HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Peach mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Blue Topaz is praised for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a breezy typing experience. With its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature, it appeals to those looking for both visual and auditory delight in their keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its feather-light typing experience and silenced operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and polished feel while typing. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
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 Peach, we first note that both switches have polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant sound of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Peach features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blue Topaz. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Peach switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Blue Topaz and the Peach utilize nylon bottom housings, which further contribute to the switches' overall sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housings of both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile to be achieved when typing. However, due to the different top housings used in each switch, the overall sound experience may vary between the two. The Blue Topaz, with its polycarbonate top housing, may offer a crisper sound upon release of the key, while the Peach, with its nylon top housing, may provide a more muted sound upon key release.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Peach share nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper sound profile, their top housings set them apart. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Peach's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. These key differences in housing materials result in unique typing experiences for each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the richer sound of nylon in your mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch have very similar actuation forces, both requiring 40 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz is lighter at 48 grams compared to the Peach at 50 grams. This means that while both switches are considered light in terms of actuation force, the Peach requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Topaz may be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a firmer push feel, the Peach may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and whether a lighter or slightly heavier bottom out force is desired.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, we see that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Peach has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Peach has the shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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 experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. In contrast, the Outemu Peach linear switch offers a neutral and muted sound profile, making it a quieter option suitable for various environments. Both switches have their own distinct auditory characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound output. However, with the right combination of keyboard casing and keycaps, users can achieve similar sound profiles with either switch.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation. This light actuation force enhances typing by reducing finger fatigue and allowing for a comfortable and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. With a polished finish, users can expect smooth key travel and reduced friction when using the Peach switch. While the feel of these switches may differ slightly, both provide a comfortable typing experience for users to enjoy.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Peach linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Peach offers a muted sound and a polished, gentle typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feedback, users can choose between these switches to customize their mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and a lightweight feel with a beautiful housing design and clacky sound, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a very lightweight and silent typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, the Outemu Peach could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience and aesthetics that best suit your preferences.
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