HMX Blue Topaz vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Blue Topaz stands out with its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. Its distinctive glitter housing adds visual appeal while the clacky sound signature provides auditory delight. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are praised for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, offering a more subdued typing experience. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Meteor Orange is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
The HMX Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the SP-Star Meteor Orange. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Both the Blue Topaz and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound in a softer manner creates a smoother typing experience compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a consistent sound profile and feel when pressed. However, the top and bottom housings play unique roles in influencing the overall sound and typing experience of a switch.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as with the Blue Topaz and the Meteor Orange, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as the different properties of each housing material contribute to distinct aspects of the sound profile. Overall, whether using polycarbonate or nylon, both the Blue Topaz and the Meteor Orange offer unique typing experiences that cater to varying preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Blue Topaz also has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, whereas the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue Topaz switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a bit more resistance, giving a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, picking between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Meteor Orange with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key feel and 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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. This sound profile adds a level of satisfaction and feedback to typing sessions, enhancing the overall user experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a gentle thocky sound upon pressing and releasing the keys. While the Blue Topaz excels in offering a lively and engaging sound experience, the Meteor Orange provides a more subtle and mellow auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force translates to a smooth and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a refined and comfortable keypress. The gentle tactility of the Meteor Orange switch, combined with its smooth key travel, makes it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of users.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer contrasting yet equally appealing experiences. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky and easy-to-press typing experience that is both visually and audibly satisfying, the Meteor Orange switch offers a neutral sound profile with a gentle and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and soft tactile feel with a neutral sound profile that is approachable to most users, the Meteor Orange could be the switch for you. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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