HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Blue Topaz, known for its ultra-smooth actuation and lightweight feel, provides a delightful auditory and visual experience with its eye-catching glitter housing and clacky sound profile. Ideal for users who enjoy a lively typing experience, this switch excels in delivering each keystroke with ease. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a sturdier feel, featuring a unique PA12 top housing that enhances its softer acoustics. Its POM stem contributes to a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those who appreciate a more nuanced and sophisticated typing sound. While the Blue Topaz invites a more playful interaction, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users seeking precision and depth in each keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), one can discern clear differences between their top housings. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate material for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness, leading to a sharper, crisper sound profile during key releases. This rigidity enhances the clarity of sound, making it particularly beneficial for those looking to maximize the impact of RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light transmission. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherently softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a more muted and rounded auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued touch when typing.
Both housings, though different, bring unique attributes to their respective switches that affect overall acoustics. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate bottom housing matches its top in material, thus reinforcing the clarity and brightness associated with its typing sound, while maintaining a consistent auditory experience throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon bottom housing that complements its top by enhancing the roundness and depth of the sound. This synergy means that while the top and bottom housings of both switches offer different sound profiles, they each work together within their respective switch designs to create a cohesive acoustic experience.
Despite the disparities in top housing materials, the bottoms of both the Blue Topaz and the Xinhai (Heavy) share the same nylon composition. This creates a similarity in the overall tonal quality—thus enabling users to experience a fuller and more enriched sound with both switches. Because the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, both models harness the capabilities of nylon to forge a similarity in the tactile feedback and sound when a key is bottomed out. Therefore, even though the top housings lead to distinct auditory differences, the shared nylon bottom creates a bridge between the two, allowing for a balance of characteristics that can be appreciated across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Consequently, the Blue Topaz is the lighter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) is heavier, making it more suitable for typists who appreciate added resistance in their keystrokes. These differences could significantly affect user preference based on their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch with that of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a notable distinction emerges. The Blue Topaz features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Consequently, the Xinhai is more responsive, making it a preferred choice for gamers who favor quicker activation. Conversely, the Blue Topaz, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a deeper and more substantial keypress experience. For those who value responsiveness, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) would be advantageous, whereas users seeking a more tactile and robust feel would likely prefer the Blue Topaz.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 has a distinctive clacky signature that resonates with users who appreciate an auditory feedback that is both sharp and snappy. This crisp and bright sound adds a layer of enjoyment to the typing experience, creating a percussive effect that many enthusiasts find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, which suggests a more subdued sound stage. Its POM stem is designed to provide a higher-pitched resonance, though the overall sound characteristics remain unknown, making it less predictable compared to the more auditory-centric Blue Topaz. The difference in sound profiles may cater to different preferences where some might enjoy a dedicated clacky experience while others might gravitate toward a more refined and less intrusive acoustic environment.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch excels with its easy-to-press design, providing gentle resistance that makes each keystroke feel almost effortless. The light actuation force greatly reduces finger fatigue, allowing for comfortable typing sessions, particularly during prolonged use. The switch promotes a highly responsive typing experience that is particularly appealing to those who spend hours at their keyboards. In contrast, the tactile properties of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch are not detailed, leaving its feel largely unknown. This distinction means that while the Blue Topaz provides a definitive light feel that enhances productivity and comfort, the Xinhai's characteristics remain a mystery, preventing a direct comparison in this department.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different user preferences by emphasizing unique strengths. The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out with its lively clacky sound and incredibly light feel, making it an excellent option for those looking for a vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more refined and potentially quieter sound with a unique material composition, but its tactile experience is yet to be defined. Ultimately, if sound and feel are your primary considerations, the Blue Topaz provides a clearer advantage, while the Xinhai's unknowns might still intrigue those seeking something different.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you find yourself typing for long periods or enjoying a lighter touch, the Blue Topaz’s 48 grams of actuation force offers a smooth and effortless experience, perfect for reducing fatigue during extensive use. Additionally, if you appreciate auditory feedback and the delightful clacky sound, this switch will surely enhance your typing enjoyment, making it great for a fun and engaging workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the 62.5 grams of actuation force in the Xinhai (Heavy) switch provides a satisfying resistance that many users find more reassuring. Its sophisticated acoustics and crisp resonance lend themselves wonderfully to precision in performance, making it an excellent choice for those who value both subtlety and a robust typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you seek a lightweight, enhanced auditory experience, or a firmer touch with refined acoustics.
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