HMX Blue Topaz vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Hutt offer unique features and benefits to consider. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall appeal. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt is a tactile switch that boasts a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, delivering a satisfying typing experience with a balanced sound profile. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Blue Topaz being easy-to-press and clacky, while the Hutt is described as snappy, invigorating, sharp, accented, and resonant. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Hutt, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While the top housings are the same, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Hutt also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar sound characteristics.
Despite the similarities in the top housing material of polycarbonate, the differences in the bottom housing material of nylon between the Blue Topaz and the Hutt result in varying sound profiles for each switch. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Hutt's nylon bottom housing has a similar effect. The impact of the bottom housing on the sound profile and feel when pressing down on a key is crucial in determining the overall typing experience for both switches. Although they may have the same top housing material, the nuances of the bottom housing material play a significant role in the sound produced by each switch.
In conclusion, the use of polycarbonate for the top housing in both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Bsun Hutt results in a consistent sharp and clear sound profile with the added benefit of compatibility with RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing material, with the Blue Topaz featuring nylon and the Hutt also utilizing nylon, affects the sound produced when typing on each switch. The softer and sound-absorbing properties of nylon in the bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience, making each switch unique in their own right. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall sound profile and typing feel of the keyboards they are used in.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz and Bsun Hutt switches have similar actuation forces, both requiring 40 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blue Topaz is slightly lighter at 48 grams compared to the Hutt's 49 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. While the slight difference in bottom out force may be noticeable to some users, overall, both switches offer a relatively light and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Blue Topaz is slightly longer in travel distance, offering a bit more depth when pressed compared to the Hutt. However, both switches provide a relatively similar experience due to their similar travel distances, making them suitable choices for those looking for a balance between responsiveness and key feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference for the slight variation in 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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides a resonant sound profile, featuring a higher-pitched and clean sound that contributes to an immersive typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz emphasizing a clacky sound and the Hutt focusing on a resonant tone.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch boasts an easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal force required for key presses. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is described as snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. These qualities contribute to a tactile typing sensation that is lively and engaging, making each keypress more dynamic and satisfying.
In conclusion, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, offering users a seamless and visually appealing typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch impresses with its medium-heavy spring, prominent tactile bump, and balanced sound profile, delivering a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience that is both responsive and engaging. While the Blue Topaz and Hutt switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, both provide unique and satisfying typing experiences that cater to a variety of user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy spring with a prominent tactile bump and a resonant sound profile, the Hutt switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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