HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch stand out for their unique features. The Blue Topaz is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with an effortless typing experience. It also boasts a visually appealing housing with a glittery finish, coupled with a clacky sound signature that adds a tactile element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch does not have any standout features mentioned, but it is categorized as a clicky switch. If you're looking for an easy-to-press switch with a clacky feel, the Blue Topaz may be the way to go. 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
80g
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 Dustproof Green both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the two switches differ. The Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the Dustproof Green also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and rounder sound. While the top housing may impact the sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing plays a bigger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct characteristics in their housing materials. While they share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, their differing nylon bottom housings provide unique typing experiences. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing or a deeper sound with the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer quality materials for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both regards. With an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, the Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more substantial option. The weight of these switches is crucial to consider based on personal preference. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Blue Topaz for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier push feel of the Dustproof Green for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, we can see that the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Dustproof Green has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Green has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may provide a different feel when typing, with the Blue Topaz feeling slightly more responsive than the Dustproof Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a keyboard.
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 Dustproof Green 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 auditory experience that adds a satisfying element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth actuation and lightweight feel that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The low actuation force required for these switches ensures minimal finger fatigue during extended use, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is unknown, so a direct comparison in this aspect cannot be made.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, clacky sound signature, and easy-to-press nature, providing users with a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is lacking in terms of sound and feel, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure optimal satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth, lightweight actuation with a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier key with a clicky feel, the Dustproof Green may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you seek.
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