HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the difference between linear and tactile options can significantly influence your comfort and productivity. The HMX Blue Topaz, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight design, providing users with an effortless keystroke that pairs beautifully with its captivating glittery housing and a clacky sound signature. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers or those who enjoy an auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch developed with the office environment in mind, offering gentle tactility and a muted sound profile that caters to professionals who require extended typing sessions without the disruptive clack. Lightweight and comfortable, the Mini i strikes a balance between satisfying feedback and a serene atmosphere, making it ideal for the workplace. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Mini i, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This particular material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thereby enhancing the switch's acoustic characteristics when RGB lighting is incorporated. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing that yields a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the relative softness of the nylon. While the nylon absorbs potential resonance, it results in a duller and rounder auditory experience than what is produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the Mini i employ nylon. This shared housing material means that the acoustic characteristics grounded in the nylon’s sound-absorbing properties are consistent in both switches. Here, the impact on the sound and feel during the bottoming-out phase will remain more similar, as nylon helps foster that deeper, fuller sound. In this way, while the top housings differ significantly in terms of material properties, the equivalent nylon bottom housing means the overall sound produced when pressed down will share certain commonalities.
In summary, the contrast between the Blue Topaz and Gateron Mini i can be succinctly encapsulated by their top housing materials; polycarbonate promotes a sharp auditory profile, while nylon yields a more muted sound. However, both switches align on the choice of nylon for their bottom housings, which binds them together in terms of producing a deeper sound when keys are pressed. Thus, while users may experience varied soundscapes upon key release due to their contrasting top materials, the overall performance concerning bottoming out remains consistent and harmonious thanks to the nylon composition of the bottom housing in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we find notable similarities and slight differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams, making them both light in feel, which is beneficial for users who prefer less resistance during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams whereas the Mini i requires a slightly heavier 50 grams to fully depress the switch. Consequently, while both switches offer a comparable actuation experience, the Blue Topaz provides a slightly less pronounced bottom out feel, appealing to those who might favor a bit more softness in their keystrokes. In summary, the HMX Blue Topaz is the lighter option regarding bottom out force, making it suitable for users seeking a softer typing experience, while the Gateron Mini i is marginally heavier, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial feel in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it becomes clear that the Blue Topaz, with a travel distance of 3.9 mm, offers a deeper experience compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Mini i. This difference means that users who prefer a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Blue Topaz for its longer travel, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Mini i may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as the reduced depth allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, opting for the Blue Topaz will provide a more robust key feel, while the Mini i caters to those preferring a snappier, more responsive 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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 distinctly clacky experience that elevates the auditory aspect of typing. With its sharp and bright sound signature, it produces a crisp percussive noise upon actuation, making each keystroke noticeable and vibrant. This can be particularly pleasurable for those who enjoy a more expressive typing sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch features a more subdued and neutral sound profile that accommodates various environments, especially in professional settings. Its gentle sound is less intrusive, making it suitable for both home and office use without sacrificing the satisfaction of each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz is characterized by its super smooth linear action, providing an effortless and easy-to-press experience that minimizes resistance during typing. This lightweight feel is designed to reduce finger fatigue, allowing for long and comfortable typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i switch is versatile in feel, offering a bouncy and snappy response along with an easy-to-press action that encourages a lively typing experience. It also incorporates a mild, stepped characteristic that gently guides users through the keypress without being overly pronounced, making it friendly for both beginners and seasoned typists.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron Mini i switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Blue Topaz offers a more vibrant auditory and tactile feedback with its clacky sound and smooth action, while the Gateron Mini i focuses on a balanced and office-friendly experience without sacrificing the enjoyment of typing. While they cater to different preferences—expressive versus subtle—both switches provide lightweight operation that minimizes finger strain, making either choice a beneficial upgrade for a newcomer to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with a light actuation force, appreciate smooth keystrokes, and don’t mind a clacky sound profile, the Blue Topaz is a fantastic option. Its visually appealing glitter housing adds an aesthetic element, making it ideal for creative settings or gaming where an engaging auditory feedback enhances the experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more subdued and professional typing environment, especially in shared spaces like offices or study areas, the Gateron Mini i is your go-to option. With its subtle tactility and neutral sound profile, it provides a satisfying yet subdued feel that’s perfect for long typing sessions without being distracting. Both switches boast a lightweight feel, but their differing characteristics mean that the Blue Topaz is excellent for personal enjoyment while the Mini i offers a more versatile and office-friendly experience. Ultimately, consider where and how you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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