HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Darling stand out as two exceptional options, both offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz's linear switch is lauded for its smooth actuation and light feel, providing users with a seamless typing experience accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Darling linear switch from KTT offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, creating a springy responsiveness and delivering a resonant, high-pitched sound. While the Blue Topaz may appeal to those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound, the Darling is perfect for individuals seeking a bouncy, high-pitched switch with substantial tactile feedback. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Darling both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housings, there are slight differences. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Darling's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Blue Topaz and Darling share polycarbonate top housings, their differences lie in the material of their bottom housings. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, whereas the Darling's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch. Despite their similarities in the top housing material, the choice of bottom housing material in each switch contributes to distinct typing experiences for users.
In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Darling both excel in sound quality due to their polycarbonate top housings, creating sharp, clear, and resonant sound profiles. However, their nylon bottom housings present a contrast in sound experiences, with the Blue Topaz offering a deeper tone and the Darling producing a duller sound. The split characteristics of the housing materials in these switches demonstrate how the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Topaz and Darling will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Darling linear switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, while the Darling requires 45 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out. The difference in force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Blue Topaz and a slightly heavier typing experience with the Darling. For those who prefer a lighter feel when typing for extended periods of time, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Darling may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance than the Darling. This means that if you prefer a bit more depth to your keystrokes, the Blue Topaz may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and snappy feel to your key presses, the Darling with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance you prefer when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 the sound produced by the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, users can expect a clacky and sharp sound that adds a sense of precision and clarity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a more immersive auditory experience with a touch of springiness in each press. Overall, while the Blue Topaz provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback, the Darling offers a more vibrant and engaging sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a bouncy sensation with a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each key press, giving users a sense of rebound and responsiveness. Both switches have their unique feel, with the Blue Topaz focusing on lightweight actuation while the Darling emphasizing a chewy and substantial typing sensation.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Darling offers a chewy and bouncy typing sensation accompanied by a resonant high-pitched sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their typing experience to suit their needs. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics, and users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a visual and auditory flair, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and bouncy typing sensation with a pronounced springy responsiveness, the KTT Darling linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and easy-to-press feel with a clacky sound (Blue Topaz) or a chewy and bouncy feel with a resonant, high-pitched sound (Darling). Consider your personal preferences and typing style to determine which switch will best suit your needs.
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