HMX Blue Topaz vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches stand out for their smooth actuation and clacky sound signature. The Blue Topaz offers a lightweight feel and a distinctive glitter housing that adds visual appeal to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. Both switches are easy-to-press and provide a satisfying clacky sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Zuoce Lavender, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lavender uses a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Interestingly, both switches employ a similar material for their bottom housing, with the Blue Topaz utilizing nylon and the Lavender using POM. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while POM also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Zuoce Lavender aim to provide users with a unique and pleasing sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz is designed to create a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Lavender offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. While the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound profile, the POM bottom housing of the Lavender contributes to a similarly deep and muted sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and user experience. The Blue Topaz and Lavender showcase how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the Blue Topaz or the softer POM of the Lavender, each housing material serves to enhance the characteristics of the switch and cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams to fully bottom out, while the Lavender switch needs 53 grams, making it slightly heavier in this aspect as well. The Blue Topaz is ideal for those who prefer a light typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions, while the Lavender switch offers a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with specific preferences in key press feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the quicker response time of the Blue Topaz due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Lavender. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and response time.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 it comes to sound, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer a satisfyingly clacky sound signature when pressed. This produces a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The auditory experience provided by these switches adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing process, enhancing the overall typing enjoyment for users. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, both the Blue Topaz and Lavender switches are praised for their easy-to-press nature. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This responsive and low-impact typing feel enhances the overall typing experience for users, allowing for smooth and efficient keystrokes with every press.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Zuoce Lavender linear switches boast smooth actuation and easy-to-press qualities that make typing a delightful experience. While they share similarities in sound and feel, each switch also has its own unique features, such as the distinctive glitter housing of the Blue Topaz and the proprietary Ly blend of the Lavender. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound signature. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and enjoy a unique glittery housing design with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams and value exceptional smoothness right out of the box with a crisp and clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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