Durock Black Lotus vs. HMX FJ400

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX FJ400 linear switches offer compelling benefits, appealing to different typing preferences. The Durock Black Lotus is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and precision, complete with a moderate 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Its innovative design minimizes housing and stem wobble, enhancing the overall typing experience, while the unique light column adds an aesthetic touch with customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 represents a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, boasting a balanced sound profile that can cater to users who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback while typing. Although both switches share a linear design that provides a smooth keypress without tactile bumps, their unique characteristics make each switch better suited for different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

HMX FJ400 Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and HMX FJ400 switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which contributes to their distinct tactile experiences and sound profiles. The Black Lotus features a modified PC (Polycarbonate) and UPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) blend top housing. This blend gives it a unique and premium feel that leads to a sharper sound response when keys are released. In contrast, the FJ400 uses a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer high-quality experiences, the modified PC and UPE blend of the Black Lotus may provide a more pronounced acoustic feedback upon release, while the POM of the FJ400 offers a softening quality that dampens its overall sound.

Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, a classic choice known for its unique sound characteristics. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows for the absorption of sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience in both the Black Lotus and the FJ400. Since both bottom housings are made from nylon, they contribute similarly to the overall sound profile, enhancing the dull and rounded sound that typists often seek. This shared material ensures that irrespective of the differences in the top housing, users can anticipate a consistent auditory experience between the two switches, particularly in the way the bottom-out sound feels and sounds when the keys are pressed down.

When considering the overall impact of each switch's materials, it becomes clear that the differing top housings between the Black Lotus and the FJ400 play a crucial role in defining their sound dynamics. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the fullness and depth of sound that users experience upon pressing the keys. Meanwhile, the distinct top housing materials offer unique tactile sensations when releasing the keys: the premium feel of the Black Lotus's modified blend contrasts with the muted softness of the FJ400's POM housing. Collectively, these materials influence the switches’ overall feel and sound, allowing users to select a switch based on their preference for either a pronounced or subdued sound profile, while still benefiting from the rich auditory experience provided by the nylon bottom housing.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, while the FJ400 has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it the more suitable choice for those who prefer a gentler keystroke, especially during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out forces, the Black Lotus again presents a heftier push at 63.5 grams compared to the FJ400's 58 grams, reinforcing the heavier feel of the Black Lotus switches. Consequently, the FJ400 is lighter overall, making it more comfortable for extended use, while the Black Lotus might appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if users seek a switch that feels lighter for long durations, the FJ400 would be the better option; however, those who enjoy a firmer typing feel would gravitate towards the Black Lotus.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, it is evident that they differ, with the Black Lotus featuring a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the FJ400 has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This slight difference in travel distance can influence the overall typing experience; the Black Lotus may provide a more substantial and deeper feel when pressed, which some users might find more satisfying, while the FJ400's shorter distance caters to those who prefer a more responsive action, allowing for quicker key presses that are often favored by gamers. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper, more traditional feel or a faster, more abrupt response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switches are characterized by a pleasant, muted noise that enhances their smooth performance, making them ideal for both typing and gaming without being overly distracting. The sound profile is balanced, allowing for a subtle auditory feedback that complements the tactile experience without being intrusive. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 has a more pronounced sound that sits in the middle of the HMX Film switch lineup, aiming for a balanced sound profile that can resonate well with various typing styles. While specific auditory qualities for the FJ400 aren’t detailed, it is designed to provide a satisfying sound that appeals to many users, although the ultimate acoustics will also depend on factors like the keyboard build and keycap selection.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switches truly stand out with their silky and buttery smoothness. Users experience an exceptionally fluid keystroke which minimizes any resistance during key presses, creating a gentle, mild typing experience suitable for extended use. The polished nature of the Black Lotus further enhances this experience, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek key travel. In comparison, the tactile descriptions for the HMX FJ400 are not provided. However, one can anticipate that its balanced design aims to strike an appealing middle ground, potentially offering a smooth feel that aligns with the preferences of a broad range of keyboard enthusiasts.

In summary, both the Durock Black Lotus and HMX FJ400 linear switches promise unique yet enjoyable experiences, with the Black Lotus shining through with its silky feel and more subtle sound profile. The FJ400, while it may offer a distinct sound, aims for a balanced auditory experience and possibly a commendable typing feel, though the latter is less defined. Ultimately, if you choose either switch, you are likely to enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience, making them both excellent options in the linear switch category.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth, silky, and polished typing experience, the Black Lotus is an excellent option due to its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, which provides a substantial feel while minimizing wobble for maximum precision. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a more tactile experience with a gentle sound profile, making it suitable for both intense typing sessions and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and a balanced sound profile, the FJ400 can serve as a versatile middle ground in your mechanical keyboard journey. This switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more understated sound and feel, making it perfect for an office environment or for those who are new to mechanical keyboards and seek a comfortable typing experience without strong characteristics. In summary, choose the Black Lotus for a more luxurious feel and the FJ400 for a balanced, approachable typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more