HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two options that might catch your eye are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze for its users. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also adds to the clacky sound signature, providing a visually and audibly pleasing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, does not have a specific standout feature mentioned. However, it is known for its satisfying click sound when pressed. The Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', while the Outemu Blue falls into a different category altogether. When choosing between the two, consider whether you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing experience or a satisfying click with each keypress. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 the Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of sound profile, the difference in housing materials between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue is significant. While both switches boast a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the HMX Blue Topaz pulls ahead with its nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound experience. The split qualities of the two housing materials enhance the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. This unique combination of materials in the HMX Blue Topaz sets it apart from the simpler construction of the Outemu Blue.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue play a crucial role in defining their respective sound profiles and tactile feedback. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a sharp and clear sound, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. The balance of stiff and soft plastics in the HMX Blue Topaz creates a more dynamic typing experience, where the qualities of each housing material are distinctly felt during key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Blue's uniform material composition may result in a more consistent but potentially less nuanced sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Outemu Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Blue Topaz more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Outemu Blue, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. Despite the slight differences in force requirements, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out, albeit with varying degrees of pressure needed. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although the travel distance of the Blue Topaz is slightly shorter, the difference is minimal and both switches offer a similar tactile feel and responsiveness. For gamers seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz may be preferred. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Blue clicky switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between the two depending on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing users with a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a lightweight feel that requires minimal force to activate. This gentle resistance provides a comfortable typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not specified.
Taking all the available information into consideration, if you are looking for a switch with a smooth actuation and lightweight feel accompanied by a clacky sound signature, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a tactile feel, the Outemu Blue switch may also be a suitable option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your keyboard, so consider trying out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a light and smooth actuation with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky sound and are looking for a switch with a higher actuation force, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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