HMX Blue Topaz vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HMX Blue Topaz and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a clacky sound signature that adds an extra level of satisfaction. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, featuring a poppy and clacky sound paired with smoothness that is sure to impress users. While the Blue Topaz is easy-to-press and clacky, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. 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
55g
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clear resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Blue Topaz and the V3 Cream Black Pro share the same polycarbonate top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz offers a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound profile. These differences highlight how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can greatly influence the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials for a keyboard switch plays a significant role in dictating the sound profile and overall typing experience. While both the Blue Topaz and the V3 Cream Black Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The split between the impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound and feel, and the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, highlights the importance of considering both materials when designing a keyboard switch for specific sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, making it a light switch option. In contrast, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Blue Topaz more suitable for extended typing sessions, while individuals who prefer a more substantial feel to their keystrokes may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force weights.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz has a longer travel distance at 3.9 mm compared to the Cream Black Pro's 3.3 mm. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Cream Black Pro's shorter travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are currently trending in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a deeper or more responsive key press.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Blue Topaz leaning towards a brighter and percussive sound, while the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a sharper and more high-pitched tone. The overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider these variables when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses which requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, it offers a bouncy and snappy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and enhanced responsiveness. The V3 Cream Black Pro switch is also polished, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro delivers a high-pitched sound with a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished tactile experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If a user enjoys a sharper sound with easy key presses, they may prefer the Blue Topaz, while those seeking a smooth and bouncy feel with a higher-pitched sound profile may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and user satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Blue Topaz if you prefer a light actuation force, smooth actuation, and a clacky sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a lightweight and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, go for the V3 Cream Black Pro if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a unique poppy and clacky sound, and a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. This switch is perfect for budget-conscious individuals looking for high-quality switches that provide a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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