HMX Blue Topaz vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Keygeek Keylin offer unique propositions for typists and gamers alike, despite both being linear switches. The Blue Topaz is celebrated for its lightweight feel and super smooth actuation, making each keystroke effortless. Its eye-catching glittering housing coupled with a clacky sound signature adds a delightful auditory and visual element, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of flair in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Keylin is designed with new molds from Keygeek, providing a premium typing experience with rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, appealing to users who prioritize a refined and quieter operation. While the Blue Topaz bursts with character and liveliness, the Keylin leans more towards an elegant and sophisticated 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Keygeek Keylin, a significant contrast emerges in the top housing. The HMX Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This rigidity allows for a more resonant auditory experience, particularly useful for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances backlighting effects. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin employs a nylon top housing, which introduces a distinctly different sound characteristic; nylon being softer absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller tone that might lack the clarity associated with polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housing, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Keygeek Keylin utilize nylon, resulting in matching acoustic profiles for this component. The nylon bottom housing in both switches enhances a rounded and muffled sound, providing a deeper auditory response when typing. This similarity ensures that regardless of the differences observed in their top housings, both switches deliver a consistent sound experience at the bottom. Consequently, users can expect a smoother, more subdued sounding bottom-out feel when using either switch, thanks to the shared properties of nylon in the lower housing.
Ultimately, the combined effect of these housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles that will appeal to different preferences. The crisp sound of the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top contrasts with the Keylin's warmer auditory experience resulting from its nylon top. However, both switches converge at the bottom with their nylon construction, which especially governs the bottom-out sound and feel. For users who appreciate deeper tones, the Keylin may be preferable, while those seeking clarity and brightness might favor the Blue Topaz. Thus, the choice between these switches hinges on individual sound preferences, shaped by the interaction between their respective materials.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Keylin requires slightly less force to actuate at 38 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Keylin the lighter option in terms of actuation force, while both switches bottom out with the same resistance. Consequently, users can expect a similar experience when it comes to pressing them all the way down, but the Keylin may offer a marginally easier keystroke initiation due to its lower actuation force. Overall, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly heavier actuation feel, which some users may find provides a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Blue Topaz measuring 3.9 mm and the Keylin at 3.6 mm. This makes the Keylin the shorter option, offering a slightly quicker response that some gamers may prefer for faster keystrokes. In contrast, the Blue Topaz provides a lengthier travel distance, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing. While both switches may cater to different preferences regarding tactile feedback and responsiveness, the distinction in travel distance means that users looking for a deeper sensation will lean towards the Blue Topaz, while those seeking a more immediate response may favor the Keylin.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
When comparing the sound profile of the HMX Blue Topaz with the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Blue Topaz stands out with its distinctly clacky sound signature. This sharp, snappy acoustics offers a crisp and bright auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and enjoyable. The clacky nature of the Blue Topaz not only adds character to the typing experience but also creates an engaging environment for users. Conversely, the specific sound characteristics of the Keylin linear switch remain unknown, which may suggest a quieter operation or a different tonal quality, but without explicit details, it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison.
In terms of tactile feel, the Blue Topaz excels with its easy-to-press design that minimizes effort during key presses. This lightweight actuation provides gentle resistance, making each keystroke feel effortless and comfortable, which in turn reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Users can enjoy a smooth and responsive experience that enhances their productivity. Unfortunately, as with sound, the characteristics of the Keylin linear switch’s feel are not provided, leaving a gap in understanding how its performance aligns with or differs from the superior smoothness of the Blue Topaz.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a vibrant sound profile combined with a lightweight and smooth feel, making it particularly appealing for those seeking an engaging auditory experience and effortless typing. The unknown qualities of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch leave room for curiosity, as its potential may still align with the high standards set by the Blue Topaz in terms of typing experience and enjoyment. Ultimately, if both switches provide commendable smoothness, users could expect a great typing experience from either, but the Blue Topaz clearly steals the spotlight with its charming sound and user-friendly actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a switch that offers a lightweight touch with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz might be your best bet. Its super smooth actuation and eye-catching glitter housing deliver not only a pleasurable tactile experience but also an auditory delight, making it a fun choice for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin switch could be the perfect fit for you. While both switches share the same bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Keylin’s using new molds from Keygeek enhances the overall feel, providing a satisfying typing experience that may cater well to those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. Ultimately, consider what aspects you value most—visual and auditory enjoyment versus premium smoothness—and choose accordingly to enhance your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
