HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing an easy and effortless typing experience. Its distinctive glitter housing adds a visually appealing element, complemented by a clacky sound signature that enhances the overall user experience. On the other hand, the Lime switches offer a unique combination of lightweight design, subtle tactility, and silenced operation, catering to tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Lime is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own advantages and characteristics that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Lime switches, it is evident that one significant difference lies in their top housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. On the other hand, the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their strengths and contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, the polycarbonate housing of the Blue Topaz is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing an added aesthetic benefit.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Blue Topaz and the Lime switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when bottoming out keys. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the switches produce a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience overall.
It is interesting to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite this division in impact, both the Blue Topaz and the Lime switches benefit from the unique characteristics of their housing materials, creating distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences of keyboard enthusiasts. Whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon, these switches offer a combination of stiffness and softness that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Blue Topaz may feel slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel compared to the Lime. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch, the Lime may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more feedback may lean towards the Blue Topaz.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper feeling when typing compared to the Lime switch. Gamers and individuals looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lime switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so selecting the one that aligns with your preferences for depth and responsiveness is essential. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize a deeper keystroke feeling or a quicker 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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature that is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a more neutral and muted sound profile, being softer and quieter compared to the Blue Topaz. Depending on personal preference, the Blue Topaz may be preferred for those who enjoy a sharper and more pronounced sound, while the Lime may be favored by those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Conversely, the Outemu Lime switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. While the Blue Topaz focuses on a smooth actuation and lightweight feel, the Lime switch focuses on providing tactile feedback with a light touch that is comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing a smooth actuation and clacky sound signature, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a neutral and muted sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz leaning towards a smoother typing experience with a distinctive sound, and the Lime offering a gentle and tactile feel with a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility and a silenced sound profile, then the Lime switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs and comfort level.
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