HMX Blue Topaz vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also provides a clacky sound signature, offering both visual and auditory delight. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switches offer a smooth and creamy feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile. Categorized by adjectives such as subdued, creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, the Honey switches provide a different typing experience compared to the Blue Topaz. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Blue Topaz uses nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Honey opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout.
Despite their different bottom housing materials, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey offer a unique sound experience for users. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, ensuring a clear and resonant typing sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different plastics can impact the overall sound characteristics of a switch.
When considering the overall typing experience of the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey, it is important to understand how the top and bottom housing materials influence sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz will have a notable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey will contribute to a consistent sharp sound profile. Additionally, the top housing materials play a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, while both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials can provide users with different typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that both switches have fairly similar characteristics. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation and bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The small difference in force between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, resulting in a similar typing feel for both. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for slight differences in actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Honey linear switches both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9mm, while the Honey has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum and are ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Blue Topaz may provide a slightly more tactile feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Honey may feel slightly more abrupt to some users. Ultimately, choosing between the two may come down to personal preference regarding the desired level of responsiveness and tactile feedback.
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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 typing experience, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone when keys are pressed. This sound profile adds a unique auditory element to your typing sessions, giving each keystroke a distinctive and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound experience that is deep and pleasant without being overly loud. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can cater to varying preferences, with the Blue Topaz providing a more pronounced typing sound compared to the more understated Honey switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press nature, featuring a smooth actuation and lightweight feel that requires minimal force to activate. This effortless typing experience enhances overall comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. This frictionless and buttery feel provides a luxurious typing experience that can elevate your overall typing comfort and enjoyment.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound with easy-to-press actuation, while the Honey switch offers a more subdued sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced typing sound with effortless key presses or a subdued sound with a luxurious, buttery feel, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Honey linear switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and a lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey switch could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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