HMX KD200 vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboards, the type of switch can significantly influence your typing experience and sound profile. The HMX KD200 is known for being the clackiest option within the HMX Film switch family, offering a distinctly audible feedback that many users find satisfying, especially in a gaming or typing environment where auditory cues matter. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat also features a linear design but is distinguished by its Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by a more resonant sound profile. While the KD200 may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response during use, the Tomcat caters to those who prioritize a seamless feel with a subtler sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Bsun Tomcat, it is evident that they employ different top housing materials while sharing similarities in their bottom housing construction. The KD200 features a nylon top housing, which contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the material's softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound experience characterized by a duller and rounder quality. In contrast, the Tomcat's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate’s stiffer characteristics, which enhance clarity and resonance, creating a more vibrant auditory experience. The aesthetic appeal of polycarbonate is also worth noting, particularly when considering RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced light diffusion.

While the top housings of the HMX KD200 and Bsun Tomcat differ significantly in material, both models employ nylon for the bottom housing. This shared choice means that when typing, users will experience a deeper tonal quality from both switches when the keyboard bottoms out. The nylon's ability to absorb sound presents a similar, fuller auditory response during key presses, imparting a degree of consistency between the switches despite their contrasting top materials. This commonality allows users to enjoy a comparable typing experience at the base of each switch while differing experiences may emerge when evaluating the sounds during key release.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in both the KD200 and Tomcat creates a nuanced typing experience that showcases their individual characteristics. The divergent top housings influence the sound profile during key release, where the Tomcat may provide a more pronounced and clear sound, while the KD200 delivers a more muffled and enveloping auditory tapestry. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches contribute a similar depth to the sound during actuation, merging their unique top profiles through their common base. Users can, therefore, enjoy the best of both worlds, harnessing the distinct qualities of each while benefiting from a consistent foundational acoustic experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we observe some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the effort needed to trigger a keystroke, which is favorable for users seeking light switches for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the KD200 having a bottom out force of 50 grams and the Tomcat at 54 grams. This indicates that the Tomcat switch provides a heavier feel at the bottom of the keypress, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while both switches share the same actuation force, the KD200 is lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force, offering a smoother typing experience, whereas the Tomcat, with its increased bottom out force, can provide a firmer feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This means that the Tomcat switch offers a marginally deeper feel when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience as they bottom out. Conversely, the shorter travel of the KD200 may be more appealing to gamers or those seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, if you lean towards a preference for a more responsive key press, the KD200 might be the better choice, whereas the Tomcat could be favored for its fuller depth in keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX KD200 switch is known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. Its sound profile is characterized by a higher-pitched, resonant quality that produces pronounced auditory feedback with every keystroke, effectively making typing an engaging experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is designed to produce a smooth and relatively muted sound, contributing to a quieter typing environment. While the Tomcat may not be as loud as the KD200, its sound is still satisfying and may appeal to those who prefer a more subtle auditory profile. It's important to note that the overall sound experience can vary based on the choice of keyboard, keycap material, and construction.

When it comes to feel, the KD200 is recognized for providing a tactile experience that can be both responsive and dynamic, suited for typists who enjoy feedback with each press. This engaging feel can enhance productivity for those who like a bit of resistance in their typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch emphasizes a super smooth typing experience due to its Ly stems, making it exceptional for fast typists or gamers seeking a streamlined keypress without any tactile bumps or interruptions. This smoothness can be particularly advantageous for extended typing sessions or rapid inputs.

In conclusion, while the HMX KD200 and Bsun Tomcat switches each offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. The KD200 provides a lively and resonant sound alongside a more tactile feel, capturing the spirit of traditional mechanical switches, whereas the Tomcat stands out for its whisper-quiet operation and smoothness, ideal for those who prioritize a stealthier typing experience. If you enjoy both sides of the spectrum, your keyboard setup with either switch can reflect similar qualities, allowing you to tailor your experience to fit your style and needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch should ultimately reflect your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy the distinct "clackiness" that the KD200 offers, particularly if you appreciate a more resonant sound, this switch may be your best option. It's especially suited for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing, making it a great choice for both gaming and casual use where you want to keep things dynamic. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smoother and more refined typing experience, the Tomcat's Ly stems are designed for just that, with a balanced medium-light actuation force that still provides agility while minimizing fatigue during extended use. The Tomcat’s sound profile is more subdued and less distracting, making it ideal for an office or shared environment where noise could be an issue. Ultimately, consider what aligns best with your typing style and use case, whether you lean towards the energizing feedback of the KD200 or the buttery smoothness of the Tomcat.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more