HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Semi Mute, both linear switches with distinct features. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering users a seamless typing experience with a clacky sound signature and visually appealing glitter housing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is perfect for those seeking a noise-free environment, thanks to its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology for undisturbed typing. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for easy-to-press and clacky typists, the Semi Mute is preferred by those who appreciate a buttery, mild, and muted 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
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Semi Mute both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for switches where sound quality is a priority. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the semi-mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may result in variations in typing sound and feel between the two switches.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, their bottom housings differ in material, affecting the overall sound profile of each switch. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. This indicates that the bottom-out sound and feel of the Blue Topaz may be different from that of the Semi Mute, providing users with options based on their preference for typing experience.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in determining the sound and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for each component can significantly influence the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, understanding how each material contributes to the switch's performance is essential for selecting the right switch for individual preferences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial push feel during typing. The weight of the switches plays a significant role in how they feel to the user, with some preferring the lighter weight for extended typing sessions and others opting for the heavier weight for a more tactile experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the KTT Semi Mute linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being on the shallower end and the Semi Mute being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Semi Mute with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 produces a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy quality that adds a sense of satisfaction to each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a muted sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Semi Mute switch's neutral characteristic also makes it versatile for various environments. When considering sound alone, users can expect a distinct auditory experience with the Blue Topaz and a more subtle, subdued sound with the Semi Mute.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch offers an easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is gentle and approachable to most users. The mild characteristic of the Semi Mute also ensures a comfortable typing experience without being too overwhelming. Users can benefit from the low-impact feel of the Blue Topaz and the smooth, buttery feel of the Semi Mute for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing feel, while the Semi Mute impresses with its muted sound and buttery typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Additionally, if users prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, either switch can provide similar results, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and smooth actuation, along with a visually appealing and clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment with a silent operation, and desire a comfortable and gratifying typing experience with a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, then the KTT Semi Mute switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter keypress with a clacky sound or a quieter, smoother typing experience.
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