HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often depends on personal preference and typing style, and the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Luciola offer unique experiences to cater to different users. The Blue Topaz is celebrated for its easy-to-press, super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes which are accompanied by a distinct clacky sound, enhancing the tactile experience for typists who enjoy both auditory and visual engagement thanks to its glittering housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola stands out not only for its eye-catching ability to glow in the dark but also for its bouncy and polished typing feel, providing a satisfying experience with a sound profile that is intricately layered—reminiscent of the hollow sound of a shaken spray paint can. While both switches share a clacky tonal quality, they differ in feel, actuation weight, and sound texture, which can significantly impact your 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
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Luciola switches, notable differences emerge that significantly affect their acoustic profiles. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a material renowned for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile that is particularly resonant. This quality enhances the auditory experience, especially for users who favor RGB lighting, as the clear nature of polycarbonate allows light to diffuse effectively. In contrast, the Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing that, while also producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, is designed to be slightly less sharp. This distinction results in a clackier sound profile that some users may find more satisfying, depending on personal preference.
The bottom housing materials create another layer of comparison, with the Blue Topaz featuring a nylon bottom and the Luciola employing the same proprietary INK blend as its top. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer characteristics, which absorb more sound and help create a more rounded auditory profile. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing echoes the higher-pitched nature of its top housing, producing a consistent sound experience that remains pointed and expressive. This similarity in the use of the INK blend in both top and bottom housings results in a cohesive sound signature that leans towards a bright, clacky timbre, giving the Luciola a distinctive character different from the Blue Topaz despite the contrasting materials.
When considering the overall impact on sound and feel, the housing materials ultimately play crucial roles in defining each switch's acoustic signature. The Blue Topaz, combining a crisp polycarbonate top housing with a softer nylon bottom, results in a distinctly layered sound experience that balances sharpness with a fuller tone. Meanwhile, the Gateron Luciola, with its uniform use of the proprietary INK blend, is likely to present a more homogenous sound profile, characterized by its clacky and pointed auditory feedback throughout the key press. Users drawn to specific sound profiles may find themselves gravitating toward one switch over the other based on these contrasting material traits, ultimately impacting their typing experience and preference for tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Luciola sports a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. This means that while the Blue Topaz is better suited for users seeking comfort over long periods, the Luciola may cater to individuals desiring a firmer response. Overall, if you are looking for a lighter switch with a softer touch, the Blue Topaz is the way to go; however, if you prefer a stronger push-back, the Luciola will satisfy that need.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the Blue Topaz features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Luciola measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, the Blue Topaz would be the better choice, as it offers a more substantial feel compared to the shorter Luciola. For those who prefer quicker responses, especially gamers seeking faster key actuation, the Luciola’s shorter travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Luciola switches produce a clacky sound profile, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience when typing. However, the Luciola takes it a step further with additional auditory qualities such as chirpy and marbly sounds, along with a high-pitched resonance that adds a unique character. This variety can provide users with a more dynamic and layered auditory experience compared to the straightforward clack of the Blue Topaz. It's worth noting that the actual sound produced will depend on several factors, including the keyboard frame and keycap material used.
When discussing the feel, the HMX Blue Topaz is defined by its easy-to-press action, which offers minimal resistance and is ideal for extended typing sessions, effectively reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola is snappy, buttery, and polished, leading to a responsive and smooth typing experience. The longer or dual-staged springs in the Luciola contribute to its lively feel, while the buttery and polished descriptions suggest a refined keystroke experience with minimal friction. Though the actuation force may differ, both switches ultimately aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, albeit in distinct ways.
Considering the overall attributes, the HMX Blue Topaz offers a lighter, less resistant pressing experience with a visually pleasing clacky sound, making it a great option for users who prioritize effortless typing and an engaging auditory environment. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola combines a snappy response with a variety of unique sound characteristics, making it suitable for those who enjoy a rich acoustic experience during typing. While both switches appeal to different preferences, users can choose which qualities align better with their typing style and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and intended use. If you gravitate towards a lighter touch and a magical typing experience where keystrokes feel almost effortless, the HMX Blue Topaz is your go-to. Its distinct glittery housing and clacky sound signature can bring an engaging and visually appealing aesthetic to your setup, making it a perfect match for casual typing and creative projects where ease of use is paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more resistant and tactile feel, the Gateron Luciola provides a satisfying balance with its medium weight. This switch offers a unique sound profile that combines clacky, chirpy, and marbly elements—ideal for those who enjoy a range of auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the Luciola's glow-in-the-dark feature adds a fun flair for nighttime use. Ultimately, consider how you use your keyboard: if you're a gamer or typist who values speed and lightness, go for the Blue Topaz; if you seek a more robust typing experience with added personality, the Luciola is likely your best fit.
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