HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz offers a smooth and lightweight linear typing experience that is both easy to press and clacky, providing a visually and audibly satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out with its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep sound profile, offering a snappy and bassy typing experience that is both polished and buttery. While the Blue Topaz is known for its easy actuation and clacky sound, the Quinn excels in providing a precise tactile bump and rich, immersive sound. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Blue Topaz and Gateron Quinn both use nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a similar deep and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb sound. However, the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Quinn's nylon top housing. The difference in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound, as opposed to the softer nature of nylon, which creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides translucency for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting effects. This distinction in material choice for the top housing can impact the overall look and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences in design and customization options.
While both switches share similar bottom housing materials, the difference lies in their top housing choices, affecting the overall sound and appearance of the switches. Whether a user prefers the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon will ultimately come down to personal preference. However, it's important to consider how each material contributes to the overall typing experience and whether RGB lighting capabilities are a priority when choosing between the Blue Topaz and Gateron Quinn switches.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Quinn switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Quinn's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Blue Topaz, with its slightly longer travel distance, may offer a slightly more substantial feel when typing compared to the Quinn. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 HMX Blue Topaz switch offers a clacky and percussive experience, perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and resonant sound that adds depth and richness to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Blue Topaz being more on the sharp side while the Quinn leans towards a deeper and immersive sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Blue Topaz switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, combining responsive feedback with a smooth and refined keystroke. Both switches excel in providing a tactile experience that enhances the typing feel for users, whether they prefer a light and effortless press or a more lively and accented tactile bump.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Blue Topaz stands out with its smooth actuation and clacky sound, while the Quinn impresses with its crisp tactility and bassy, resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Whether you prioritize a light touch with smooth actuation or a tactile bump with a rich sound, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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