HMX Blue Topaz vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, users are presented with two distinctive options. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a visually appealing glittery housing and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, offering a lively and crisp typing experience with a range of tactile qualities like bounciness, creaminess, and polish. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. However, the Blue Topaz uses polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro also utilizes nylon for its top housing, further enhancing the deep and full sound experience.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer a unique sound profile thanks to their choice of housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz creates a more distinct and vibrant sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharper typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Akko V3 Piano Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more muted and rounder typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound quality, providing options for users with varying tastes in their typing experience.
When considering how the top and bottom housings affect the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note the impact of each material on different aspects of typing. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of housing materials in the HMX Blue Topaz and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers users a dynamic typing experience that caters to both the pressing and releasing of keys, creating a well-rounded and engaging typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro needs 55 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down on the keys. This means that the Blue Topaz is lighter overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, whereas the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly heavier touch for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Both switches provide similar results but cater to individuals with different preferences for typing and gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the V3 Piano Pro being slightly shorter than the Blue Topaz. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Piano Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired during typing or gaming.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 profile that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch also provides a clacky sound but with an added resonant quality, offering a higher-pitched and clean sound profile for a more immersive typing experience. While both switches offer a similar clacky sound, the V3 Piano Pro adds a touch of resonance to enhance the overall auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience. The bouncy nature of the switch provides a spring-like feedback, while the creamy and silky textures offer a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The polished finish adds a sleek touch to the typing experience. While both switches offer a smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro provides a more varied tactile experience with its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky qualities.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press actuation, the V3 Piano Pro impresses with its clacky sound combined with a resonant quality and a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between the clear and sharp sound of the Blue Topaz or the enhanced tactile experience of the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth typing experience with their linear design, offering a pleasing typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider your preference in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a smooth, lightweight typing experience with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and enjoy a snappy sound signature with a mix of bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feels, the V3 Piano Pro could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what best fits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing experience.
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