HMX Blue Topaz vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and TKC Kiwi offer distinct experiences for users. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, boasts a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze. Its unique glitter housing adds a touch of visual appeal while producing a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Kiwi, a tactile switch, provides a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press for a more immersive typing experience. The satisfyingly snappy sound profile and factory lube ensure a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those seeking an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Kiwi appeals to users looking for a stepped, low-pitched, and polished typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a high-pitched resonant sound, ideal for users looking for a clear typing experience. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. While both materials contribute to a vibrant sound profile, the polycarbonate of the Blue Topaz emphasizes clarity, while the UHWMPE of the Kiwi delivers a brighter tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Blue Topaz incorporates nylon, known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller yet rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, mirroring the bright sound signature found in the top housing. This consistency in material between the top and bottom housings of the Kiwi offers a cohesive sound experience, characterized by resonant clacks and a vibrant tone throughout typing sessions.
In summary, the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TKC Kiwi play a significant role in defining their sound profiles. While the Blue Topaz uses polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings, respectively, to create a clear and resonant typing experience, the TKC Kiwi relies on UHWMPE for both housings, resulting in a consistent bright sound signature. Whether opting for the Blue Topaz's stiffer top housing or the Kiwi's newer UHWMPE housing for a lively typing experience, users can expect distinct yet equally satisfying results tailored to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile 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 Kiwi has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a significantly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Blue Topaz for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier forces of the Kiwi for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast response times. Gamers may lean towards the Blue Topaz for its slightly shorter travel distance, giving them a quicker keystroke. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the TKC Kiwi with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a good balance between speed and tactile feedback, with the Blue Topaz being slightly shorter and the Kiwi being slightly longer in terms of 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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding an extra layer of auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a low-pitched, mellow tone that is neutral in its actuation force requirement, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz being more lively and the Kiwi being more soothing.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped feel with two stages of tactility, an accented tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and a polished finish that ensures a sleek and frictionless key travel. These qualities make the Kiwi switch a unique and satisfying option for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a refined touch.
Considering all of the available information, it is evident that the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer contrasting yet equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and easy actuation, the Kiwi stands out with its low-pitched neutral sound profile and stepped, accented tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, but rest assured that both options offer high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a smooth and easy-to-press feel with a light actuation force, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your individual typing style and preferences for the most enjoyable typing experience.
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