HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX KD200 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making it an ideal choice for users who favor a seamless and effortless typing experience. Additionally, its distinctive glittery housing and clacky sound signature not only provide visual appeal but also add an engaging auditory element to each keystroke, making it popular among those who appreciate feedback in their typing. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film switch family, designed for users who seek that satisfying auditory feedback with each press. Although both switches are linear, making them suitable for quiet environments and gaming, their unique sound profiles and tactile sensations lead to diverse experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Topaz and the KD200 hinges on individual preferences for feedback and aesthetics. 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

HMX KD200 Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX KD200 exhibit notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for its ability to deliver a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate’s stiffer characteristics, translating into a clear and resonant auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency. In contrast, the KD200 employs a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer material, absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and less pronounced auditory output compared to polycarbonate. As a result, while both switches might offer pleasing experiences, the tonal characteristics differ significantly, with Blue Topaz highlighting clarity and brilliance, while the KD200 emphasizes richness and depth.

When considering the bottom housings, both the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX KD200 share a commonality. Each switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic material known for its acoustic properties. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this softer plastic absorbs more sound, providing a softer bottom-out feel. This results in a more muted and rounded auditory experience when the key is pressed down. Thus, irrespective of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches will produce a similar depth and richness in sound when keys are bottomed out, attributed to their shared nylon bottom constructions.

In essence, while the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX KD200 diverge in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the former and nylon for the latter—they converge in their acoustic performance at the bottom due to their identical nylon bottom housings. This duality in the housing materials illustrates a balance between clarity and depth in sound profiles. Users can expect a distinctive auditory experience when pressing down on the keys, heavily influenced by the bottom housing's nylon composition, while also observing variations in sound and feel upon releasing the keys, making the overall typing experience unique for each switch.

Weight

The HMX Blue Topaz and HMX KD200 linear switches both have light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are some differences between them. The Blue Topaz features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it the lighter of the two options. In contrast, the KD200 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, resulting in a marginally heavier feel. While both switches allow for comfortable typing experiences suitable for extended use, those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Blue Topaz more appealing. Conversely, users who enjoy a slightly stronger resistance during their keystrokes may lean toward the KD200, providing a more substantial typing experience. Despite these weight differences, both switches’ actuation and bottom out forces are relatively low, ensuring that typists can enjoy a pleasant performance without becoming fatigued during long sessions.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the Blue Topaz offers a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference may affect the typing experience significantly; for those who favor a more pronounced key press, the Blue Topaz provides that hearty depth. Conversely, gamers or users seeking quicker response times might prefer the KD200 due to its shorter distance, which allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness, with the Blue Topaz catering to those who enjoy more travel and the KD200 appealing to those who prioritize speed.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by a clacky quality. When typing on this switch, users can expect a sharp and snappy auditory response, often described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This makes each keystroke not only functional but also an auditory pleasure. Although the specific sound characteristics of the HMX KD200 linear switch are not provided, it is noted to be the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting that it may produce a similarly sharp and lively sound, potentially matching or even exceeding the Blue Topaz in terms of auditory feedback. However, factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps will also significantly influence the overall sound experience for both switches.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch excels with its easy-to-press design. Its lightweight actuation force allows for smooth, effortless keystrokes, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. This responsive feel enhances the overall typing experience, appealing particularly to those who prioritize ease of use. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the HMX KD200 linear switch, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this regard.

In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX KD200 linear switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Blue Topaz presenting a delightful clacky sound and the KD200 promising to be even clackier. In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz's lightweight actuation promotes an easy typing experience, though we lack specific details about the KD200's tactile feedback. The choice between these switches may ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound and the availability of information on their feel characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a super smooth actuation and a lightweight feel that allows for effortless typing, especially during long sessions, the Blue Topaz is an excellent option for you. Its clacky sound signature and visually appealing glitter housing add an extra layer of enjoyment, making each keystroke not only a functional act but also a sensory experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that boasts the clackiest sound in the HMX Film switch family, the KD200 may be more to your liking. Although it has a slightly higher bottom out force, this switch offers a more pronounced auditory feedback, making it an ideal choice if you enjoy a louder and more expressive typing experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects—smoothness versus sound profile—are most important to you, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more