HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Silent Green offer unique characteristics to consider. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a distinctive glittery housing that adds visual appeal. On the other hand, the Silent Green is also a linear switch but is noted for its lack of specific standout features. The Blue Topaz is best suited for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a clacky sound, while the Silent Green remains more of a mystery in terms of its standout features. 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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Blue Topaz and the Silent Green switches both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches is especially beneficial for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. However, the Blue Topaz stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Silent Green features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the switch.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the nylon of the Blue Topaz resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate in the Silent Green. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, with the stiffer polycarbonate of both switches contributing to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Silent Green switches share the use of polycarbonate material in their top housing for a sharper sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout. Understanding the influence of top and bottom housing materials on switch sound and feel allows users to make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz requires an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Silent Green switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a medium level of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Blue Topaz, while individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel may opt for the Silent Green. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical keyboards. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. However, some users may find the Silent Green more comfortable due to its slightly longer travel distance providing a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile typing experience.
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 Silent Green 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, providing users with a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each key press. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying element to the typing process. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering a lightweight feel and smooth actuation that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The low actuation force required by these switches reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, ultimately enhancing the overall typing experience for users. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Silent Green switch is not specified, making it challenging to compare it directly with the Blue Topaz in this regard.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, clacky sound signature, and visually appealing glitter housing. While the qualities of the Outemu Silent Green switch are not fully detailed, if it shares similar characteristics with the Blue Topaz in terms of feel and sound, users can expect a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Silent Green switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
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