HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we see two distinct options with their own unique characteristics. The Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight touch, providing users with an easy and enjoyable typing experience. Its visually appealing housing with glitter accents adds an extra touch of aesthetic pleasure to the clacky sound it produces. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a quieter typing experience, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Its cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback make it a comfortable and polished option for users seeking a more 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, we can see some key differences. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a slightly higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. However, both switches offer a similar high-pitched sound profile, albeit with slight differences in tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blue Topaz uses a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black also utilizes the proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, providing a similar high-pitched sound profile that complements the top housing material. Both switches offer a unique sound experience based on their choice of bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing. While the Blue Topaz and Silent Ink Black may have different top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Blue Topaz offer a sharp and clear sound profile, while the proprietary INK blend in the Silent Ink Black provides a slightly higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In the end, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of actuation force and 48 grams of bottom out force, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls on the medium to heavy side. This means that the Silent Ink Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. For users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Blue Topaz switch would be the more suitable choice. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each keyboard.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance for mechanical keyboards. The Blue Topaz offers a quicker response time due to its slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black provides a tad more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable and satisfying for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming 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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 known for its clacky and percussive sound when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. The Silent Ink Black switch minimizes noise output while still providing a smooth typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This switch provides a low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The cushion-like bottom-out feel of the Silent Ink Black switch adds to the overall comfort of typing on this keyboard.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a quieter and more refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Topaz or the Silent Ink Black, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a light actuation force, smooth actuation, and a clacky sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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