HMX Blue Topaz vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch both offer unique experiences for users. The HMX Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a breezy typing experience. Paired with its glittering housing and clacky sound signature, this switch offers a visually and audibly pleasing option for those who prefer easy-to-press switches. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White switch is beloved for its tactile feedback, delivering a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. With characteristics like a buttery feel, subtle tactility, and a low-pitched sound, this switch caters to those who appreciate a polished and stepped typing sensation. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Bluish White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through. However, while the top housings are the same, the nylon bottom housings differ between the two. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top.
In terms of sound and feel, the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Bluish White will offer different experiences based on their housing materials. The split between the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing means that each switch will have a unique combination of sharpness and fullness in sound. When typing on the Blue Topaz, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the nylon bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be affected by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White will have a similar split between the two housings, providing a distinct typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Bluish White play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the TTC Bluish White. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Blue Topaz or a rounder sound with the Bluish White, the combination of these housing materials will result in a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light force requirements. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Bluish White make it marginally heavier than the Blue Topaz. However, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Blue Topaz switch offers slightly more key travel compared to the Bluish White switch. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key travel depth - with the Blue Topaz offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth, while the Bluish White provides a shorter travel distance for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy, adding a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the crisp clackiness of the Blue Topaz or the deeper tones of the Bluish White.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch boasts an easy-to-press nature, which requires minimal force to activate and provides a smooth typing experience. This switch is known for its lightweight feel that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a buttery typing sensation, characterized by a seamless and uniform keystroke experience. With a mild and stepped feel, this switch provides a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for a wide range of users.
Considering all the available information, those looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a lightweight feel and clacky sound signature may prefer the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch. On the other hand, users seeking a tactile switch with a buttery and mild typing sensation, accompanied by low-pitched sound tones, may find the TTC Bluish White tactile switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a buttery and mild feel, the Bluish White switch might be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value smoothness and lightness or prefer a more tactile and poppy typing experience. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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