HMX Blue Topaz vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Topaz is well-known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze for users. Its housing, adorned with glitter that catches the eye, also produces a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight that strikes a balance between ease of pressing and tactile feedback. With a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Master switch provides a polished typing experience for users. While these general attributes may help in choosing between the two switches, a deeper dive into their specific characteristics can help you make the best decision based on your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Master both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. However, both materials excel in providing a pleasing sound experience, albeit with different tones and characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Blue Topaz features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound experience. While both materials offer unique qualities, nylon tends to create a fuller sound while POM adds a pleasing depth to the overall sound profile.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Blue Topaz and the Dareu Master offer exceptional sound experiences. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows each switch to showcase a combination of qualities, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Blue Topaz or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Master, both switches provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts looking to enhance their keyboard setup.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have different bottom out forces, with the Blue Topaz requiring 48 grams to bottom out, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. The Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Master switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for users seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing compared to the Master switch. However, the Master switch's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a quicker and more sensitive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
The Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch also has a clacky sound, delivering a similar sharp and snappy sound profile. Both switches will provide users with a satisfying sound feedback while typing, with the choice between the two depending on personal preference for the specific nuances of their sound.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch is characterized as mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. While both switches provide a smooth operation, the Blue Topaz may appeal more to users who prefer an easy-to-press switch, whereas the Dareu Master may suit those looking for a polished typing experience with a mild feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both provide a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz stands out for its easy-to-press nature, while the Dareu Master offers a more polished and mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance, with the decision coming down to personal preference for the specific characteristics of each switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a super smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and easy-to-press typing experience or a more polished and mild feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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