HMX Blue Topaz vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Neptune stand out as unique options with their own distinct characteristics. The Blue Topaz linear switch offers a smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with an easy-to-press and clacky typing experience. Its glittering housing adds a visual and auditory delight to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features an innovative internal structure that creates a buttery and gummy typing experience, with a smooth and frictionless glide that feels reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. The Neptune's ultralight design ensures swift and effortless typing, coupled with a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Neptune, it's evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Blue Topaz utilizes nylon while the Neptune uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This difference in material results in distinct typing experiences, with the Blue Topaz offering a more rounded sound and the Neptune providing a clearer sound overall.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Neptune housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Blue Topaz stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect typing experience for their needs.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Neptune linear switches are quite similar. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Blue Topaz requiring 40 grams to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, while the Neptune requires 41 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. This makes them both suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. The slight difference in force required between the two switches may not have a significant impact on the overall feel while typing, so users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as sound, smoothness, or overall design.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Neptune linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for individuals looking for faster response times, particularly gamers. The small difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, meaning that you'll likely get similar results with either option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how the switch feels when typing or gaming, with the Blue Topaz offering a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 profile, characterized by sharp and snappy noises when pressed. This brings a sense of crispness and brightness to each key press, adding a percussive element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a low-pitched, muted sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the Blue Topaz. The Neptune's subdued sound signature ensures a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz being livelier and the Neptune being more understated.
As for feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch provides a buttery, frictionless typing experience that ensures smooth and fluid keystrokes. The Neptune's unique combination of springy resistance and almost frictionless glide gives it a matte feel that adds texture and pleasure to every key press. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Blue Topaz focusing on lightness and ease of use, while the Neptune emphasizes smoothness and uniformity.
Overall, when comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound with easy-to-press key presses, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a livelier typing experience. In contrast, the Neptune stands out with its low-pitched, muted sound and buttery, frictionless feel, offering a more subdued and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the dynamic and lively nature of the Blue Topaz or the subtle and refined feel of the Neptune to suit their typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique characteristics, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In concluding, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a super smooth actuation with a lightweight feel, along with a distinctive glittery design and clacky sound, the Blue Topaz switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for an innovative internal structure providing a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delicacies, along with a "matte" feel and muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lightweight, tactile typing experience with a clacky sound (Blue Topaz) or a smooth, harmonious typing sensation with a subdued sound profile (Neptune).
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