HMX Blue Topaz vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves at a crossroads between different tactile experiences, and two notable contenders in this realm are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Blue Topaz linear switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making fast typing effortless and enjoyable. Its unique glittering housing and distinct clacky sound signature provide both an aesthetic appeal and an engaging auditory experience for those who appreciate a touch of flair. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor offers a tactility that is not just pronounced but also harmoniously balanced; with its thuddy and punchy sound profile, it enhances the typing experience while delivering satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced. For those who prefer a smooth, fast-paced typing experience, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice, while users seeking a more tactile and character-rich experience may gravitate toward the Viola Tricolor. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches both feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This inherent quality of the material ensures clarity in sound, making it suitable for keyboards that utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. Aesthetically, both switches align closely in terms of design; the clear nature of polycarbonate housing amplifies the visual effects of dynamic lighting, where the brilliance of RGB shines through, enhancing user engagement through both sound and light.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Blue Topaz and the Viola Tricolor utilizes nylon, a material renowned for its softer characteristics. This leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing—qualities associated with nylon’s ability to absorb sound more effectively than stiffer materials like polycarbonate. The use of nylon for the bottom housing contributes to a rounder and duller auditory experience, which contrasts with the sharper treble provided by the polycarbonate top. The interplay between these two materials produces a balanced sound profile, allowing users to experience a rich, full-bodied sound when bottoming out the keys, while simultaneously enjoying a higher-pitched sound upon release.
Ultimately, while both the Blue Topaz and Viola Tricolor switches share their choice of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom, their sound profiles exemplify a perfect blend of crispness and depth. The familiar materials ensure that the auditory and tactile experience remains consistent across both models. By combining the sharper characteristics of polycarbonate from the top with the mellow tone of nylon from the bottom, both switches are designed to create a harmonic typing experience characterized by clarity and resonance, appealing to enthusiasts seeking both aesthetic visuals and auditory pleasure.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to various typing preferences. The Blue Topaz features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended work sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor does not have a specified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial typing feel, appealing to users who appreciate a stronger push when typing. Overall, the Blue Topaz is the lighter switch, whereas the Viola Tricolor provides a more robust tactile experience, making them appealing to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch exhibit slight differences in their travel distances, with the Blue Topaz measuring 3.9 mm and the Viola Tricolor at 3.8 mm. This makes the Viola Tricolor the shorter option and the Blue Topaz the longer switch. While both travel distances are relatively close to the traditional 4.0 mm, the shorter distance of the Viola Tricolor may provide a slightly quicker response time, which is often favored by gamers seeking rapid keystrokes. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience might appreciate the additional 0.1 mm depth of the Blue Topaz. Overall, whether one opts for the more responsive feel of the Viola Tricolor or the deeper engagement of the Blue Topaz, either choice reflects contemporary trends towards varied travel distances in mechanical switches.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 distinctively clacky sound profile that ensures a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. This clackiness not only complements the smoothness of the switch but also adds an exciting auditory layer to the typing experience, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a lively sound. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch boasts a deeper and bassy sound, characterized by a rich, low-pitched tone that can provide a satisfying presence without being overly intrusive. This thuddiness adds a dimension of resonance to each keystroke, contributing to a more robust typing experience, albeit in a different auditory realm compared to the Blue Topaz.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch shines with its lightweight actuation and ease of pressing, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions as it demands minimal force and minimizes finger fatigue. This effortless typing experience is particularly appealing for users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted flow while typing. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor offers a tactile experience that balances pronounced feedback with an invigorating sensation. Its medium tactility allows for a satisfying “thump” on actuation, providing enough resistance to be engaging without overwhelming the user. This invigorating feel, combined with a moderate actuation force, creates a typing dynamic that can be stimulating and enjoyable for those who appreciate pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide uniquely enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Blue Topaz is ideal for users who love a bright, lively auditory cue paired with an incredibly smooth typing feel, while the Viola Tricolor appeals to those seeking a deeper, resonant sound along with tactile feedback that is both pronounced and invigorating. Both switches ultimately exemplify how personal preference in auditory and tactile qualities can dramatically influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lightweight feel for extended typing sessions, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice, combining an easy-to-press action with a smooth linear response that minimizes finger fatigue. This switch, with its eye-catching glittery housing and clacky sound signature, is perfect for those who appreciate a fun and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you seek a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper sound profile, the Viola Tricolor will likely suit you better. Its medium-heavy actuation force ensures a satisfying, invigorating keystroke that balances auditory depth with a pleasant tactile response, making it ideal for users who appreciate a bit more substance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize the smoothness and lightness of the Blue Topaz or the defined feedback and richer sound of the Viola Tricolor.
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