Bsun Avocado vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and HMX Blue Topaz stand out for their unique characteristics. The Avocado is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with a responsive bump and a smooth downstroke. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering an easy-to-press typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound. While the Avocado is accented and sharp, the Blue Topaz is easy-to-press and clacky. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the HMX Blue Topaz utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality, making it an ideal material for creating switches with RGB lighting capabilities. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more aesthetically pleasing look, enhancing the overall appeal of the switches.
In terms of their bottom housing, both the Avocado and the Blue Topaz opt for nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that appeals to those looking for a more muted typing experience. This contrast in material between the top and bottom housing helps to distribute the unique qualities of each material throughout the switch, impacting the overall sound and feel when typing.
Overall, while the Avocado and Blue Topaz differ in their choice of materials for the top and bottom housing, they both aim to create switches with distinct sound profiles. The Avocado's combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing delivers a balance of sharpness and depth in sound. Similarly, the Blue Topaz's use of the same materials provides a consistent experience, catering to users who prefer a crisper sound on key press and a fuller sound on release. Whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. The Avocado also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Blue Topaz has a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Avocado switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Blue Topaz switch is lighter and may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have different weight profiles, with the Avocado being medium-heavy and the Blue Topaz being light. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, the Avocado has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Blue Topaz's 3.9 mm. This means that the Avocado will have a slightly quicker actuation time and may be more preferred by those looking for a faster response. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz offers a bit more depth in the key press, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable for longer typing sessions. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will ultimately provide a similar typing experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in actuation speed and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 Avocado switch presents a mild, neutral sound profile that won't distract or disrupt your typing flow. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz switch is known for its clacky sound signature, adding an element of percussive delight to your typing experience. Both switches offer distinctive auditory characteristics that can enhance the overall typing ambiance, with the Avocado providing a more subtle sound backdrop while the Blue Topaz offers a more lively and crisp sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Avocado switch offers an invigorating typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump that is sharp and snappy. This creates a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still provides satisfying feedback with each keypress. In contrast, the Blue Topaz switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Avocado switch is best suited for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, while the Blue Topaz switch is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and smoother actuation.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel. While the Avocado switch provides a refreshing and tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Blue Topaz switch stands out for its smooth actuation and clacky sound signature. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and typing ease, both switches offer distinct advantages that can cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the Avocado and Blue Topaz switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate pronounced tactility with a snappy and responsive bump, then the Avocado switch is the way to go. The Avocado offers a satisfying tactile experience without overwhelming feedback and a mild, neutral sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and value a super smooth actuation with a lightweight feel, then the Blue Topaz switch is a great choice. The Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for tactility, bottom out force, sound, and typing feel.
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