HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Crystal mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a comfortable typing experience. It also boasts a distinctive glittery housing that adds a visually pleasing element to the keyboard, along with a clacky sound signature that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal switch offers a slightly elastic feel and medium-light weight, creating a unique linear typing experience. Additionally, it provides a neutral sound profile that is polished and high-pitched. While the Blue Topaz may appeal to those looking for an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Crystal may be preferred by individuals seeking a chirpy and polished feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Crystal, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar acoustics and tactile feedback when typing on these switches. However, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Crystal's bottom housing. This distinction in bottom housing material can result in a noticeable difference in sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. Both the Blue Topaz and the Crystal make use of this aesthetic feature in their top housings, ensuring that users can enjoy vibrant lighting effects when typing on these switches. While the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing may contribute to a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing, the overall typing experience is likely to be enhanced by the combination of these different housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Crystal ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Blue Topaz offers a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon bottom housing, while the Crystal provides a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of their top housing material, showcasing the versatility and customization options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have some notable differences. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Crystal has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing may prefer the Crystal switch, while the Blue Topaz would be favored by those who appreciate a lighter touch. Both switches offer varying levels of force, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing habits and preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch. Both are relatively close in distance, with the Blue Topaz being the shorter of the two. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Blue Topaz due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more traditional and deeper key press may opt for the Outemu Crystal with its 4 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual user is seeking.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound, with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. Depending on your preference for sound, the Blue Topaz will give you a more traditional clacky sound, while the Crystal will provide a higher-pitched and chirpy tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. This results in minimal force required to activate the switch, making typing effortless, comfortable, and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a polished feel, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel. If you prefer a lighter touch with minimal resistance, the Blue Topaz is the way to go, while the Crystal will give you a smoother and more refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch provide unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, the Blue Topaz will be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Crystal is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, consider the Blue Topaz if you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth, clacky typing experience. The Blue Topaz offers a visually appealing design with a distinctive glitter housing and a crisp sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Crystal if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force with a unique, linear typing experience. The Crystal switches provide a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference based on the typing experience and sound profile you prefer.
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