HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Jupiter Brown offer distinct experiences for users. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze with its easy-to-press keys and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch combines tradition with innovation, providing a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. With enhanced softer backlight effects, these switches offer both reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches share many similarities as they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material, with the Blue Topaz featuring a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Brown also utilizes nylon, offering a similar experience. Despite this difference, both switches effectively combine the qualities of their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Blue Topaz and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches both benefit from the unique properties of their polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharp and crisp sound profile. The clear housing of polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting for a visually striking effect. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches helps to further enhance the sound experience by absorbing more sound and creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. This combination of housing materials in both switches results in an overall pleasant typing experience that is both satisfying to the ears and aesthetically pleasing.

When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall feel of the switch, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are divided between the Blue Topaz and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches. The bottom housing material has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Despite this differentiation, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience that combines the unique qualities of polycarbonate and nylon to create a satisfying and enjoyable sound profile for users.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter overall. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother keystroke and lighter touch. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches have their advantages, with the Blue Topaz being better suited for longer typing sessions and the Jupiter Brown offering a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Brown. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may prefer the Jupiter Brown for its slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky experience, emitting a crisp and bright sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, as this information was not provided. Keep in mind that the sound output of a switch can be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch provides an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as offering a mild and polished feel, falling in a middle-ground zone of tactility and smoothness. Additionally, it features a stepped design, providing a tactile response that is not too pronounced but still noticeable during typing.

Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out with its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound, appealing to users looking for a responsive and visually captivating typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch combines tradition and innovation, offering a tactile keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and enhanced soft backlight effects. Both switches prioritize precision and aesthetics, ensuring reliable performance and an enjoyable typing experience. Given their contrasting characteristics, users can expect different but equally satisfying results depending on their preference for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a super 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 enjoy a classic keystroke feel with medium-heavy weight, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and easy-to-press typing experience (Blue Topaz) or a mild and polished typing sensation with tactile feedback (Jupiter Brown). Consider these factors carefully to ensure that your mechanical keyboard switch enhances your typing experience to the fullest.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more