HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the KTT Pine linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out with its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience accompanied by a distinct glitter finish that adds visual appeal and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Pine boasts a medium-heavy weight, buttery smooth feel, and a factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for effortless key travel. While the Blue Topaz is described as 'easy-to-press' and 'clacky', the Pine is characterized as 'bassy', 'buttery', 'creamy', and 'low-pitched'. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically speaking, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz further utilizes nylon in its bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Although both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, the Blue Topaz stands out with its addition of nylon in the bottom housing. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience where the qualities of each material are distinctly felt. The bottom housing, being nylon, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, being polycarbonate, influences the sound when the key is released, adding to the overall crispness and clarity of the typing sound.
In conclusion, while both switches share the advantages of a polycarbonate top housing in creating a sharp sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting, the Blue Topaz's inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing sets it apart from the KTT Pine. This unique combination of housing materials offers a more well-rounded typing experience, with the bottom housing contributing to a deeper sound profile while the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct choices for keyboard enthusiasts. The Blue Topaz boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a nimble typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Pine features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, offering a more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Blue Topaz, while those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Pine. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Pine offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become more popular in recent years, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of the key presses for individuals with a preference for either a more responsive and abrupt key press (Blue Topaz) or a more hearty and deep key press (Pine). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users who enjoy a crisp and bright click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound that resonates with a deeper and richer tone, giving typists a sense of depth and richness as they type away. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the clacky sound of the Blue Topaz or the bassy sound of the Pine, but both switches deliver an immersive sound experience that adds to the overall typing enjoyment.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch boasts an easy-to-press sensation, offering minimal resistance and requiring light actuation force for effortless typing. This smooth and lightweight feel enhances the typing experience, making it comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels seamless, effortless, and uniform. With its factory-lubed finish, the Pine switch minimizes friction for a silky typing sensation that glides effortlessly with each key press. Whether users prefer the easy-to-press feel of the Blue Topaz or the buttery sensation of the Pine, both switches offer a premium typing experience that caters to different tactile preferences.
In conclusion, the Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the KTT Pine offers a bassy sound and buttery, creamy feel for a different typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver smooth actuation and a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel. Whether you opt for the Blue Topaz or the KTT Pine, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances your typing performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preferences for key actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a bassy, low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the KTT Pine switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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