HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to ponder are the HMX Blue Topaz, a linear switch, and the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch. The Blue Topaz stands out for its exceptionally smooth actuation and feather-light touch, ensuring effortless keystrokes for users. Its housing, adorned with eye-catching glitter, not only looks striking but also produces a satisfyingly clacky sound with each press. On the other hand, the Tom offers a different typing experience with its tactile feedback, which provides a subtle bump upon actuation. While the Blue Topaz is praised for being easy-to-press and clacky, the Tom's specific characteristics are yet to be further explored. 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
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
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 HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Tom both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, both switches with polycarbonate top housings offer a visually appealing design.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Blue Topaz and the Tom feature nylon materials. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite utilizing different materials for the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar typing experience with the nylon material enhancing the overall sound profile.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the qualities of the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. While the housings may differ in material, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Tom offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch with an actuation force of 55 grams, making the Blue Topaz easier to trigger for keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz also requires less force at 48 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blue Topaz switch offers a softer and smoother typing experience compared to the Tom switch, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Tom switch with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz switch. The shorter travel distance of the Tom switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blue Topaz switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired 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 Tom 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 comparing the sound qualities of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, the Blue Topaz offers a clacky sound signature that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This sharp and snappy sound adds a level of satisfaction to each keystroke, providing auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Tom switch are unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, offering a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The gentle resistance during keypresses enhances the overall typing experience, providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Unfortunately, the tactile qualities of the Outemu Tom switch are not specified, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out with its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, offering both visual and auditory delight to users. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Tom tactile switch are lacking, making it difficult to provide a comprehensive comparison. However, if the Tom switch offers similar characteristics to the Blue Topaz, users can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a tactile touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preference for a light actuation force and smooth typing experience. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a distinctive glitter design and clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are open to exploring different tactile feedback, the Tom could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, so take into consideration the unique characteristics of each switch before making your choice.
Mentioned in this article
