HMX KD200 vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Gateron Weightlessness represent two distinct approaches that cater to different typing preferences. The KD200, known as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivers a purely linear experience, characterized by its smooth keystrokes and audible clack, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer rapid, uninterrupted key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness stands out with its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump that enhances typing accuracy while maintaining a balanced sound profile—ideal for those who enjoy a tactile response without overwhelming noise. While both switches offer unique attributes beneficial for different use cases, your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the straight-line efficiency of a linear switch or the textured feedback of a tactile switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and the Gateron Weightlessness both utilize nylon as their housing material, which plays a crucial role in the switches' auditory and tactile characteristics. With nylon being a classic switch housing material, both switches are designed to offer a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is primarily due to nylon's relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics; it is known for its ability to absorb sound. As a result, both switches inherently produce a duller and rounder sound, creating a consistent auditory experience. This similarity in housing material shows that users can expect comparable sound qualities when using either switch.
Diving into the bottom housing, both the KD200 and the Weightlessness again feature nylon, ensuring that the sound absorption properties found in the top housing are retained in the bottom as well. This continuity of material not only reinforces the switches' sound profiles but also contributes to a smoother and more pleasant typing experience. The softer nature of the nylon allows typists to enjoy a firm yet cushioned feel, helping to minimize any harsh bottom-out noises that might occur during heavy usage. Since the bottom housing significantly impacts both the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, typists can anticipate a consistent experience across both types of switches.
While the exact designs of the HMX KD200 and Gateron Weightlessness may differ in terms of aesthetics or ergonomics, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings guarantees similar acoustic and tactile results. The shared material enables users to enjoy an equivalent feel and sound profile, regardless of which switch they choose. For those who appreciate a softer sound and a full typing experience, both switches offer advantages by utilizing nylon, capturing the essence of how housing materials influence switch performance. This suggests that regardless of the particular model, enthusiasts can expect satisfaction from their typing experience by selecting either option.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation forces reveal distinct user experiences. The KD200 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer feel while typing. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is not provided, which leaves some ambiguity in assessing its overall force profile. Consequently, the KD200 is the lighter option, while the Weightlessness, with its higher actuation force, provides a more substantial typing experience. Overall, users looking for a lighter touch will gravitate towards the KD200, while those preferring a stronger push should consider the Weightlessness switch despite the unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Weightlessness measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the KD200 the longer option of the two. For users who favor quicker responses, the Weightlessness switch could be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which may cater well to fast-paced gaming. However, those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience might lean towards the KD200, as its additional millimeter offers a more substantial feel. Ultimately, while both switches provide a decent travel distance for different preferences, the choice between them depends on whether one values responsiveness over a more pronounced keystroke 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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 is characterized as the clackiest option within the HMX Film switch family, which suggests it produces a loud and sharp auditory feedback with each keystroke. This clacky sound can add a satisfying acoustic element to typing, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory cue. Meanwhile, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile feel, producing a subtle to moderate sound that is less intrusive than the clack of the KD200. This sound profile suits users who prefer a quieter typing experience while still retaining some audible feedback.
When considering the feel of these switches, the KD200 is known for its smooth and linear action, providing a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bumps. This lack of tactile feedback can be appealing for those who favor a fluid typing experience, allowing for rapid key presses without the interruption of tactile resistance. On the other hand, the Weightlessness switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feel, providing a gentle bump during activation. This tactile bump serves as a cue for users who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing, allowing for a more engaged experience without being overly firm or disruptive.
In summary, the HMX KD200 linear switch and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch each present distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different user preferences. The KD200 excels in producing a clacky sound, suited for those who relish auditory feedback, combined with a smooth linear feel for fluid typing. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch provides a more balanced auditory experience with a subtle tactile feel, ideal for users who appreciate a gentle tactile sensation without excessive noise. Users can choose based on their auditory and tactile preferences, as these qualities significantly influence the overall experience of using mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch should be guided by your personal typing preferences and the environment where you'll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a light actuation force paired with a unique auditory experience, the KD200 stands out as a great option. Known for its pronounced clackiness, this switch offers a playful and engaging auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find exhilarating. However, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile combined with a tactile experience, the Gateron Weightlessness switch may be the better choice for you. With its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, it provides a satisfying yet quiet typing experience, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, consider what type of feedback you value – whether it’s the sonic excitement of the KD200 or the refined tactile feel of the Weightlessness – and align it with your usage scenario for the most satisfactory keyboard experience.
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