HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Orange switches stand out as top contenders. The Blue Topaz linear switch is renowned for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, creating an effortless typing experience with a distinctive glitter housing that adds visual appeal. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy feel with a frictionless typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, thanks to its unique components and factory-lubing. While the Blue Topaz is characterized as easy-to-press and clacky, the Orange is categorized as bouncy, frictionless, and low-pitched. Each switch offers its own set of advantages, so choosing between them will depend on individual 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
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Orange switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound overall.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the properties of their respective housing materials. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, while the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the differences in sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Orange switches showcases a shared emphasis on creating a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the Blue Topaz's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. The combination of unique housing materials in each switch contributes to their individual sound characteristics, offering users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Topaz makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and may need to type for extended periods, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. The heavier actuation force of the KTT Orange provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing feel and keypress strength. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches show the balance between a lighter touch and a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange, providing a slightly deeper press feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Orange with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Blue Topaz. Both switches offer a good balance between depth and responsiveness, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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, known for its sharp and snappy noise that adds a sense of crispness and brightness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While the Blue Topaz delivers a sharp and percussive auditory experience, the Orange switch provides a smoother and more subdued sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a lightweight feel that enhances typing comfort. Its smooth actuation and gentle resistance make typing effortless and reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a sleek, fluid key travel. The lively feel of the Orange switch gives users a sense of rebound when pressing the keys, adding a dynamic element to the typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press feel for a lightweight typing experience, the KTT Orange stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and bouncy, frictionless typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired outcome. It's important to consider factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps to fully maximize the potential of either switch, ensuring an optimal typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a bouncy and frictionless typing feel, and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch would better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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