HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Phoenix offer unique features catered to different typing preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. Paired with a visually striking glittery housing and a satisfying clacky sound, this switch offers a sensory experience like no other. On the other hand, the Phoenix clicky switch boasts a distinctive under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crunchy and polished typing experience with a crystalline sound profile. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound, the Phoenix caters to users seeking a crunchy and polished feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Phoenix, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This allows for a more resonant sound that is especially accentuated when used with RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz differs by having a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound quality of the top housing. This distinction in housing materials results in a split of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The Blue Topaz's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Phoenix's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing ensures a consistently sharp and clear sound profile. Depending on whether one prefers a crisper sound with resonant qualities or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch showcase their differences in weight. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Phoenix, whose actuation force is unknown. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Blue Topaz at 48 grams is also lighter than the Phoenix, which has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Blue Topaz ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Phoenix provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Blue Topaz may appeal to those who value a bit more depth in their keystrokes, while the Phoenix could be preferred by users who enjoy a slightly snappier feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an auditory delight to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchier sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, creating a unique and satisfying typing sound profile. The sound produced by each switch will ultimately be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press quality, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the contrary, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch boasts a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel and comfort for users.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique click mechanism that offers a crunchy sound and a polished feel for smooth key travel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a great option. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In wrapping up your decision between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and smooth keystrokes with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force, a unique clicky sound profile, and a polished typing experience, the Phoenix switch is the way to go. Consider how each switch aligns with your typing preferences and choose the one that enhances your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences, so trust your instincts and go with the one that resonates with you the most. Happy typing!
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