HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch. The Blue Topaz is widely recognized for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a seamless typing experience. Its distinctive glitter housing adds a touch of visual appeal while the clacky sound signature offers auditory delight. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch lacks a specific standout feature but falls into the tactile category. When choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer an easy-to-press and clacky switch like the Blue Topaz or a tactile typing experience like the Milk Tea. 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
N/A
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
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Milk Tea, we see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. Both switches share the usage of polycarbonate in the top housing, resulting in similar qualities in sound production and aesthetics.
However, when looking at the bottom housing materials, we see a difference between the two switches. The Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Similarly, the Milk Tea also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound compared to harder plastics.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Blue Topaz and Milk Tea switches offers a unique sound profile that balances sharpness and clarity with depth and resonance. While they differ in the specific sound qualities produced by each housing material, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the brighter sound signature of the Milk Tea or the clearer sound profile of the Blue Topaz, users can expect a high-quality and distinct sound when typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile 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 Milk Tea has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Topaz make it a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Milk Tea, with a slightly higher actuation force, may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing weight and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz offering a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster actuation, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Milk Tea. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feedback 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 Milk Tea 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
In terms of sound, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This sound is characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing experiences. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also helps reduce finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The responsive and low-impact typing feel of the Blue Topaz enhances the overall typing experience for users. Unfortunately, the specific tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch is unknown, so a direct comparison in this aspect cannot be made.
Considering the information provided, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, clacky sound profile, and easy-to-press nature. While the qualities of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remain unknown, if you are looking for a switch with similar characteristics to the Blue Topaz, you may want to consider factors such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound profile to determine if it aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to try them out firsthand to see which one fits your typing style best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth actuation with a lightweight feel and enjoy a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a tactile feedback and are indifferent to bottom out force, the Milk Tea could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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