HMX Blue Topaz vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Olive 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 BSUN Olive offer unique experiences for users. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a breezy typing experience with a clacky sound signature that is visually appealing. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive is a tactile switch with all-POM housings that deliver a resonant, deep sound, and pronounced tactile feedback. The long pole stem of the Olive switch ensures a crisp bottom-out, giving users a satisfying typing experience. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Olive switch is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Olive both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Olive's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those looking for a clearer and resonant sound with RGB lighting effects, the Olive offers a more subtle and pleasing sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and stand out in their own way.
In terms of bottom housing, the Blue Topaz features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housing materials, showcasing their commitment to sound quality and tactile feedback.
It's interesting to note that the differentiation in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch allows for a unique combination of sound qualities in both the Blue Topaz and the Bsun Olive. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different sound preferences, making them appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects compared to the Olive. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, leaning towards the medium-heavy side. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Topaz make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Olive provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Olive switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their unique travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound with a smooth actuation, providing a pleasant typing experience that is both satisfying to the ears and effortless in feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback, creating a more invigorating and sharp typing sensation. While the Blue Topaz focuses on a lightweight and easy-to-press feel, the Olive stands out with its medium weight and accented tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring users can find the perfect match for their typing needs. With the Blue Topaz excelling in smoothness and lightness while the Olive shines in tactile feedback and sound resonance, users can expect distinct experiences depending on their choice of switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a smooth actuation and a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-weight switch with pronounced tactile feedback, a deep sound profile, and an invigorating typing experience, the Bsun Olive switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Blue Topaz for its smoothness and lightness or the Olive for its tactile feedback and deep sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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