HMX Blue Topaz vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the SP-Star Yanyu are two popular options to consider. The Blue Topaz linear switch is recognized for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze with a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu linear switch is ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods, offering a crisp sound profile for a more subtle and polished typing feel. While the Blue Topaz is known for being easy to press and clacky, the Yanyu is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiff nature that enhances resonance. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing provides a more unique and pleasant sound that leans towards the brighter side. Both materials add their own flavor to the sound produced, catering to different preferences among users.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Topaz offers a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, while different in composition, still provides a pleasant sound that is not overly sharp. These bottom housings play a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, adding a tactile element to the typing experience that complements the top housing material.
Overall, whether the top and bottom housings are the same or different, the combination of materials in each switch contributes to a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences. While the Blue Topaz offers a more defined and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Yanyu provides a more balanced and brighter sound with its unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that both switches are on the lighter side. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Yanyu has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams. In terms of weight, lighter switches like these are favored by users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, some users may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both the Blue Topaz and Yanyu switches would not be the ideal choice for those seeking a heavier push feel. Overall, while both switches offer a light typing experience, the Blue Topaz is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Yanyu has a slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Yanyu switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers who seek faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in the Yanyu feeling slightly more substantial when pressed compared to the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This type of sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a hint of thocky characteristics. This means that the Yanyu switch has a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments and preferences. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, so keep that in mind when considering sound quality.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a mild and feathery typing experience. These characteristics make the Yanyu switch approachable and comfortable for most users, striking a balance between gentle resistance and light touch. The Yanyu switch's polished finish further contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing overall comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, offering a delightful typing experience with smooth actuation and lightweight key presses. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a more delicate and approachable typing experience with a neutral sound profile and feathery feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Topaz or Yanyu switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and a lightweight feel with a distinctive glittery housing and clacky sound, the Blue Topaz would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience with a mild and feathery feel, along with a material blend that offers a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
