HMX Blue Topaz vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Jade stand out for their unique characteristics. The Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with an easy-to-press experience that is complemented by a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Box Jade clicky switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crisp clicks, along with crunchy tactile bumps for added tactility. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a smooth and visually appealing typing experience, the Box Jade stands out for its invigorating clicks and distinctive tactile feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Jade both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, despite these similarities in top housing material, the Blue Topaz and the Box Jade differ in their bottom housings.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Blue Topaz and the Box Jade utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this characteristic, the differences in their top housing materials may influence the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Jade showcases a split in qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing material is more pronounced during the key press and bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the Box Jade is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Topaz may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to press the keys. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Box Jade may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide unique benefits, with the Blue Topaz offering a lighter touch and the Box Jade providing a more tactile and satisfying push feel. 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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Box Jade switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Topaz switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and response time.
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 Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch produces a high-pitched, crisp sound profile with crunchy tactile bumps, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Depending on individual preferences, the Blue Topaz may appeal to users who enjoy a clacky sound, while the Box Jade is suitable for those who prefer a higher-pitched, clicky sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required to activate the switch. This lightweight feel enhances typing comfort, reduces finger fatigue, and provides a responsive, low-impact typing experience. Conversely, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is described as accented, providing a medium tactile experience with a noticeable amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. Users can expect an invigorating typing sensation with firm actuation force and snappy feedback when using the Box Jade.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel for a smooth typing experience, the Box Jade stands out with its high-pitched clicks and medium tactile feedback for a more invigorating typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound profile and tactile feel, both switches can deliver similar levels of satisfaction in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound profile, then the Blue Topaz is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade switch is more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a lighter, easier-to-press feel or a more accented and invigorating typing sensation. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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