HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Blue Topaz offers a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze with its easy-to-press keys and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts a lightning-fast actuation with its all-POM construction, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. Both switches have their own unique benefits that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is evident that they both prioritize sound quality and aesthetics. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This is in contrast to the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While the materials differ in their sound profiles, both are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, with the Blue Topaz showcasing a clearer sound and the Smoothie Silver offering a more subdued tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also delivers a deep and muted sound, which complements the top housing's characteristics. Despite the differences in materials, both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing materials that enhance the overall typing experience. Whether it's the softer nylon of the Blue Topaz or the POM of the Smoothie Silver, each housing material brings a unique sound profile to the switch.
Overall, the difference in housing materials for the Blue Topaz and the Smoothie Silver contributes to their distinct sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in sound quality, impacting both the actuation and release of keys. While the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer sound upon key release, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing offers a deeper and more subdued tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver both contribute to a fuller sound profile, further enhancing the typing experience on each switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Blue Topaz is also lighter at 48 grams, although the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Blue Topaz may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and want to avoid fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz has a longer travel distance at 3.9 mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times and may be favored by gamers seeking a more rapid key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding 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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 sound signature, providing users with a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a deep and muted tone that some users find to be more satisfying. Both switches have unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific sound profile you prefer.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is highly praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, offering a comfortable and responsive typing feel that is favored by many users. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the decision between them depends on whether you prioritize ease of typing or smoothness of key presses.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch have their own unique qualities that set them apart. Whether you prefer the clacky sound and easy actuation of the Blue Topaz or the thocky sound and smooth touch of the Smoothie Silver, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a super smooth actuation with a lightweight feel, along with a visually striking design and clacky sound, then the Blue Topaz would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing sensation and auditory feedback you prefer when using your keyboard.
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