HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches, but offer different experiences for users. The Blue Topaz is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. With a distinct glittery housing and clacky sound signature, it appeals to users who value both visual and auditory aspects in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch is known for its durability with a dustproof design, providing long-lasting functionality. While the Blue Topaz is described as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Dustproof Red does not have any specific characteristics listed. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches both feature polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance of the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz and the Dustproof Red differ in their bottom housing materials. The Blue Topaz utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile as the Blue Topaz.
While both the Blue Topaz and the Dustproof Red switches have polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide unique characteristics to each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Dustproof Red, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. This difference in sound profile based on bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the Blue Topaz offering a deeper sound profile while the Dustproof Red may provide a slightly different typing sensation.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings that result in a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Red. Depending on personal preference, users may find one switch's sound profile more appealing than the other. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, showcasing the importance of material selection in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch reveals a difference in weight. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Dustproof Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Blue Topaz offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Red, which provides a more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Blue Topaz, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, while those seeking a heavier push may lean towards the Dustproof Red for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable options for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press 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 Dustproof Red 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, offering users a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This characteristic adds a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions and can enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's sound quality is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing a smooth actuation and a lightweight feel that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force can make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The lack of information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch makes it challenging to assess how it compares to the Blue Topaz in terms of typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, offering users a pleasant and responsive typing experience. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is limited, it is important to consider the subjective qualities of sound and feel when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your preferences. Considering the similarities in terms of being linear switches, it is likely that both switches will provide a similar level of performance and user experience in general use.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a bottom out force of 48 grams, along with a clacky sound signature that adds both visual and auditory delight to your typing experience, then the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and prioritize dustproof features without any specific sound or feel preferences mentioned, then the Dustproof Red might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities, whether it be a lighter touch and unique aesthetic appeal with the Blue Topaz, or a slightly heavier feel and dustproof feature with the Dustproof Red. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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