HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out - the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew U4T. The Blue Topaz boasts a smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making it easy to press keys effortlessly with a satisfying clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the U4T offers a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a clacky feel, the U4T caters to individuals seeking a blend of bassy sound and sharp tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew U4T, both switches feature unique materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing focuses on clarity and resonance, the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing emphasizes depth and richness.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer nature. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing mirrors its top housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing materials that absorb sound differently, with the Blue Topaz focusing on creating a rounder sound while the U4T aims for a rich and deep sound experience.
Overall, the housing materials used in the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gazzew U4T play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Blue Topaz combines polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing to create a balance between sharpness and fullness, the U4T utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings to emphasize richness and depth. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the U4T has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is unknown, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Blue Topaz, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the U4T for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz has a shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the U4T's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the U4T being slightly longer. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the U4T. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
The Blue Topaz linear switch provides a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that enhances the typing experience with its crisp and percussive feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound signature, delivering a deeper and richer tone with a satisfyingly deep thud or soft knock upon key presses. While the Blue Topaz focuses on a lighter and smoother actuation for easy typing, the U4T excels in providing a sharp and intense tactile bump for a distinct and responsive feel. Overall, both switches offer unique sound and feel attributes that cater to different preferences, providing users with a delightful typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky smoothness of the Blue Topaz or the bassy tactility of the U4T, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction in auditory and tactile feedback based on your personal preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super smooth and lightweight feel with a glittery housing that produces a clacky sound, then the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, then the U4T switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, sound profile (clacky vs. bassy/thocky), and typing feel (easy-to-press vs. sharp) to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what will enhance your typing experience and bring you the most satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
