HMX Blue Topaz vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two contenders that often capture the interest of enthusiasts are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Blue Topaz stands out as a linear switch, celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight design that makes every keystroke feel effortless. Accompanied by a distinct glittering housing and a clacky sound signature, it appeals to users who seek both visual flair and auditory satisfaction during their typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employs a hall effect mechanism, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature that resonates with the "thock" sound coveted by many enthusiasts. This switch also boasts a dustproof stem, which minimizes wobble and enhances the overall feel, making it a prime choice for users who prioritize a refined tactile sensation without sacrificing performance. While both switches offer unique benefits suited to different typing preferences, 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share similarities in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate, which contributes to a distinctly sharp and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonance and clarity of the sounds produced by the switches, making both switches an appealing choice for those who prefer a higher-pitched auditory feedback. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate top housings allows for effective RGB lighting effects, ensuring that both the Blue Topaz and Sticky Rice (V2) can achieve visually striking displays when illuminated, which adds an extra layer of customization for users who value aesthetics alongside performance.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge in their implications on sound quality and overall feel during usage. Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) feature nylon bottom housings, lending each switch a deeper, fuller sound profile owing to nylon's soft plastic properties. This material absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a more muted, rounder auditory experience upon key presses. Because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect similar experiences in terms of bottom-out sounds, ensuring that the warm, muffled acoustics will carry through on both models.
When it comes to performance and user experience, the combined effects of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing materials in both switches allow for a balanced auditory landscape. While the Blue Topaz emphasizes clarity and brightness in sound release due to its top material, the Sticky Rice (V2) mirrors these qualities with its similarly constructed top housing. Meanwhile, the nylon bottoms of both switches provide a consistent feel in terms of sound damping during key presses. Therefore, despite certain aesthetic or branding differences between the two models, users can anticipate comparable sound signatures and tactile feedback, resulting in a satisfying typing experience across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both exhibit similar actuation forces of 40 grams, making them equally suited for those who appreciate lightweight switches that facilitate longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. However, the bottom-out forces differ slightly, with the Blue Topaz at 48 grams and the Sticky Rice (V2) at 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches require the same amount of force to register a key press, the Sticky Rice demands a marginally greater force when fully depressed, resulting in a slightly heavier overall feel for users. Therefore, those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience may be inclined towards the Sticky Rice (V2) for its heavier bottom-out force, while the Blue Topaz may appeal to those seeking a lighter typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a lightweight actuation, but the minimal difference in bottom-out weight could sway preference depending on the user's typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there is a notable difference: the Blue Topaz has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Topaz offers a more traditional feel, providing a greater depth that some users prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker response times, which can be particularly beneficial for gaming. Therefore, while both switches serve different preferences, the Blue Topaz is the longer option, appealing to those who appreciate a hearty depth, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal for users seeking a snappier response.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch delivers a clacky auditory experience, characterized by its sharp and snappy tones that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive with every keystroke. This sound profile adds an expressive quality to typing, appealing especially to those who enjoy an engaging acoustic response. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a more neutral sound signature that leans towards the "thock" enthusiasts adore. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Blue Topaz’s clacky resonance is very different from the subtle depth of the Sticky Rice, making them appealing to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz is particularly notable for its lightweight and easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This allows for a comfortable and responsive typing experience, which can help reduce finger fatigue during extensive use. The effortless actuation of the Blue Topaz contributes to a smooth typing rhythm. On the other hand, while the detailed feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) isn't specified, it is highlighted that the switch features a super smooth keystroke facilitated by a dustproof stem that reduces wobble. This suggests a refined and controlled typing sensation, although it may differ markedly from the easy-going nature of the Blue Topaz.
In summary, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out with its clacky sound and lightweight feel, fostering an engaging and easy typing experience. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by its more subdued "thock" sound and the potential for a polished keystroke feel, creating a unique typing experience that may prioritize refinement over playfulness. While both switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, trying either could lead to a satisfying finish, depending on whether one prioritizes auditory excitement or a clean, smooth typing motion.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and style. If you enjoy a light touch and crave a fun, engaging experience while typing, the Blue Topaz is an excellent choice. Its super smooth actuation and clacky sound signature will bring a sense of joy to your daily tasks, particularly if you appreciate a keyboard that offers a bit of flair in both sound and aesthetics. This switch excels in situations where comfort and low effort are priorities, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and balanced keystroke with a neutral sound profile, the Sticky Rice (V2) is a compelling alternative. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force provides just enough resistance for a more controlled feel, appealing to those who enjoy a satisfying "thock" sound and a stable, wobble-free typing experience. This switch shines in both productivity and gaming scenarios, offering a blend of comfort and sophistication. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal taste in sound, feel, and the type of activities you engage in most frequently.
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