HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Yellow Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch that stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a comfortable typing experience. With its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz not only looks visually appealing but also offers an auditory delight to users. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is also a linear switch known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Yellow Silver is categorized as 'Neutral'. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, the Blue Topaz has a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Yellow Silver also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile.
The difference in housing materials between the two switches lies in the bottom housing, where nylon is utilized for both the Blue Topaz and Yellow Silver. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. When typing on these switches, the qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing will be felt in the deeper sound profile, while the impact of the top housing will be more noticeable when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a unique blend of sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, while the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Yellow Silver share similarities in their top housings made of polycarbonate, they diverge in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. The Blue Topaz provides a combination of a sharper top sound with a fuller bottom sound, while the Yellow Silver offers a crisper top sound paired with a rounder bottom sound, both influenced by the properties of the respective housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the type of sound profile desired during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter in both aspects. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Yellow Silver is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Blue Topaz provides a softer and easier typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Yellow Silver offers a slightly firmer and more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience should opt for the Blue Topaz, while those desiring a slightly heavier feel may prefer the Yellow Silver.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, just slightly shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Blue Topaz offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for faster key presses during intense gameplay. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, which can be more satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing feel.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 is known for its distinctive clacky sound, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience that can be satisfying to typists and gamers alike. The glittering housing of the Blue Topaz not only catches the eye but also contributes to its unique sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users who may prefer a quieter typing experience. The sound produced by both switches may vary based on factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth actuation and lightweight feel that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The minimal force required to activate the switch reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is not available.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile (favorable for a wide range of users) but lacks information on its specific feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfactory results, ensuring a enjoyable keyboarding experience whether for work or play.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a super smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, opt for the Blue Topaz switch. This switch is ideal for those who want an easy-to-press keyboard with a light actuation force of 48 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and neutral sound profile, suitable for both gamers and typists looking for speed and responsiveness, the Yellow Silver switch is the way to go with its 55-gram bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best keyboard experience.
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