HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, one notable difference lies in their actuation. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, boasts a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean, also a linear switch, lacks a distinct feature but still offers a smooth keystroke. The Blue Topaz's distinctive glitter housing adds a touch of visual appeal and pairs with a clacky sound signature, while the Silent Ocean's quieter operation may be more suitable for those working in noise-sensitive environments. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Silent Ocean switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant display. Both switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housings, making them suitable choices for those looking for a clear and resonant sound profile.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Blue Topaz and Silent Ocean switches are made of nylon, a softer plastic that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches enhances the typing experience by providing a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Silent Ocean switches offer a balanced combination of qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, they differ in the use of nylon for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches deliver unique characteristics that cater to various preferences in switch feel and sound.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are quite different. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Silent Ocean, while those who prioritize lighter switches may opt for the Blue Topaz. Overall, the Blue Topaz is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent Ocean, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Silent Ocean switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance. In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz may offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of key travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual typing preferences.
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 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 well-known for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a comfortable typing experience. The distinctive glitter housing adds visual appeal, while the clacky sound signature offers auditory satisfaction with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound and feel qualities.
When it comes to sound, the Blue Topaz switch generates a clacky noise, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. However, as mentioned earlier, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so individual experiences may vary. As for the Silent Ocean switch, there is no information provided about its sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch is praised for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions and enhances the overall typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. In contrast, details about the tactile feel of the Silent Ocean switch remain unknown.
While the specific characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are unclear, if you enjoy a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch may be a suitable choice for you. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, so it is essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light keystroke with smooth actuation and a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Silent Ocean might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing style and preferences, so make sure to consider all factors before making a decision.
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