feel, while the SU is suited for users who prefer a subtler auditory experience with potentially smooth keystrokes. While these switches share linear qualities, their unique sound profiles and assumption of feel characteristics allow users to choose based on their individual typing style and sound preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 and the HMX SU linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a lively and pronounced auditory feedback when you type, the KD200 is your go-to switch due to its clackier sound profile, which can create an engaging and satisfying typing experience. Its lightweight actuation force also makes it ideal for fast typists or gamers who want to achieve rapid key presses with ease. On the other hand, if you favor a more subdued and smoother typing experience, the HMX SU might be the better choice for you. Its deeper sound profile and full PA12 housing lend a refined touch to your keystrokes, providing a satisfying yet quieter environment for both work and gaming. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the ambiance you wish to create as you decide between these two excellent switches.
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