HMX Blue Topaz vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a distinctive glitter housing that adds visual appeal and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is praised for its fast and precise typing experience, with light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick actuation. The Speed Silver offers a more neutral and polished typing experience compared to the clacky nature of the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing needs, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help determine the best switch for your specific requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Speed Silver switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing composition. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar acoustic effect to the Blue Topaz.
When comparing the housing materials of the Blue Topaz and Speed Silver switches, it becomes evident that their performance is influenced by the different properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharp sound profile, particularly noticeable when releasing a key. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz contributes to a deeper and fuller typing sound, while the same material in the Speed Silver produces a similarly rounded sound profile. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall sound experience of mechanical switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Speed Silver switches showcase the importance of material selection in determining sound quality. While both switches employ polycarbonate for the top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing introduces varying levels of sound absorption and depth. Whether it's the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller tones of nylon, each material plays a crucial role in defining the overall sound profile of mechanical switches. By carefully considering the qualities of different housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing feel. The actuation force of the Blue Topaz is lighter, while the Speed Silver is slightly heavier, offering users the option to choose based on their preference for a lighter or more substantial typing experience. Both switches will provide similar results when it comes to actuation and bottom out force, making them suitable options for different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver. The shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver may offer a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Blue Topaz may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that the user is looking for in their keyboard.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The Blue Topaz linear switch is renowned for its distinctive clacky sound profile that provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience for users. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The reduced travel distance of the Speed Silver allows for quick and effortless actuation, resulting in a pristine sound profile that is both efficient and pleasing to the ear.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The moderate level of resistance of the Speed Silver switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing a visually appealing and clacky typing experience with super smooth actuation, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch stands out for its fast and precise typing capabilities and pristine sound profile. Users looking for a more visual and tactile experience may prefer the Blue Topaz, while those seeking efficiency and speed may lean towards the Speed Silver. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a distinctive visual and auditory experience, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance and a light-medium level of resistance, the Speed Silver could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your specific needs and preferences to optimize your typing enjoyment.
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