HMX Blue Topaz vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky POM, both of which are linear switches. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, which makes typing a breeze. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also provides a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is crafted entirely from POM material, offering premium quality at a more accessible price point. It is known for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Sky POM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general descriptions to help you make the best decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky POM exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique sound profile compared to the Blue Topaz. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, both switches use this classic material to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound for both switches.
In terms of sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the POM top housing of the Sky POM offers a deeper and more muted sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite these differences in sound characteristics, both switches offer a pleasing typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Blue Topaz and Sky POM switches create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz delivers a clearer and resonant sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharper sound profile. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Sky POM appeals to those seeking a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Topaz and Sky POM will come down to personal preference in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch are quite different. The Blue Topaz has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Blue Topaz would be considered lighter compared to the Sky POM, unless the bottom out force of the Sky POM is heavier. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Blue Topaz for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push of the Sky POM for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are more sensitive to these nuances, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the Sky POM. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 offers a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched and mellow tone, giving a more bass-heavy sound to keystrokes. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharpness of the Blue Topaz or the mellowness of the Sky POM to suit their typing style and environment.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is uniform and effortless. Users seeking a seamless typing feel may prefer the Sky POM for its smoothness and comfort.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and easy actuation, the Sky POM stands out for its smooth and buttery typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prioritize sound sharpness and ease of pressing (Blue Topaz) or prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience (Sky POM). Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups will allow users to determine which switch better suits their typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a lightweight and easy-to-press switch with a distinct clacky sound and beautiful glittery design, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch crafted entirely from POM material that offers a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth typing experience with a gentle actuation force and a clacky sound, the Sky POM switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing feel when making your decision between these two unique switches. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
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