HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron CAP Anniversary stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering a breezy typing experience with a visually appealing glittery housing and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary boasts exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, resulting in reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. While the Blue Topaz is known for being easy to press and clacky, the CAP Anniversary is described as snappy, creamy, and polished. Both switches have their own unique strengths that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the overall typing experience may vary depending on the other housing materials used.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the CAP Anniversary utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder typist experience. While the top housing may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of each keystroke. As such, the switch's overall sound profile will be influenced by a combination of the top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper sound profile and RGB compatibility, as well as nylon in the bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. While they may share similar housing materials, the unique combination of materials in each switch may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for the specific sound profile and typing experience desired.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. 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 typing experience. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary is heavier, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This indicates that the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a different typing experience. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter typing experience would find the Blue Topaz to be a suitable option, while those seeking a heavier force would lean towards the CAP Anniversary.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the CAP Anniversary with its slightly longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the feel of the keypress and the desired level of 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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
The Blue Topaz linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound when pressed, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is sure to please users who enjoy a satisfying keystroke sound. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch's sound quality is unknown, as it is not specified in the provided information. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz is designed with an easy-to-press feature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate each keystroke. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a super responsive and smooth typing experience due to its aerodynamic stem design and enlarged hollowed-out stem post.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a clacky sound signature and a lightweight feel that makes typing a breeze, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch caters to users looking for an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience with unique aerodynamic features. Both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and ease of typing with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Topaz and the CAP Anniversary switch will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and design aesthetics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, you should consider your preference for keyboard feel and sound. If you value a light actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a snappy or creamy typing experience, the CAP Anniversary switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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