HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and Gazzew LT mechanical keyboard switches, we find that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable for users who prefer an easy-to-press and clacky switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT, also a linear switch, boasts a distinctive lilac hue and a deep, resonant thockiness that creates a symphony of sound with every keystroke. Those who appreciate a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched switch will find the LTs to be a satisfying choice. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew LT differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, or "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides clarity and resonance, the LT's top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT also incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which mirrors the rich and deep sound profile of its top housing. Both housing materials contribute to a rounded and dull sound, with the nylon bottom housing emphasizing depth and the Gazzew blend offering a softer touch to the overall sound profile.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Blue Topaz and Gazzew LT offer distinct sound profiles with their differing housing materials, they both ultimately aim to provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Although the actuation force of the LT is unknown, the difference in bottom out force suggests that it is heavier than the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with lighter switches being more suitable for long typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Gazzew LT linear switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz switch. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly faster response time for the Gazzew LT switch, which could be preferred by gamers looking for quick key presses. However, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Blue Topaz switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky and crisp typing experience, with each key press delivering a sharp and snappy sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch provides a deep and resonant thockiness that creates a satisfying auditory symphony with every keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences - the Blue Topaz for those who enjoy a bright and percussive sound, and the LT for individuals who prefer a bassy and thocky tonality. Depending on the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps, they can achieve a similar level of auditory satisfaction with either switch.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a lightweight and smooth actuation that requires minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no explicit information available about the specific feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch. However, based on its seamless glide and deep thocky sound profile, it can be inferred that the LT switch may also provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience similar to the Blue Topaz.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a smooth and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a distinctive bassy and thocky sound profile, coupled with a seamless glide during typing. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the potential for users to achieve similar levels of satisfaction based on their specific sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Topaz and LT switches comes down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your typing preference. If you prefer a light actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, bassy, thocky sound profile, the Gazzew LT may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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