HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Kang White both offer unique features to enhance the typing experience. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a distinctive glitter housing that adds a visual and auditory delight. On the other hand, the Kang White stands out for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. The Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', while the Kang White falls under 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own advantages that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Kang White, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches equipped with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in sound and aesthetics from both the Blue Topaz and the Kang White due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the differences between the housing materials of the Blue Topaz and the Kang White lie in their bottom housing. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller tone. Similarly, the Kang White also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, thereby offering users a comparable typing experience with a similar emphasis on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Overall, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a unique tactile typing experience.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Blue Topaz and Kang White switches respectively provides users with a balanced typing experience that caters to both the actuation and release of keys. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the KTT Kang White linear switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Blue Topaz may be the preferred choice, as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Kang White offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but users looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Blue Topaz, while those seeking a more substantial feel may prefer the Kang White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz, while those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Kang White. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 is praised for its clacky sound that provides a sharp and snappy typing experience, adding a satisfying auditory element to the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, delivering a more mellow and versatile typing sound suitable for various environments. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences when it comes to typing sound, providing users with options to suit their individual preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Blue Topaz is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to a smooth and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch is unavailable, but if the switches are similar in design and key features, users can expect to get a similarly comfortable and responsive typing experience as with the Blue Topaz.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Kang White linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Kang White provides a low-pitched and neutral typing sound. Depending on individual preferences for typing sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their overall typing experience. It is important to consider all available information and personal preferences when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Blue Topaz may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a low-pitched sound with a neutral feel, the Kang White switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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