HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Blue Topaz stands out with its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze with a beautiful housing design that adds a visual and auditory delight to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch doesn't boast any specific standout features but is known for its reliability and consistency. While the Blue Topaz may be more appealing to those looking for an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Outemu Black may be favored by those seeking a more straightforward and reliable typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Black switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is translucent and ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Black switch also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities.
Overall, both the Blue Topaz and Outemu Black switches benefit from the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. While the top housings deliver a distinctive sound profile with polycarbonate, the bottom housings contribute to a fuller sound with nylon. This split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, where the impact of the bottom housing is felt during key presses, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a range of sound options depending on the combination of materials used in their construction.
In conclusion, the Blue Topaz and Outemu Black switches showcase the versatility of different housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housings produce sharp, high-pitched sounds, while the nylon bottom housings contribute to deeper and fuller tones. This combination allows for a dynamic typing experience with each switch, where the qualities of both materials come together to provide a unique sound and feel. Whether using RGB lighting with the Blue Topaz or enjoying a rounder sound with the Black, both switches offer a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Outemu Black linear switch. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a significantly higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Blue Topaz makes it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to users who prefer a firmer keystroke and more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, we can see that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Black being slightly longer than the Blue Topaz. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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, which provides a satisfyingly sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. This auditory feedback, combined with the distinctive glitter housing, creates a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users. In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch offers easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This lightweight feel enhances typing efficiency and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience overall.
Comparatively, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare it to the Blue Topaz in this aspect. Similarly, information on the feel of the Outemu Black switch is unavailable. However, based on the known qualities of the Blue Topaz switch, it can be inferred that the Outemu Black switch may offer a similar smooth actuation and lightweight feel, resulting in a comparable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, providing users with a visually appealing and enjoyable typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Black switch remain unknown, if it offers similar smoothness and lightness in actuation, users can expect a comparable typing experience to that of the Blue Topaz switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and any additional features that may differentiate the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a visually appealing design and clacky sound, the Blue Topaz switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and do not mind the lack of distinctive features in terms of sound and tactile feel, the Outemu Black switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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