HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is celebrated for its lightweight feel and super smooth actuation, allowing for effortless keystrokes, while its eye-catching glittery housing and clacky sound signature provide a delightful sensory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro shines in its affordability, delivering buttery smooth keystrokes that produce a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a velvety typing experience on a budget. While both switches offer distinct advantages—whether it be the visual flair and auditory feedback of the Blue Topaz or the budget-friendly smoothness of the Milky Red Pro—they ultimately serve different needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
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 housing materials used in the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches provide a fascinating point of contrast, particularly in their top housing. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it ideal for setups involving RGB lighting because of its translucency. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro uses a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its traditional use in switch designs. Nylon has a softer structure, absorbing sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in sound characteristics means that users can expect a notable contrast when typing or gaming on these switches.
When we look at the bottom housing of both switches, the materials blur the line between contrasting qualities, as both the Blue Topaz and the Milky Red Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Given that nylon is consistent in its sound-absorbing characteristics, both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound profile when bottoming out. Despite the variations in the top housing materials, this shared nylon construction of the lower sections will help impart a certain level of auditory harmony in terms of sound depth. This presents an interesting auditory experience, where the deeper tones from the bottom housing will complement the distinctive sound profiles generated by their respective top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing for the HMX Blue Topaz and a nylon top housing for the Gateron Milky Red Pro results in distinctly different sound profiles when the keys are released, while their shared nylon bottoms provide a fuller lower-end sound when bottomed out. Typing on the Blue Topaz may feel sharper and clicky upon release, while the Milky Red Pro will feel more rounded and muted in comparison. Users seeking a crisper sound can opt for the Blue Topaz, whereas those who prefer a deeper, more subdued auditory experience may lean toward the Milky Red Pro. The blend of these materials points to the thoughtful design inherent in keyboard switch construction and how varied materials influence both the tactile sensation and auditory feedback of their operation.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming might gravitate towards the Blue Topaz, while users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may find the Milky Red Pro more appealing due to its heavier tension. With the Blue Topaz being the lighter choice, users can expect more comfortable extended use without fatigue, while the Gateron provides a firmer push for those seeking a more tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we observe that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Milky Red Pro measures 4 mm. This makes the Blue Topaz the shorter option between the two. Consequently, gamers or users who prefer quicker actuation may favor the Blue Topaz for its slightly reduced distance, which can facilitate faster response times. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback with deeper keystrokes might opt for the Gateron Milky Red Pro, which offers a more traditional and fuller depth of travel. Overall, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and tactile experience, with the Blue Topaz providing a snappier feel and the Milky Red Pro delivering a more robust typing experience.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches, a distinct difference emerges. The Blue Topaz delivers a clacky sound signature, characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive tones. This makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging, appealing to those who enjoy a more auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro switches produce a low-pitched thocky sound, which is deeper and offers a bass-heavy quality to the keystrokes. This creates a softer and more muted auditory experience, providing a satisfying depth reminiscent of a deeper thud. Both switches require careful consideration of keyboard and keycap choices, as these factors can further influence their sound.
Regarding the tactile experience, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is known for its lightweight and easy-to-press action, making it exceptionally comfortable for long typing sessions. This light actuation force results in a responsive and low-impact typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue. Meanwhile, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is lauded for its buttery smoothness, providing an effortlessly flowing keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort but come from slightly different angles; the Blue Topaz offers gentle resistance while the Milky Red Pro emphasizes that seamless, fluid movement.
In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches each provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out with its clacky, lively sound and easy-to-press functionality, making it suitable for those who enjoy engaging auditory feedback and lighter key presses. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro offers a deeper, richer sound profile and an incredibly smooth typing experience that emphasizes fluidity. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether a user prefers a more pronounced auditory experience with an easy actuation or a subtle, deeper sound with buttery smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lightweight feel with effortless keystrokes, the Blue Topaz is an excellent option, especially for prolonged typing sessions where comfort and ease of use are paramount. Its clacky sound signature might appeal to those who enjoy a more engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you want a smooth yet slightly firmer typing experience with a rich, bassy sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be more suitable for you. These switches offer a buttery smoothness that can enhance both gaming and typing, combined with a satisfying thock sound that many users enjoy. Ultimately, assess how each switch aligns with your typing style, the acoustics you prefer, and how the tactile feedback suits your tasks; this will guide you in making the right choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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