HMX Blue Topaz vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, users are presented with distinct options to suit their typing preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing an easy-to-press typing experience accompanied by a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the MX Red switch from Cherry offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust and responsive typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Blue Topaz excels in effortless keystrokes and visual appeal, the MX Red focuses on a tactile typing experience with a textured feel. 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 Red switches provide different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound with a higher pitch, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the MX Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound due to its softer composition. While both materials are effective in enhancing sound quality, they offer distinct auditory experiences to the user.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Red utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing materials may result in comparable sound characteristics between the two switches when it comes to bottom-out sounds and overall typing experience. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still exhibit differences in sound due to other factors such as spring design or stem material.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound of a switch, it becomes evident that each component plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced and balanced sound experience for users of both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Red switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is the lighter of the two. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Blue Topaz require less force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Blue Topaz is 48 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. The Blue Topaz offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the MX Red may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier push. Overall, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we can see that the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm. While the difference may seem minor, it can impact the typing experience depending on personal preferences. A shorter travel distance like the one on the Blue Topaz can result in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. However, some individuals may find short travel distances too abrupt and prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Red for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you prefer.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound, characterized by its sharp and snappy nature, giving users a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a deeper, thocky sound profile with low-pitched undertones, offering a more robust and satisfying sound when typing. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards the distinct clacky sound of the Blue Topaz or the rich thocky sound of the MX Red for their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a textured feel with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the easy-to-press feel of the Blue Topaz and the textured feel of the MX Red hinges on personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel, ideal for users looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red offers a deeper thocky sound and a textured feel, catering to users who prefer a slightly heftier typing experience with more friction. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz and Cherry MX Red linear switches, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Blue Topaz if you prefer a light bottom out force, super smooth actuation, and a clacky sound profile that provides both visual and auditory delight. Opt for the MX Red if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, a deeper thocky sound profile, and a textured typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lightweight and easy-to-press typing feel with a clacky sound (Blue Topaz) or a slightly heavier and textured typing experience with a thocky sound (MX Red). Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your individual typing style and preferences.
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