HMX Blue Topaz vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Strawberry both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation and light touch, providing a seamless typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch boasts smooth actuation, comfort, and reliability, with a low-pitched and frictionless feel. While the Blue Topaz is known for being easy to press and clacky, the Strawberry is described as silky, buttery, and polished. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the KTT Strawberry, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz also includes a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience and sound when using the switches.
On the other hand, if the top and bottom housings are the same, as seen in the case of the Blue Topaz, both the top and bottom of the switch will feature the characteristics of polycarbonate. This means that users can expect a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile throughout the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry's split housing materials may provide a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials highlights the importance of material choice in creating a unique typing experience.
Overall, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Strawberry feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Blue Topaz distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, from sound profile to tactile feedback. Whether the housing materials are the same or different, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the characteristics of its housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, which is also lighter compared to the Strawberry's 62 grams. Those who prefer a light and easy typing experience may lean towards the Blue Topaz, as it provides a smooth keystroke with minimal force. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them well-suited for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the KTT Strawberry. Overall, both switches offer a balance between the traditional 4.0mm and the shallower 3.0mm travel distances, providing a versatile option for different preferences.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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 experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a low-pitched tone, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Blue Topaz delivering a crisp and bright sound, while the Strawberry offers a more subdued and deep tone.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the Blue Topaz focusing on light actuation force and the Strawberry emphasizing smoothness and effortless key presses.
Overall, while the HMX Blue Topaz and KTT Strawberry linear switches have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to enhance the typing experience for users. The Blue Topaz excels in offering a lightweight and clacky typing experience, while the Strawberry stands out for its smooth and frictionless feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Additionally, both switches are designed to provide reliable performance and comfort for extended typing sessions, ensuring a satisfying keyboarding experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a visually appealing and clacky sound signature, you may want to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with smooth and frictionless typing feel that offers a low-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch might be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure that you select the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns most closely with your desired typing experience.
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