HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Sea Salt Lemon mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer their own unique features and benefits. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making each keystroke effortless. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also provides a clacky sound signature, appealing to both visual and auditory senses. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design by KTT. With a low-pitched and mild feel, these switches provide a neutral typing experience. 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
53g
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
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. With similar top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches when typing.
However, the bottom housings of the Blue Topaz and Sea Salt Lemon differ, with the Blue Topaz utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Sea Salt Lemon also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption qualities. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this housing material for the bottom, users may notice a slight variation in sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
In terms of functionality, the combination of different housing materials in the Blue Topaz and Sea Salt Lemon allows for a unique typing experience. The qualities attributed to each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound and feel when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. By understanding the properties of the housing materials in each switch, users can appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and tactile feedback between the Blue Topaz and Sea Salt Lemon.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams of force, while the Sea Salt Lemon needs 53 grams, making the latter slightly heavier in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Blue Topaz, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a slightly more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Sea Salt Lemon being on the higher end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress depth may gravitate towards the Sea Salt Lemon. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what type of keypress experience each individual user is seeking.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is best suited for users looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a distinct clacky sound profile. The Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery smooth typing feel and a neutral, low-pitched sound. While the Blue Topaz offers easy-to-press keys that reduce finger fatigue, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a mild typing experience that caters to a wider range of users. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before deciding between the two. If you prefer a light and clacky sound with easy-to-press keys, the Blue Topaz is the way to go. However, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing feel with a neutral and low-pitched sound, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that can enhance your overall comfort and productivity while using a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound with easy-to-press keys, then the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a low-pitched and neutral sound, and a mild typing experience, then the Sea Salt Lemon could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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