HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, there are distinct differences in their key features. The Blue Topaz is known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, with a distinctive glitter housing that adds a visual appeal to every keystroke. Its clacky sound signature provides an auditory delight to users, making it a popular choice for those who prefer an easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean does not have any standout features mentioned. While the Blue Topaz offers a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound, the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains a mystery in terms of its distinguishing characteristics. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clear and resonant quality of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches produce similar sound profiles due to their shared top housing material, differences may arise in the feel and sound upon key release.
In contrast, the bottom housing material for the Blue Topaz is nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. Similarly, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, allowing for a deeper and fuller typing experience. The different bottom housing materials between the two switches may result in variations in bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profiles. The Blue Topaz offers a crisper sound with a deeper resonance due to nylon in the bottom housing, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a similar sharp sound profile with a softer, fuller typing experience. The combination of different housing materials in each switch allows for a unique typing feel and sound signature that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear 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, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Topaz for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will 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, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Dustproof Silent Ocean for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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, producing sharp and snappy sounds with each keystroke. This sound quality adds a tactile element to typing, enhancing the overall user experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to compare it to the Blue Topaz in terms of auditory feedback.
In the realm of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This feature contributes to a smooth typing experience, making it effortless and comfortable to type for extended periods. The lightweight feel of the Blue Topaz switch also reduces finger fatigue, ensuring a more enjoyable typing session. As for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, the information on its tactile feel is unavailable, making it challenging to compare to the easy-to-press nature of the Blue Topaz.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, based on the available information, users can expect similar smoothness and comfort when typing. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best fit for individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light actuation force of 48 grams, a smooth and effortless typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound, and a visually appealing glittery housing, then the Blue Topaz switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams and are looking for a silent typing experience without any specific sound signature mentioned, then the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what factors matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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