HMX Blue Topaz vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Huano Sakura each present unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Blue Topaz is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making every keystroke effortless while delivering a clacky sound signature that adds a satisfying auditory layer to the typing experience. Its distinctive glittery housing also makes it an attractive option for those who appreciate visual flair. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is designed for those who favor extended typing sessions, offering a feather-light touch and medium acoustics that strike a balance between comfort and performance. While both switches are linear and prioritize a smooth keystroke, their distinct auditory and tactile feedback cater to varying user preferences. The choice boils down to whether you want the vibrant auditory experience of the Blue Topaz or the subtle, endurance-oriented feel of the Sakura. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Huano Sakura, it becomes evident that their top housings utilize different materials, resulting in varied sound profiles. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition. This stiffness contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance during key presses. In contrast, the Sakura's top housing is made from POK, or polyketone, which offers a very smooth typing experience due to its lower coefficient of friction. While both materials strive to enhance the user experience, the Blue Topaz leans towards a clearer, more defined sound, whereas the Huano Sakura focuses on smoothness combined with a durable, clacky feel.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, thus aligning in terms of the deeper, fuller sound profile they produce when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate and POK, absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a deeper overall acoustic experience. This shared material choice means that users can expect similar bottom-out sounds and feels from both switches, as the qualities offered by the nylon bottom housing dominate this aspect. Therefore, regardless of the differences observed in their top housings, the nylon component ensures a level of consistency in sound characteristics.
Ultimately, the distinct attributes of the Blue Topaz and Sakura switches can be attributed to their mixed housing materials. While the top housing materials dictate clarity and smoothness in sound and feel, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a robust acoustic signature that is deep and full. When operating these switches, one will experience these combinations of materials in different manners—the polycarbonate top of the Blue Topaz yielding a sharper sound, while the POK top of the Sakura providing a smoother experience. Nevertheless, the commonality in bottom housing ensures that whichever switch one opts for, the fundamental characteristics of typing feel and sound depth will remain aligned, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch with its actuation force of 40 grams and bottom out force of 48 grams to the Huano Sakura linear switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, it's clear that both switches are on the lighter side of the spectrum. The Sakura is the lighter option, requiring less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Blue Topaz. Specifically, users may find the actuation of the Sakura to be slightly easier, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue might be a concern. Conversely, the Blue Topaz, while still light, provides a slightly heavier push which some users might prefer for a more robust typing experience. Both switches share the benefit of having relatively low forces, making them suitable for those who appreciate a softer touch. Overall, while both switches exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, the Sakura offers a marginally lighter experience than the Blue Topaz.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Huano Sakura linear switches, we find that the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Sakura measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This indicates that the HMX Blue Topaz offers a longer travel distance, which might appeal to users who favor a more pronounced key press that can enhance typing feedback. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Huano Sakura may be more attractive to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances typically allow for faster actuation. Ultimately, your choice between these two options will depend on personal preference regarding the depth of the key press and how abrupt or responsive you desire the switch to 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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Blue Topaz and Huano Sakura linear switches, the Blue Topaz is distinctively known for its clacky sound signature. This results in a sharp and snappy auditory experience, characterized by a crisp and bright percussive quality that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, there isn't specific sound feedback available for the Sakura switches, though they are acknowledged to have medium acoustics. The quieter sound profile of the Sakura could lend itself to a more subdued experience, making them potentially less intrusive in quiet environments.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz is celebrated for its easy-to-press characteristics, providing a lightweight touch that requires minimal force to actuate. This gentle resistance makes typing an effortless and comfortable task, effectively minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged usage. The HMX Blue Topaz's smooth actuation enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the Sakura switches are currently unknown, leaving questions about their tactile response and actuation force.
In summary, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch shines with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Huano Sakura's characteristics remain less defined, particularly regarding sound and tactile feedback. Users who prioritize an engaging auditory experience may gravitate towards the Blue Topaz, while those who lean towards a lightweight touch without specific sound preferences might appreciate the Sakura, albeit without the same level of detail. Both switches cater to different user experiences, and for those seeking to combine elements from both, exploring various pairings with keycaps and boards can yield satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Huano Sakura linear switches serve unique purposes that cater to different user preferences. If you value a visually appealing switch with a distinct clacky sound and a super smooth actuation that makes typing feel effortless, the Blue Topaz will likely be your best choice. Its lightweight feel of 48 grams means you can type rapidly without straining your fingers, making it ideal for those who spend long hours typing or gaming while still wanting a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, if your priority is an ultra-light touch for extended typing sessions, the Huano Sakura, with its slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams, might be more suitable. This switch offers medium acoustics, providing a balanced typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue without overwhelming sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs: go for the Blue Topaz for a lively and engaging experience, or choose the Sakura for seamless, prolonged use with a subtler sound profile.
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