HMX Blue Topaz vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two interesting options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Meteor White, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a pleasant typing experience. Its housing is visually striking with glitter accents and produces a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a more subdued typing experience, with easy-to-press keys and a gentle sound profile. It provides a soft touch and a thocky sound, creating a polished feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, but it ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Meteor White, it's evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing of the Blue Topaz is made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials will lead to a noticeable difference in sound when releasing a key between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is more translucent and ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of translucency for showcasing RGB lighting. While both switches prioritize creating a visually appealing experience with their housing materials, the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more vibrant and colorful lighting display compared to the Meteor White.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Meteor White will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. If a user prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile, they may lean towards the Blue Topaz with its polycarbonate top housing. However, if a deeper and fuller sound profile is more appealing, the Meteor White with its nylon top housing may be the preferred option. Despite their differences, both switches offer a premium typing experience thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option. 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 touch when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Meteor White has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Blue Topaz would be better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force, while the Meteor White would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor White. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Blue Topaz providing a slightly quicker keypress compared to the Meteor White. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of desired keypress 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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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 clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing on this switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch produces a subtle and gentle pitter-patter sound profile, described as thocky. This switch offers a softer and more muted sound experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the vibrant clack of the Blue Topaz or the softer thock of the Meteor White.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring light actuation force. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience, catering to a wide range of users with its gentle feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the Meteor White switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a clacky and easy-to-press typing experience with a visually striking glitter housing, the Meteor White offers a softer thocky sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. However, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant typing experience, catering to a variety of users with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a super smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and a clacky sound profile, the Blue Topaz is the way to go. This switch provides an easy-to-press typing experience that is ideal for those looking for a breezy and visually appealing option. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle, subdued switch with a soft sound profile and a polished finish, the Meteor White might be more to your liking. This switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users and is suitable for various environments. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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