HMX Blue Topaz vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and Jerrzi Violet offer distinct features for different typing preferences. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, is known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing ease with every keystroke. It gives off a clacky sound signature and is easy-to-press, making it a great choice for those who prefer a sleek and visually stunning typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, offers a smooth actuation with a pleasingly poppy tactility. Its neutral sound signature and stepped design provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Violet, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. However, the Blue Topaz further distinguishes itself by using a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon material absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, creating a rounder and duller sound profile.
While both the Blue Topaz and Jerrzi Violet share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the contrasting nylon bottom housings set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with a rounder sound. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound quality, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and contributing to a duller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing sound and feel of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience for users. While both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Violet feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their contrasting nylon bottom housings result in different sound characteristics. Whether preferring a deeper and fuller sound (Blue Topaz) or a duller and rounder sound (Violet), users can choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch. The Blue Topaz requires a actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue Topaz, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Violet may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Blue Topaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more comfortable depth for those who prefer a less abrupt feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the tactile feedback that each switch provides.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound signature can add an element of satisfaction to each keystroke, creating an engaging auditory feedback for the user. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and preferences. The lack of a distinct sound can make typing with these switches less intrusive and more versatile for different environments.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force can make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Jerrzi Violet switch, on the other hand, provides a stepped tactile experience, with a more subtle tactile bump that is not as pronounced as hyper-tactile switches. This can offer a gentler tactile feedback for those who prefer a more moderate tactile sensation.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, the Blue Topaz may appeal to those who enjoy a clacky sound and easy-to-press switches, while the Violet may be more suitable for those who prefer a neutral sound and a stepped tactile feel. However, it is important to note that individual typing experience can vary based on factors such as keyboard build, keycap material, and typing style. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person can provide a better understanding of how they would perform in a real-world typing scenario.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, you can consider a few key factors. If you prefer a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gentle tactile feedback with a pleasingly poppy tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Violet switch might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prioritize an easy-to-press switch that requires minimal force to activate, the Blue Topaz would suit you well. However, if you prefer a stepped switch with a more subtle tactile feel, the Violet switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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