HMX Blue Topaz vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and Cherry MX Speed Silver both offer unique features and benefits to consider. The Blue Topaz linear switch boasts a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a breezy typing experience. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also produces a pleasing clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is geared towards maximizing speed and rapid response, ideal for gamers who need instant triggers for split-second decisions. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the MX Speed Silver is labeled as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry MX Speed Silver are quite different, with the Blue Topaz featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the MX Speed Silver has a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz and the MX Speed Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound to create a rounder sound. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more prominent when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of similarities, both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile compared to harder plastics. Although the specific characteristics of the housing materials may vary between the Blue Topaz and the MX Speed Silver, users can expect a quality typing experience from both switches due to the absorption of sound provided by the nylon housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the lighter option. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams. However, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be the more suitable choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz provides a slightly heavier typing feel with a higher actuation force and bottom out force, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The MX Speed Silver switch is slightly shorter, providing an even faster response, while the Blue Topaz switch offers a slightly deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a slightly longer and more tactile press.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. This sound profile is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing an auditory experience that enhances the typing or gaming session. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound, giving off a deep, rich tone that is satisfying to the ear. Additionally, the low-pitched nature of the MX Speed Silver switch adds a more bass-heavy and mellow quality to the sound, creating a different auditory experience compared to the Blue Topaz switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is noted for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which indicates noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users, adding a unique tactile sensation to the typing experience that differs from the smooth actuation of the Blue Topaz switch.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for users looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound and textured feel, catering to gamers seeking maximum speed and tactile feedback during intense gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user, but both switches guarantee a high-quality typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light switch that provides a delightful typing experience, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Blue Topaz offers a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a light and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and instant responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch would suit your needs better. The Speed Silver is known for its rapid actuation and low spring resistance, perfect for gamers seeking quick keystrokes for competitive gameplay. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should depend on your preference for typing feel and sound, as well as your specific usage requirements.
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