HMX Blue Topaz vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a distinctive glitter housing that adds a touch of visual and auditory delight. On the other hand, the Neo White switch stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience with the use of a Ly stem. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Neo White feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for the top housing of a switch, especially if RGB lighting is planned to be used. Despite having similar top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
In terms of bottom housings, the Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon material while the Neo White also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This indicates that both switches will offer a unique typing experience due to the differences in their bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Neo White share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The split between the qualities each housing material brings to the switch allows for a distinctive typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key, resulting in a dynamic typing experience for both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Neo White has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience compared to the Blue Topaz. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Blue Topaz more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Neo White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. On the other hand, the Neo White's shorter travel distance may appeal to users looking for quicker key presses. Overall, both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their respective travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being the longer option and the Neo White being the shorter option.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a more neutral sound, striking a balance between actuation force and sound level, suitable for various typing environments. While the Blue Topaz delivers a more distinct and percussive sound, the Neo White offers a moderate and versatile sound profile, catering to a wider range of preferences and scenarios.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and offering a light and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a mild typing sensation, delivering a gentle and approachable feel that appeals to a broader audience. Both switches prioritize a smooth actuation process, but the Blue Topaz leans towards a more responsive and low-impact typing feel, while the Neo White offers a comfortable middle ground for users seeking a versatile typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, providing a visually and auditorily pleasing experience for users who prefer a light and responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Neo White excels in delivering a neutral sound and a mild typing experience, appealing to a wider range of users with its balanced characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier weight and a more neutral typing experience with a mild sound profile, then the Neo White switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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