HMX Blue Topaz vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Honey Bean both stand out for their unique characteristics. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze with its clacky sound signature and eye-catching glittery housing. On the other hand, the Honey Bean offers a light and linear action with silent operation, making it perfect for shared environments where noise is a concern. Both switches are easy-to-press but offer slightly different tactile experiences. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective top and bottom materials. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Honey Bean has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches use POM for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile that is shared between the two switches.
When examining the top housing materials specifically, it is evident that the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Honey Bean's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side. However, both materials contribute to the overall sound experience of the switches, showcasing how different housing materials can impact the sound output of a switch.
Overall, the split design of having different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a nuanced typing experience with varied sound profiles. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing experiences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Blue Topaz is 48 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Honey Bean is unknown. This means that the Blue Topaz requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke but provides a slightly heavier typing experience when bottoming out. The Honey Bean offers a slightly heavier actuation force but it is unclear how it compares in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue Topaz, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Honey Bean if its bottom out force is also on the heavier side. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Honey Bean. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound, giving users a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch provides a muted sound profile, ideal for quiet environments like offices where noise reduction is a priority. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz appealing to those who enjoy more audible feedback and the Honey Bean suiting individuals looking for a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Honey Bean switch is noted for its feathery feel, further reducing strain on the fingers and making it comfortable for prolonged use, whether for gaming, school, or work. The similar feel of these switches ensures that users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience, regardless of their choice between the two.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound signature and a lightweight typing experience, appealing to users who value audible feedback and smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Honey Bean stands out for its muted sound profile and feathery feel, making it well-suited for quiet environments and extended typing sessions. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Topaz or the Honey Bean, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent operation, a feathery feel, and a muted sound profile, the Honey Bean switch could be the perfect fit. Whether you're looking for a switch that enhances your typing experience with its gentle resistance or one that minimizes noise in a shared environment, both switches offer unique benefits to cater to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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