HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, we see distinct differences in both feel and sound. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze for users who prefer an easier keystroke. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also provides a clacky sound signature, adding both visual and auditory delight to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch offers a clicky sound without any specific standout features mentioned. While the Blue Topaz may be the go-to choice for those looking for an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Blue Jade provides a classic clicky sound. 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
65g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue Jade switches both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound because of its softer nature. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Blue Topaz is especially beneficial for those who want to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Blue Jade helps to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the Blue Jade switches feature nylon as their material of choice. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing helps to create a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound when typing on the switches. While the top housing of a switch impacts the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Despite the difference in top housing materials between the Blue Topaz and Blue Jade, their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Blue Jade switches showcase the importance of material selection in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. Each material brings its own unique characteristics to the switches, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance in the Blue Topaz, and nylon focusing on sound absorption and a fuller sound in the Blue Jade. Whether it is the top housing for RGB lighting or the bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the choice of material in each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Blue Jade requires 50 grams for actuation. When it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, whereas the Blue Jade needs 65 grams for bottoming out. This indicates that the Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Blue Jade. For those who prefer a lighter touch and a more effortless typing experience, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel and a heavier typing experience may gravitate towards the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Jade. The difference may not be significant, but it could affect the typing or gaming experience for some individuals. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Jade 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 a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience that can be quite satisfying for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound quality is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
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 each keystroke. This light actuation force results in a smooth and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The low-impact typing feel of the Blue Topaz enhances the overall user experience by providing a responsive and comfortable typing sensation. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is unavailable, making it challenging to compare the two switches in this regard.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a smooth actuation, lightweight feel, clacky sound signature, and easy-to-press nature, providing users with a delightful typing experience that is both visually appealing and audibly satisfying. On the other hand, the qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch remain unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. If you enjoy the characteristics of the Blue Topaz, you may find similar results with the Blue Jade, as both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy clicky switch with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Blue Jade could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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