HMX Blue Topaz vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the selection of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a fascinating study in contrasts and complements. The Blue Topaz linear switch is celebrated for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making it easy to type quickly and efficiently. Its striking glittery housing adds a touch of visual flair, while the clacky sound signature provides an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its prominent tactile bump, delivering a satisfying feedback with every keystroke, alongside a loud, bass-heavy sound that many find exhilarating. Each switch caters to different preferences: if you enjoy a smooth, effortless typing sensation, the Blue Topaz may be your best bet, whereas fans of tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Creamy Purple Pro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
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 spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound characteristics. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which enhances the overall audio experience when typing. This shared characteristic makes both switches highly compatible with RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination effects to shine through. Users can expect a consistent auditory experience during both typing and gaming sessions due to the richness in sound clarity provided by this material.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of these two switches distinguishes their acoustic profiles. Both the Blue Topaz and the V3 Creamy Purple Pro feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which absorbs sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon contrasts with the polycarbonate top, which means that while both will create a combined sound experience unique to each switch, the bottom housing plays a critical role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Therefore, while both switches share similarities in their top housing, the nylon bottom contributes a more muted but rounded sound that can be particularly appealing to users who prefer a softer typing feel.
In summary, the interplay between the materials used in the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro results in distinct yet complementary sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing provides clarity and sharpness, while the nylon bottom housing imparts a deeper resonance, leading to a well-rounded typing experience. Ultimately, while the two switches share several material characteristics that influence their sound and feel, their unique combinations allow users to enjoy specific auditory nuances that cater to different preferences. Thus, whether using the Blue Topaz or the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, users can anticipate a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, capitalizing on the inherent strengths of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, we observe distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which can significantly impact typing experience. The Blue Topaz has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams compared to the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This means that the Blue Topaz requires more effort to trigger a keystroke, potentially providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a heavier switch. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz measures 48 grams, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro tops out at a heavier 50 grams when fully pressed down. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter option for extended typing periods or long gaming sessions, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, if you desire a more pronounced push feel, the Blue Topaz offers a heavier actuation experience, while both switches still operate within a light force range overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, we find that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference indicates that choosing the Blue Topaz will provide a more pronounced depth when pressing the key, aligning with preferences for a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Creamy Purple Pro's shorter travel distance caters to gamers or users who favor quicker response times and more efficient typing. Given this variance, those who prioritize a robust, deeper feel should opt for the Blue Topaz, while those seeking a snappier experience may prefer the Creamy Purple Pro.
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 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is recognized for its enticing clacky sound signature, which is characterized by a crisp and bright auditory response when typing. This percussive sound enhances the experience, giving users a satisfying feedback loop as they type. The sound of the Blue Topaz adds an engaging and lively quality to typing sessions. While the exact sound profile of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is not detailed, its reputation suggests it produces a loud and bassy sound, providing a stark contrast to the higher-pitched clack of the Blue Topaz. However, sound perception can vary widely based on the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing surface, meaning both switches could be perceived differently in various setups.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz is lauded for its exceptionally easy-to-press characteristics, requiring minimal actuation force for activation. This lightweight feel allows for effortless typing, making it comfortable for extended sessions without causing finger fatigue. Users can expect a responsive, low-impact typing experience that encourages swift keystrokes. In contrast, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is known for its pronounced tactile bump, which delivers a noticeable feedback as you press down on the keys. This tactile sensation can enhance typing precision and can be particularly appealing to those who appreciate a more engaging interaction with their keys. While both switches cater to different preferences — the smoothness of the Blue Topaz versus the pronounced tactility of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro — they each provide a unique approach to the typing experience.
In summary, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear and Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switches deliver distinctive sensory experiences, albeit in different ways. The Blue Topaz appeals to those who prefer a smooth and clacky sound along with an effortless typing feel, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro focuses on a heavier tactile feedback accompanied by a louder, bassier sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can select either switch to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience, knowing they’ll find unique satisfaction with each choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a super smooth actuation with a lightweight feel that minimizes finger fatigue, the Blue Topaz might be your go-to option, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound signature that adds an auditory layer of excitement to your typing experience. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it easy to press, perfect for extended sessions where comfort is key. Conversely, if you prefer tactile feedback that enhances your typing with a satisfying bump, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro could be more suitable for your needs. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams, it offers a more felt resistance and a bassy, loud sound signature that is invigorating for tactile enthusiasts. In short, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness with the Blue Topaz or tactile feedback and a punchier sound from the V3 Creamy Purple Pro.
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