HMX Blue Topaz vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Crabapple both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, delivering a seamless typing experience with a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall satisfaction. On the other hand, the Crabapple switch, crafted entirely from POM, offers an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a distinct dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. While the Blue Topaz is easy-to-press and clacky, the Crabapple is frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HC Studio Crabapple offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Crabapple utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a unique and pleasing sound profile based on their respective top housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Topaz is equipped with a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Crabapple's POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, aligning with the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective materials.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Blue Topaz and the Crabapple results in distinct sound profiles that cater to specific preferences. While the Blue Topaz offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Crabapple provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, as both options offer unique qualities that enhance the overall user experience.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch both offer a light typing experience, with the Blue Topaz having an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing feel with minimal resistance, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. While the Crabapple has slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces, the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, whether you prefer the Blue Topaz or the Crabapple will come down to personal preference for the slight variation in force required for each switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The slightly longer travel distance of the Blue Topaz may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Crabapple, which could be beneficial for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, with the Blue Topaz being slightly longer than the Crabapple.
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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 and percussive sound signature that is sharp and satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch provides a more subdued and understated sound that is gentle and unobtrusive. Depending on personal preference, some users may appreciate the boldness of the Blue Topaz while others may prefer the quiet elegance of the Crabapple.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Crabapple is praised for its frictionless and smooth typing experience, providing a fluid travel that minimizes resistance. Additionally, the Crabapple switch also offers a mild and textured feel that falls in a comfortable middle ground, appealing to a wide range of users.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and HC Studio Crabapple switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a distinctive clacky sound and easy actuation, the Crabapple stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing experience with a mild and textured feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your keyboard switch choice, both options offer exceptional performance that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences regarding typing feel and sound. If you value a light and easy-to-press key switch with a clacky sound profile and visually appealing design, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a frictionless typing experience with a mild and subdued sound, the Crabapple switch crafted from POM material might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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