HMX Blue Topaz vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Blue Topaz linear switch is celebrated for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple tactile switch features a satisfying tactile bump that enhances typing feedback. While the Blue Topaz is known for its clacky sound signature and ease of use, the Polaris Purple offers a snappy sound profile and a polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for a smooth linear typing experience or a tactile typing feedback. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches share the polycarbonate top housing, the Blue Topaz diverges by using nylon for its bottom housing. This choice of material gives the Blue Topaz a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Blue Topaz and Polaris Purple switches offer a unique typing experience. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, while the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings is a crucial factor in determining the overall sound and feel of each switch. When typing on these switches, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In essence, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound quality. However, the inclusion of nylon in the Blue Topaz's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, distinct from the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials determines the overall sound and feel of each switch, offering users a unique typing experience based on their material composition.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch differ significantly. The Blue Topaz has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, with an unknown actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Blue Topaz more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may gravitate towards the Polaris Purple due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Blue Topaz catering to those who prefer a lighter feel and the Polaris Purple catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we see that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Purple being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that will provide a satisfying 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 experience with its sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing intents and purposes. The sound of both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, but overall, users can expect a distinct clacky sound from the Blue Topaz and a more neutral sound from the Polaris Purple.
Moving on to feel, the HMX 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 other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Additionally, its polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Blue Topaz emphasizes light and easy typing, the Polaris Purple focuses on providing a polished and approachable typing experience for most users.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel, while the Polaris Purple offers a neutral sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver satisfying results based on the preferences of the user.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, clacky sound, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a sharp tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience.
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