HMX Blue Topaz vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh Box Navy offer unique typing experiences. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a breeze-like typing experience. Its glittering housing adds a touch of visual appeal, while the clacky sound signature enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy is a clicky switch that caters to those who prefer a heavier typing experience with a distinctive sound and tactile feedback. If you enjoy the crunchiness and stiffness reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, the Box Navy switches are the way to go. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
90g
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 Kailh Box Navy switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities in top housing material, the Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Box Navy's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. With the Blue Topaz and Box Navy switches, this means that the Blue Topaz will provide a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key due to its nylon bottom housing, while both switches will offer a sharp and crisp sound when releasing the key because of their polycarbonate top housings.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and Kailh Box Navy switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Box Navy's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. These differences highlight the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience and demonstrate how variations in material composition can lead to distinct auditory feedback for the user.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter while the Box Navy is heavier. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Box Navy requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Blue Topaz would be the better choice. However, if a stronger push feel is desired, the Box Navy would be the ideal option. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs of users.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feeling when pressed compared to the Box Navy. However, the difference of 0.3 mm is relatively small, so in practical terms, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable during everyday use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the specific feel and response of the switch.
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 Navy 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, along with a crunchy texture reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer the more sharp and percussive sound of the Blue Topaz or the immersive and crunchy sound of the Box Navy.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy switch provides a sharp and invigorating tactile sensation, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent with each keypress. Additionally, the Box Navy switch is noted for its stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force compared to the Blue Topaz. Depending on whether you prefer a light and easy press or a sharp and invigorating feedback, your choice between the two switches may vary.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound signature, perfect for those looking for a comfortable and visually appealing switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a heavy typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound, the Blue Topaz and Box Navy switches both offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the Blue Topaz switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying clicky sound, the Box Navy switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences. Remember, the perfect switch is the one that enhances your typing experience and brings you joy every time you use it.
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