HMX Blue Topaz vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a seamless typing experience accompanied by a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency. While the Blue Topaz is touted for being easy to press and clacky, the Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, and invigorating. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, there are some key differences to consider. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Blue Topaz is known for its clear and resonant qualities, while the POM of the Blueberry brings a softer and more subdued tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Blue Topaz incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller typing sound. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. Similarly, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. While both materials offer a different typing experience, they both aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, while the HMX Blue Topaz and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry may differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to offer a unique typing experience. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound profile of the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted tone of the Blueberry's POM, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter overall. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a softer touch may opt for the Blue Topaz, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while those seeking a more tactile experience may lean towards the heavier NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blueberry. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Blueberry being more on the standard side, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster actuation, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blueberry for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to drastically impact typing or gaming experiences, and both switches can provide similar results depending on individual preferences.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 offers a clacky and sharp sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch produces a lower-pitched and resonant sound that gives a deeper and cleaner typing sound overall. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz being more crisp and bright, while the Blueberry switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch boasts an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force for activation, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy and invigorating feel, thanks to its sharp tactile bump and responsive nature. The Blueberry switch also has a buttery and textured sensation, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience for users who appreciate a bit of friction in their switches.
Overall, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have different sound and feel qualities, they both offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. Whether you prefer a clacky sound with easy actuation like the Blue Topaz or a lower-pitched, snappy feel like the Blueberry, both switches are sure to impress with their distinctive characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for. Just keep in mind that the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, so consider these factors when making your decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound, then the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-pitched, resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
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