HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Ocean offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience. With a housing adorned with glitter that adds a touch of visual appeal, this switch also emits a satisfying clacky sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Ocean, a tactile switch, does not boast any specific standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. While the Blue Topaz falls under the category of 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Ocean falls under an unknown category. Whether you prefer a smooth and light typing experience or crave tactile feedback, these switches offer varying benefits. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Ocean both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, where the Blue Topaz stands out is in its nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Ocean's nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds a unique dimension to the typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, both the Blue Topaz and the Outemu Ocean benefit from the clear polycarbonate top housing, which is visually appealing and conducive to RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the overall sound profile of both switches, creating a more distinct typing experience. However, where they differ is in the choice of bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing a different auditory experience compared to the Ocean's nylon bottom housing. This variation in bottom housing material allows for a more diverse range of sound options for users to choose from.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Blue Topaz results in a unique sound profile that blends the sharpness and clarity from the top housing with the depth and fullness from the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean's uniform use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing may provide a more consistent sound experience from top to bottom. Depending on personal preference, users may appreciate the distinct sound qualities offered by the Blue Topaz's dual housing materials or opt for the consistent sound profile of the Ocean. Both switches offer high-quality construction and customizable RGB lighting options, making them suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams to bottom out, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The Blue Topaz offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those who need to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Ocean provides a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster actuation, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Ocean switch with its slightly longer travel distance. In general, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound signature that is sharp, snappy, and noticeable with every key press. This characteristic provides a satisfying auditory feedback to the user, adding an extra layer of engagement to the typing experience. On the other hand, not much is known about the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation. This lightweight feel makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing the strain on the fingers during prolonged use. The smooth actuation of the Blue Topaz switch also contributes to a pleasant typing experience, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Ocean switch are not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, offering a delightful typing experience to users. While details about the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are limited, it is safe to say that both switches may provide similar results in terms of key feel if the user is looking for a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump and a switch with a bottom out force that is not available, the Ocean may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you as you type.
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