Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, users often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options, each with its unique advantages. The Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, stands out for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for quiet environments like offices. With a medium-heavy weight, it delivers a satisfying keystroke feel, catering to those who appreciate distinct typing feedback without disrupting their surroundings. In contrast, the HMX FJ400, a linear switch, serves as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a balanced sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience. While the Aliaz prioritizes muted performance and tactile sensation, the FJ400 emphasizes fluidity and consistency in every press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preferences—whether you lean towards the engaging feedback and stealth of the Aliaz or the smooth, uninterrupted motion of the FJ400. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and HMX FJ400 switches exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Aliaz features polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housings, a choice that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of the material. This stiffness allows for a more resonant sound profile, particularly beneficial for users who appreciate clarity in their typing experience. In contrast, the FJ400 uses POM for its top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound. The difference in material impacts not only the auditory experience but also how the switch interacts with RGB lighting; the clear polycarbonate top of the Aliaz enhances the illumination compared to the opaque POM top of the FJ400.
Exploring the bottom housings reveals further contrasts in construction and sound production. The Aliaz also incorporates polycarbonate in its bottom housing, reinforcing its signature bright sound profile across both components. This consistency across both housings means that users can anticipate a thorough experience emphasizing clarity and resonance when using the Aliaz. The FJ400, however, employs a nylon bottom housing, appreciated for its classic feel, which softens the sound profile by absorbing more noise. This divergence emphasizes the Aliaz's sharper acoustic qualities versus the FJ400’s characteristically deeper tones, delineating two differing philosophies in switch design: one that prioritizes clarity and brightness and another that emphasizes a softer, more muted typing experience.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials underscore how each switch can cater to diverse preferences. With the Aliaz, the polycarbonate's consistent impact shapes the overall typing experience by offering a clearer and more vibrant sound profile, while the FJ400's split properties—a combination of POM and nylon—cultivate a more nuanced auditory experience that is warmer and more subdued. Users can expect different sound dynamics and tactile feedback depending on which switch they choose, thus underscoring the importance of housing materials in switch design and user experience. Both switches encapsulate how varied materials can influence not only the performance but also the aesthetic appeal and functionality of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the FJ400 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can facilitate longer typing sessions without as much effort. This makes the FJ400 better suited for those who prioritize comfort during extended use, such as in work or gaming settings. Overall, the Aliaz's heavier forces provide a firmer feedback, while the FJ400's lighter touch offers a more effortless keystroke experience, thus highlighting the distinct preferences of different users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Aliaz measures at 4 mm, while the FJ400 is slightly shorter at 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Aliaz offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy the tactile feedback and depth of a fuller key press. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the FJ400 aligns well with the preferences of gamers who seek quicker response times and more rapid key actuation. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards responsiveness and prefer a snappier feel, the HMX FJ400 would be the better choice; however, if you favor a more substantial keypress experience with a hearty depth, the Gateron Aliaz would suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 Gateron Aliaz switches are designed to be notably muted, making them an ideal choice for quiet environments such as offices. Their silent design minimizes the clacky sound commonly associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX FJ400 linear switches is balanced, but specific descriptors are not provided. Both switches’ sonic characteristics will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap materials used, meaning that individual setups could yield different auditory results for each switch.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches stand out with a silky and polished typing experience. The silky quality of the switch contributes to an exceptionally smooth operation, reducing resistance during key presses and releases, while the polished finish ensures minimal friction and a refined overall feel. The HMX FJ400, however, lacks detailed descriptors regarding its tactile experience, so it's harder to provide a direct comparison in this area.
In summary, while the Gateron Aliaz switches shine with their muted sound and smooth, polished feel suited for quieter environments, the HMX FJ400 provides a balanced auditory profile that may cater to those who enjoy a neutral experience without specific overpowering characteristics. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the choice between them will largely depend on personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and HMX FJ400 linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself in a quiet office environment, value muted keystrokes, and appreciate a heavier tactile response, the Aliaz is an excellent choice. Its 75 grams of bottom-out force may make it feel more substantial, providing you with that pronounced feel without the accompanying noise that could disrupt colleagues. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more effortless typing experience with less resistance, the FJ400's 58-gram actuation allows for quick and nimble key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or programming sessions. With its balanced sound profile, the FJ400 is also versatile for those who may be concerned about noise but still want a satisfying and smooth linear switch. Ultimately, consider your environment, typing style, and personal tactile preferences to choose the switch that best enhances your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
