HMX Blue Topaz vs. Aflion Blush
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Blush switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Blush, both linear switches. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and light feel, making typing effortless. With its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature, it offers both visual appeal and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Blush switch from Aflion boasts a longer, two-stage spring that provides a smooth, full, and snappy typing experience. Additionally, its long pole creates a poppy sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. While the Blue Topaz is known for being easy to press and clacky, the Blush is characterized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and Aflion Blush switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The differentiating factor comes in their bottom housings, with the Blue Topaz using nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Blush also utilizes nylon for a similar effect.
While both switches share the same top housing material, the Blue Topaz distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blush. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of sound production, the top housing material plays a significant role when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material affects the sound and feel upon pressing down. While both the Blue Topaz and Blush switches offer similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the distinction lies in the bottom housing material. Whether it's nylon in the Blue Topaz for a deeper sound or nylon in the Blush for a similar effect, each housing material contributes unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush is the heavier option, with a bottom out force of 58 grams. The actuation force of the Blush is not specified, but it can be assumed to be higher than the Blue Topaz due to the higher bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Blue Topaz providing a lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Blush offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more keypress depth compared to the Blush. Gamers might appreciate the Blue Topaz for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a more deliberate keypress. On the other hand, the Blush offers a shorter travel distance, which can be favored by those seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, offering a balance between depth and quickness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound signature, providing users with a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switch presents a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches give distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing an easy-to-press experience, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation that feels like gliding fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can cater to different typing preferences and hand comforts.
In conclusion, while the Blue Topaz linear switch boasts a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. Depending on one's preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can elevate the typing experience. It's worth noting that individual preferences, alongside factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, can play a crucial role in determining the overall satisfaction with either switch. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and smooth typing experience with either the Blue Topaz or the Aflion Blush linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Blush linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light actuation force and a super smooth typing experience with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a silky smooth, creamy typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the Aflion Blush could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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