HMX Blue Topaz vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky V3 both stand out for their unique features and performance. The Blue Topaz linear switch is revered for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, ensuring a seamless typing experience with a visually striking glitter housing and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, catering to a wide range of typing preferences with a balance of comfort and precision. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Sky V3 is perfect for users seeking a neutral, subdued, and mild 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
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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 HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky V3 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to being a relatively stiffer plastic, polycarbonate helps create a clear and resonant sound that is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, both switches are likely to feature a clear housing due to the translucency of polycarbonate. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent sound profile and overall typing experience from both the Blue Topaz and the Sky V3.
On the other hand, the Blue Topaz and the Sky V3 differ in their bottom housing materials. The Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Sky V3 also features a nylon bottom housing, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and texture. The usage of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing sound that emphasizes a deeper and fuller tone.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Dareu Sky V3 showcase a balance of housing materials that contribute to a unique typing experience. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in the bottom housing material, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing, or the release sound from the top housing, users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience that combines the qualities of both housing materials in the Blue Topaz and the Sky V3.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, both have an actuation force of 40 grams, resulting in a similar initial typing experience. However, the Blue Topaz has a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Sky V3, whose bottom out force is unknown. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing feel between the two switches. Some users may prefer the lighter bottom out force of the Sky V3 for extended typing sessions, while others might opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Blue Topaz for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times. However, the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3, which may provide a more responsive feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V3's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 offers a distinctively clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a neutral sound signature with a subdued undertone, making it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they prefer a more muted sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference and typing environment.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for a smooth and effortless typing experience. This enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact feel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in the middle ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences in key feel and actuation force.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for users who prefer a distinctive auditory experience and light actuation force. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a mild feel, appealing to a wide range of users seeking a balance between comfort and precision. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches, as they both offer smooth linear actuation and comfortable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound with easy-to-press switches, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound with a mild typing experience, the Sky V3 could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and comfort levels. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
