HMX Blue Topaz vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry Nixie, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Blue Topaz linear switch offers a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze. Its distinctive glitter housing adds a visual appeal, while the clacky sound signature enhances the auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is a revered classic known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, the Nixie combines tradition with modern innovation. Both switches have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Cherry Nixie switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. This is especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the Cherry Nixie switches utilize nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, contributing to a rounder and less resonant sound. However, despite both switches having nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these qualities varies depending on which part of the switch is being used. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Blue Topaz and Cherry Nixie switches share a nylon bottom housing, their differing top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Blue Topaz with its polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper and clearer sound ideal for RGB lighting, while the Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Blue Topaz is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Nixie provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Blue Topaz is lighter while the Nixie is heavier, catering to different preferences among users for their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a smaller travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing faster response times, while others may find the Nixie more comfortable for its slightly longer travel distance, offering a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive feel or a deeper, more tactile 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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing users with a crisp and bright auditory experience that adds to the overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and mellow tone that appeals to those who prefer a more bass-heavy sound profile. While the Blue Topaz delivers a snappy and percussive sound, the Nixie provides a satisfying and rich sound that enhances the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and requiring gentle force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing noticeable friction that some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Whether you prefer a smooth and light typing experience or a textured and substantial feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Nixie offers a thocky sound and a textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches bring unique qualities to the table, ensuring that users will enjoy a pleasant and customized typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and smooth actuation with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force with a textured typing feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Nixie may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most.
Mentioned in this article
