HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Lucky represent two intriguing options for users seeking a linear switch experience, each with its own unique qualities. The HMX Blue Topaz is celebrated for its ultra-smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making it an inviting choice for those who prioritize quick, effortless keystrokes. Its visually appealing housing, sprinkled with glitter, not only adds a touch of flair but also produces a distinct clacky sound signature, enhancing the tactile pleasure of typing. In contrast, the HMX Lucky boasts soft, glittery nylon housings that contribute to a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, appealing to users looking for a more subtle auditory feedback while maintaining comfort and ease of use. While both switches perfectly cater to different preferences—ranging from the eye-catching style and sound of the Blue Topaz to the understated yet satisfying feel of the Lucky—choosing the right switch ultimately depends on individual typing dynamics and aesthetic inclinations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Lucky switches exhibit contrasting acoustic profiles primarily due to the differences in their top housing materials. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced when the keys are pressed, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper audio feedback. Polycarbonate's ability to allow RGB lighting to shine through without distortion further adds an aesthetic appeal for users who want visual customization in their mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Lucky uses a nylon top housing, which has the opposite effect; nylon’s softer nature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The material absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, leading to a rounder auditory experience that may be preferred by those seeking a softer touch.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Lucky utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This common use of nylon means that both switches share certain acoustic characteristics attributed to this material. When typing on either switch, users will experience a deeper and more rounded sound profile during the key press thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. As a result, while the Blue Topaz may produce a brighter sound while releasing the key due to its polycarbonate top, the bottom-out sound and feel will be similar between the two switches because of the nylon bottom housing. This shared material essentially balances the auditory experience between both switches at the lower end of the keystroke.

In summary, the primary differences between the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Lucky lie in their choice of top housing materials, which significantly impacts the sound profile during the key release. The distinct sharpness from polycarbonate enhances the overall clarity, while nylon contributes to a fuller and rounder typing experience. However, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that when a user presses down on either switch, the qualities of nylon dominate the sound and feel, creating a similar bottom-out experience. Ultimately, while the two switches can deliver different acoustic signatures based on their top housings, the nylon bottoms harmonize the overall performance, allowing users to enjoy a rich and satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX Lucky linear switches, both switches exhibit relatively light characteristics, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lucky switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Lucky switch the lighter option overall, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Blue Topaz provides a marginally stronger feel during typing, thanks to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Nevertheless, users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of engagement during use due to the overall lightweight nature of both switches, though the Blue Topaz might be favored by those seeking a bit more resistance.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch measures 3.9 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Blue Topaz offers a more pronounced depth with its travel, which might be more appealing to users who prefer a substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the Lucky switch, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who favor quicker response times, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches are relatively close in their distances, the distinguishable 0.1 mm difference favors the Blue Topaz as the longer option, whereas the Lucky stands out as the shorter alternative. Thus, users can choose based on their preference for either a deeper, more tactile experience or a snappier, quicker actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by a prominent clacky quality, which produces a bright and percussive sound with each keystroke. This clacky signature adds an auditory layer that can enhance the typing experience, offering a lively and engaging feedback with every press. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch lacks a specified sound description, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat ambiguous. The actual sound produced may heavily rely on the keyboard's build and the keycaps chosen, but without further details, the Lucky's sound profile remains unknown.

When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch excels with its easy-to-press action, providing a lightweight touch that makes typing feel effortless. This gentle resistance minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use, enhancing overall comfort and responsiveness. The Lucky switch, on the other hand, offers a neutral and satisfying typing experience, thanks to its softer nylon housing. While the exact feel of the Lucky switch is not detailed, its lightweight nature suggests it could provide a similar ease of use, promoting a comfortable typing environment.

Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Lucky linear switches offer unique engaging qualities tailored to different user preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out with its lively clacky sound and effortless actuation, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience. The Lucky, while less defined in sound and feel specifics, promises a neutral satisfaction that could appeal to users who prefer a subtler typing experience. If you're looking for a responsive and visually appealing switch, the Blue Topaz might be your go-to, while the Lucky could serve as an enticing alternative for a balanced, gentle experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch should be guided by your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a switch that offers a tactile and auditory experience, the Blue Topaz is your go-to option. Its light actuation force of 48 grams and clacky sound signature provide an engaging typing experience that's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of feedback in their keystrokes. Additionally, the glittery housing adds a fun aesthetic aspect to your keyboard setup. However, if you lean towards a more neutral and satisfying typing experience, the HMX Lucky switch may be the better choice for you. With an even lighter bottom-out force of 43 grams and its soft nylon housing, you'll find that these switches allow for smooth and gentle keystrokes without the added auditory prominence of the Blue Topaz. In essence, choose the Blue Topaz for a vibrant and lively interaction with your keyboard, or opt for the Lucky if you seek a more subtle and serene typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Blue Topaz Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more