HMX Blue Topaz vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sakura Pink mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with an easy-to-press and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are known for their feather-light 35g actuation force, making them perfect for delicate typists who prefer a buttery, creamy, and frictionless feel. While the Blue Topaz offers a visually appealing glittery housing and clacky sound signature, the Sakura Pink switches produce a playful poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped. 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and Everglide Sakura Pink both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Sakura Pink also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which may enhance the overall sound profile even further compared to the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing.
On the other hand, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sakura Pink's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a noticeable variation in the sound and feel of typing on the switches between the two models.
Overall, while both the Blue Topaz and Sakura Pink share the same polycarbonate top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The split between the qualities of the two housing materials allows for a unique typing experience where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, users may prefer one over the other based on their preference for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Sakura Pink being slightly lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, while the Sakura Pink requires 35 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out. Both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the slight difference in force may be noticeable to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter distance compared to the Sakura Pink. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Sakura Pink with its 4 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key response.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 linear switch is noted for its clacky sound signature, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when keys are pressed. This adds a crisp and percussive element to typing sessions, creating an auditory experience that complements the smooth actuation of the switch. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is described as having a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. The Sakura Pink switches produce a delightfully poppy sound, reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, providing a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. Depending on personal preference, users can choose a switch that aligns with their desired sound profile, whether it be the distinctive clack of the Blue Topaz or the softer pop of the Sakura Pink.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring light force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The smooth actuation of the switch enhances the overall typing experience, providing a responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is described as having a buttery and creamy feel. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The frictionless operation of the Sakura Pink switch ensures a seamless and effortless typing sensation, promoting a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, offering a visually appealing option with smooth actuation. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch provides a muted sound profile and a buttery, creamy feel for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing style and preferences. Whether you opt for the Blue Topaz or Sakura Pink switch, you can expect a satisfying and high-quality typing experience that meets your individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a super smooth actuation and light keystrokes with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter actuation force, a buttery and creamy typing sensation, and a playful poppy sound, then the Sakura Pink switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
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