HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Jupiter Red both offer exceptional qualities for different preferences. The Blue Topaz is known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, giving users a breeze-like typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those looking for a seamless and consistent typing experience. While the Blue Topaz offers a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, the Jupiter Red boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects for a polished and creamy typing experience. 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 Red Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Jupiter Red lies in their bottom housing. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Blue Topaz uses a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Jupiter Red also utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which may lead to a slightly different typing experience compared to the Blue Topaz.

Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Blue Topaz and the Jupiter Red share similar qualities in their top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for users looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic allows for a clearer and more resonant sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch with a sharp sound profile and the ability to showcase RGB lighting, both the Blue Topaz and the Jupiter Red would be suitable options.

In terms of functionality, the choice between the Blue Topaz and the Jupiter Red will largely come down to personal preference. The differences in bottom housing material may influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch, with the Blue Topaz offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. However, both switches provide a sharp, crisp sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, making them both suitable choices for users looking for a switch that excels in sound quality and aesthetics. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Topaz or the Jupiter Red, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, we find that the Blue Topaz is the lighter of the two. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother and quicker keystroke. In contrast, the Jupiter Red offers a heavier and more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance when typing. The actuation force of the Blue Topaz is 5 grams lighter than that of the Jupiter Red, while the bottom out force is 12 grams lighter. This means that the Blue Topaz will require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force when pressing all the way down compared to the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being slightly shorter than the Jupiter Red. These shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for faster response times. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky experience with sharp and snappy sounds, adding a certain flair to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suited for a wide range of users and environments. When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation, resulting in a gentle and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness during key travel.

Taking all the available information into consideration, it's clear that the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a light and effortless typing experience with a visually appealing clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a more versatile option with its polished and creamy feel, perfect for those seeking a refined and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices depending on individual preferences, with the Blue Topaz delivering a unique blend of smoothness and auditory delight, while the Jupiter Red focuses on a polished and consistent typing experience. Choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lightweight and clacky feel or a medium-heavy and polished typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. The easy-to-press nature of the Blue Topaz makes typing effortless and comfortable, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you value a seamless and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. With its smooth and polished feel, as well as the option for creamy or silky sensations, the Jupiter Reds offer a refined typing experience that minimizes friction. Ultimately, your decision should align with your desired typing experience and sound preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more