HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Hibiscus each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz switch is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a relaxed and effortless experience. Its glitzy housing not only catches the eye but also enhances its clacky sound signature, providing an auditory delight that appeals to many users. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus pushes the boundaries of smoothness, boasting an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of other switches on the market. This switch delivers a crisp, poppy sound, adding a satisfying tactile feedback that many aficionados might find irresistible. While both switches bring their own charm to the table, the choice between them ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and desired auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Hibiscus switches illustrate a compelling contrast in design philosophy and sound output. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer plastic composition. This choice enables a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for users who favor the pronounced feedback of keystrokes. The translucency of polycarbonate is also advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as it allows for vibrant illumination that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches. In contrast, the Hibiscus opts for a nylon top housing, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded acoustic experience—a feature that might appeal more to users looking for a softer typing experience.
Both switches, despite their differing top housing materials, share the same nylon bottom housing. This consistency in material leads to similar sound characteristics for the bottom-out experience. According to the descriptions, the nylon bottom serves to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound effectively and contributes to the overall roundness of the keystroke. This means that while the typing and release sounds may vary significantly between the two models due to their respective top housings—crisp and sharp in the Blue Topaz versus dull and full in the Hibiscus—the bottom housing ensures that both switches still offer a cohesive feel during the bottom-out phase, regardless of the differences in top sound signatures.
In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Hibiscus switches present a fascinating study of how different materials can influence typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz introduces a clarity and brightness in its sound profile, perfect for users who desire an audible keystroke feedback. On the other hand, the Hibiscus’s nylon top housing emphasizes a more rounded and muted sound, catering to those who prefer a softer touch. Nevertheless, both switches converge in their bottom housing—crafted from nylon—creating a shared auditory experience during keypresses. This element of similarity in bottom housing allows users to appreciate the nuanced differences in sound while still enjoying a consistent depth and fullness with each keystroke.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Hibiscus linear switches both provide a lightweight typing experience, though they do exhibit slight differences in their actuation forces. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Hibiscus requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams; this means that the Blue Topaz is the lighter of the two, making it more suitable for users seeking extended typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. Interestingly, both switches share the same bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating that once fully pressed, they deliver the same level of resistance. For users who prefer a lighter touch for longer use, the Blue Topaz is the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes will find the Hibiscus slightly more to their liking. Overall, both switches are designed for a comfortable typing experience, but their actuation forces provide unique tactile characteristics.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Blue Topaz the longer travel option, offering a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to those who favor a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, could provide a quicker response time, making it more suitable for gamers who prefer rapid actuation. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Blue Topaz for those who appreciate a fuller keypress and the Hibiscus for users seeking a more responsive feel. Thus, if you're deciding between the two based on travel distance, choosing the Hibiscus may grant you a faster actuation, while the Blue Topaz will offer a more substantial travel experience.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 sound profile of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by a clacky quality, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. This sound is often described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory cue with each keystroke. While the sound can vary based on the keyboard case and keycap material used, the inherent clacking nature of the Blue Topaz ensures that typists will enjoy a lively soundscape. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch remain unspecified, indicating a potential area for exploration that could complement or contrast with the Blue Topaz’s expressive auditory characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch shines with its easy-to-press nature; the gentle resistance provides minimal effort for actuation, promoting a smooth and effortless typing experience. This low actuation force helps to minimize finger fatigue even during long typing sessions, making it an inviting choice for both casual and professional typists. In contrast, the feel of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is not detailed, leaving an unanswered question about how these switches compare in terms of tactile feedback and user comfort.
In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a delightful combination of clacking sound and a super smooth, lightweight feel that makes typing enjoyable and less fatiguing. Without further details on the HMX Hibiscus, the comparison highlights an exciting opportunity for variety in the world of linear switches. Both switches promise different auditory and tactile experiences, making it essential for users to consider their preferences when choosing between them.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you value a lightweight feel and a smoother actuation that makes every keystroke feel effortless, the Blue Topaz is an excellent choice. Its distinctive clacky sound signature adds a playful auditory element that can enhance your overall typing experience, making it ideal for both casual use and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-light actuation that still maintains a satisfying sound profile combined with exquisite smoothness, then the HMX Hibiscus would likely be your best bet. With its poppy and crispy sound signature, the Hibiscus can make typing a joyful experience, perfect for extensive writing sessions or when you want a more tactile feedback. In essence, if you lean towards a fun and engaging auditory experience, go for the Blue Topaz; but if you're after sheer typing enjoyment characterized by a rare level of smoothness, the Hibiscus is the way to go.
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