HMX KD200 vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the HMX KD200 and the Jwick Taro mechanical keyboard switches, users will find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics each switch brings to the table. The HMX KD200 is celebrated for being the clackiest switch within the HMX Film switch family, offering an exhilarating linear experience that prioritizes smooth key presses without any tactile feedback. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers or typists who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes and a swift response time. Conversely, the Jwick Taro, with its aesthetically pleasing subdued color scheme, provides a cozy tactile experience, characterized by a snappy, medium level of tactility alongside acute and crisp clacks. This makes it appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging typing sensation while still benefiting from a quiet environment. Each switch caters to different preferences—whether it's the uninterrupted smoothness of the KD200 or the tactile satisfaction of the Taro—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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
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 Taro, a distinct difference emerges in their choice of top housing. The KD200 utilizes nylon as its top housing material, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic qualities, which absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a mellower auditory experience. Conversely, the Taro employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which provides a sharper, crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer composition contributes to a more resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a brighter acoustical signature, particularly in a setup involving RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, while the KD200 emphasizes a rich sound, the Taro focuses on clarity and brightness.
In terms of bottom housing, both the KD200 and the Taro share an identical material: nylon. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel, which significantly influence typing experience, will exhibit the same deep and rounded characteristics in both switches. Both switches, therefore, will deliver a similar tactile and auditory feedback at the point of actuation, reinforcing the classic essence of nylon's acoustic properties. This shared bottom housing material is advantageous in providing consistency in typing experience, regardless of the differences in the top housing.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials lead to a nuanced contrast in sound profiles between the two switches, whereas the similarity in the bottom housing fosters a unified typing experience. Users seeking a warm, enveloping sound will find the KD200's nylon top housing complements its nylon base, while those preferring a more pronounced and crisp sound will appreciate the Taro's polycarbonate top paired with its nylon bottom. Despite the variation in top housing materials, the switches will yield comparable results in terms of bottom-out feel, illustrating how the interplay of different materials can cater to diverse preferences in keyboard acoustics and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Jwick Taro does not specify an actuation force, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating that it provides a more substantial physical feedback upon keystroke. This difference suggests that the Taro switch may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Overall, while the KD200 is the lighter option with less resistance during typing, the Taro's heavier bottom out force gives it a distinctly different and firmer feel, likely favoring users who prefer tactile feedback in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX KD200 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter of the two, providing a slightly quicker response time that may appeal to gamers seeking a more responsive experience. Conversely, the Taro’s 3.7 mm travel distance offers a deeper feel, which could be more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial bottom-out sensation when pressing a key. Overall, while both switches provide respectable travel distances, the KD200 caters to those who value speed and brevity, whereas the Taro is suited for users desiring that extra depth in their key presses.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 switch stands out as the clackiest option within its family, offering a pronounced audio feedback that can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a more audible typing experience. This trait makes it ideal for environments where the sound of keystrokes is welcomed or desired. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches provide a more nuanced auditory output characterized by acute and crisp clacks, while maintaining a neutral sound profile. This balance allows for versatility, making these switches suitable for both beginners and more experienced typists, regardless of whether they’re working from home or in a more professional setting.
When discussing feel, the KD200's specifics are not detailed, so it remains unknown how it compares to other switches in terms of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Taro switches are noted for their buttery smoothness, which translates to a fluid typing experience that feels effortless. Coupled with a stepped tactile sensation, Taro switches offer a distinct two-stage feedback that can be appreciated by users who prefer a milder yet still engaging tactile response. This blend of smoothness and defined tactility makes the Taro an ideal choice for those seeking comfort combined with feedback during typing.
In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 is celebrated for its loud and engaging sound profile, the Jwick Taro switches are defined by their smooth feel and crisp yet neutral sound. The choice ultimately depends on a user’s preference for auditory feedback versus a more subdued yet tactile typing experience. For those who favor a pronounced sound, the KD200 should be appealing, whereas users seeking a cozy and comfortable feel with sufficient tactile feedback will likely gravitate towards the Taro. In either case, understanding these unique qualities can help inform a more satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environments in which you will be using them. If you lean towards a lighter touch with a clackier sound profile, the KD200 would be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy a more playful and noisy typing experience. This switch's 50-gram bottom-out force makes it easy to press, which can be particularly advantageous for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued yet satisfying tactile feedback, the Taro switch is a great option. Its medium-heavy feel and "buttery" keystroke provide a smooth typing experience, making it well-suited for extended writing sessions or office use where you might want a bit of feedback without excessive noise. Moreover, the Taro's crisp clacks add a touch of auditory enjoyment without overwhelming those around you. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value a lighter, more dynamic switch or a solid, tactile experience with a balanced sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
