HMX Blue Topaz vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and Cherry MX Purple RGB represent two distinct options that cater to different user preferences. The Blue Topaz, recognized for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offers an enjoyable typing experience that feels effortless with every keystroke. Its unique glittered housing and pronounced clacky sound signature add a touch of visual flair and auditory excitement, making it an appealing choice for those who value both aesthetics and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is designed for those who appreciate a tactile response, delivering a satisfying medium-strength bump with each key press. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch focuses on offering a refined tactile feedback that enhances typing precision and can be ideal for gamers and typists alike. While the Blue Topaz may cater to users seeking a smooth and engaging auditory experience, the Cherry MX Purple is perfect for those who thrive on tactile feedback. 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
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
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 of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches provide contrasting auditory experiences due to their composition. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which lends to a clearer and more resonant sound when the key is released. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a nylon top housing, which results in a distinctly deeper and fuller sound. The nylon's softer qualities absorb sound waves, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the Blue Topaz's top housing enhances brightness in sound, the Cherry MX Purple emphasizes richness, demonstrating a key difference in their design philosophies.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon. This shared material results in both switches having similar deeper sound profiles when the keys are bottomed out. Because nylon is adept at absorbing sound, both switches benefit from a fuller auditory experience during this phase of key actuation. Despite the variation in top housing materials, the consistent use of nylon at the bottom means that the sound produced when the keys are fully pressed down will have a cohesively muted resonance across both models.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate at the top of the Blue Topaz and nylon at the bottom creates a hybrid sound profile that offers clarity upon release while maintaining richness on impact. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, with nylon in both top and bottom housings, will yield a more uniform and round sound character throughout the keystroke. When comparing the two, it becomes clear how the differing materials impact the sonic qualities of each switch, showcasing how the interplay between top and bottom housing materials can markedly influence user experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the MX Purple RGB has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, making the Blue Topaz the lighter option of the two. The bottom out force for the Blue Topaz is 48 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to fully engage the switch compared to its actuation force. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's bottom out force is not specified, leaving a gap in understanding its full actuation experience. For typists or gamers who favor lighter switches for extended usage, the Blue Topaz would likely be more comfortable, whereas those who appreciate a firmer, more substantial typing experience might lean towards the MX Purple RGB, despite lacking concrete details on its bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This indicates that the Blue Topaz switch is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers looking for quicker keypresses. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple's 4.0 mm travel distance provides a more traditional depth, which could be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke and tactile feedback. Therefore, if you're seeking a faster response, the Blue Topaz would be the better choice, whereas the Cherry MX Purple may suit those who favor a more substantial keypress 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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz switch offers a distinct clacky sound profile characterized by its sharp and snappy auditory response. This crisp and bright sound adds a playful element to typing, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have specific sound characteristics noted, which means its acoustic signature can vary widely depending on the keyboard build and the materials used, but it may lean towards a more subdued or refined experience due to its tactile design.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch shines with its lightweight, easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to actuate. This feature greatly enhances comfort, particularly during long typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue while still offering a responsive experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch's tactile bump provides a medium-strength feedback that is designed for keyboard enthusiasts, offering a different typing experience that may be more engaging for those who enjoy feeling the activation point.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Blue Topaz is excellent for those seeking a smooth, light, and auditory experience combined with a vibrant appearance, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB might appeal to users looking for a tactile sensation with a more customizable sound profile. Understanding these differences will help newcomers choose a switch that best aligns with their typing style and personal preferences, resulting in a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Blue Topaz is an excellent choice, especially if you spend long hours typing and appreciate a lightweight feel. Its clacky sound adds an enjoyable auditory element, making it stimulating for some users. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile sensation that provides feedback with a slight bump during actuation, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be the better fit for you. Although its sound profile is less defined, it offers a satisfying tactile experience that can enhance your typing rhythm. In essence, consider the Blue Topaz for a lighter, quieter experience with smooth strokes, while the MX Purple RGB would serve well for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a more traditional typing feel. Each switch has its unique characteristics, and the right one for you will depend on how you prioritize responsiveness, sound, and tactile feedback in your daily use.
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