HMX Blue Topaz vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a visually appealing glittery housing and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, promising a delightful typing experience with accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished features. Both switches have their unique perks that cater to different preferences, whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness or enjoy a tactile feedback and vibrant 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, promoting clearer and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Despite both switches having the same top housing material, the overall sound and feel may differ based on other components.
While the Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Lavender Purple Pro also incorporates a nylon bottom housing for similar acoustic benefits. Typing on switches with nylon housings can create a more muted and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housing in these switches showcases how each material can affect the overall typing experience in various ways.
In comparing the two switches, it is clear that the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each key press. The top housing, typically responsible for the sound upon key release, and the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, work together to create a unique typing experience. While both switches share some similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings may lead to variations in the overall typing feel and sound.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch reveals some differences. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, which is still lighter than the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 55 grams. This means that while the Blue Topaz may feel lighter during typing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel and don't mind a bit more resistance may find the V3 Lavender Purple Pro to be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9mm compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 3.8mm. Despite this small difference, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual typing or gaming styles.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, giving users an auditory experience that enhances their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch's sound profile is not explicitly described, suggesting that it may not have as distinct a sound signature as the Blue Topaz.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This smooth actuation contributes to a low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle. The bouncy and snappy characteristics give users a lively feel and responsive typing experience, while the polished finish ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel that enhances the typing experience, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch provides a different set of subjective qualities such as an accented tactile feedback, bouncy sensation, snappy responsiveness, and polished finish, making it suitable for users looking for a medium tactile switch with a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, clacky typing experience, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light actuation force and a bouncy, snappy typing feel with accented tactile feedback, the Lavender Purple V3 switches could be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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