HMX Blue Topaz vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the switch you choose can greatly influence your typing experience, and two intriguing options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Jade Rosales, both of which are linear switches offering unique attributes. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its lightweight feel and super smooth actuation, making typing effortless and enjoyable. Its eye-catching glittery housing adds a touch of aesthetic flair, while its clacky sound signature provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many users appreciate. On the flip side, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches stand out for their meticulous refinement, having been developed over a year with custom housings and lubrication techniques that yield an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is sure to delight typists who prioritize pure functionality. While the Blue Topaz excels in offering an engaging sensory experience, the Jade Rosales focuses on delivering precision and reliability. 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
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and Bsun Jade Rosales switches share a common feature in their top housing made of polycarbonate, which plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate’s characteristics, which include a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant audio quality that enhances the overall typing experience, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as its translucency allows for vibrant illumination. This similarity in top housing material means that users can expect a comparable auditory experience regarding the high-frequency notes and clarity in the sound produced from both switches.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly in material and design. The Blue Topaz features a traditional nylon bottom housing, which is renowned for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic properties. This results in a more muted audio experience, absorbing sound and providing a rounded tone that contrasts the sharper notes articulated by the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary “Custom Milky Material” for its bottom housing. While specifics on this material aren’t detailed, the unique formulation suggests potential variations in sound dampening and overall tactile feedback when pressing the switches compared to the nylon bottom of the Blue Topaz.
The differing bottom materials suggest that while the top housings create similar auditory experiences, the overall sound profile of each switch will be a blend of both housings' characteristics. With the Blue Topaz’s nylon bottom providing a rounder sound and the Jade Rosales' Custom Milky Material possibly offering a different sonic texture, users can balance their preferences by considering how these materials interact. As sound perception is affected by both the bottom and top housings, individuals will experience a unique typing feel and sound when using these switches, ultimately defining their suitability for different typing styles and environments.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a quicker response and extended typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Jade Rosales has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to those who like a more substantial typing experience that offers a stronger push feel. This means that for users who prioritize a lighter touch for comfortable long usage, the Blue Topaz would be a preferable choice. On the other hand, those favoring a heavier feel may opt for the Jade Rosales to enhance feedback while typing. Overall, while both switches offer a satisfying experience, the choice between them hinges on individual preferences regarding the required force for an optimal keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz offers a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jade Rosales measures at 3.5 mm. This means that the Blue Topaz provides a more pronounced depth when pressing down a key, which some users might find preferable for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Jade Rosales allows for quicker actuation, making it a potentially better choice for gamers or those who favor rapid response times in their typing. Ultimately, those who enjoy a hearty depth will likely lean towards the Blue Topaz, whereas those seeking speed and responsiveness may favor the Jade Rosales.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch produces a distinct clacky sound that sets it apart in the realm of mechanical keyboards. This crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback can be particularly satisfying for users who appreciate a pronounced sound with every keystroke. While the specifics of the Bsun Jade Rosales switch's sound profile remain unknown, it’s important to keep in mind that the sound produced by any switch can vary greatly depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycap materials used. Thus, while the Blue Topaz offers a clear and engaging auditory experience, the Jade Rosales may provide a different but equally enjoyable sound signature based on its construction and accompanying components.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate while offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This design greatly enhances the comfort level and reduces finger fatigue, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a light and effortless typing experience during long sessions. The details regarding the feel of the Bsun Jade Rosales are not disclosed; however, given the emphasis on meticulous refinement in its design and custom lubrication techniques, it can be assumed that it also delivers a smooth typing experience. Both switches are likely to provide comfort, though the specifics may differ.
In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz and Bsun Jade Rosales switches each have their unique offerings. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel that suits many typists, while the Jade Rosales, with its refined manufacturing process, suggests an equally smooth experience, though its sound and feel qualities remain undisclosed. Regardless, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in their own way, allowing users to enjoy similar benefits while potentially differing in auditory characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and enjoy a tactile sound signature, the Blue Topaz is an excellent option, particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions where you want to reduce finger fatigue. Its smooth actuation and clacky sound can make your typing experience not only efficient but also enjoyable for casual typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer key press with a richer auditory profile, the Jade Rosales switches may be a better fit for you. They offer a medium-light force that combines responsive feedback with a meticulous design aimed at achieving a refined and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style—whether you seek effortless keystrokes and engaging sound or a bit more resistance and sophistication—before making your final decision.
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