HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX FJ400 both cater to users who appreciate linear actuation but offer distinct experiences that set them apart. The Blue Topaz switch is celebrated for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making every keystroke feel effortless. Its eye-catching glittery housing not only adds a unique visual flair but is complemented by a clacky sound signature that provides auditory satisfaction for those who enjoy a little noise with their typing. On the other hand, the FJ400 strikes a balance within the HMX Film switch lineup, boasting a more reserved, yet equally pleasing, sound profile that some users may prefer for a quieter typing environment. Each switch offers its own set of advantages: the Blue Topaz for those who love tactile feedback and a bit of flair, and the FJ400 for users seeking a harmonious typing experience with less distraction. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX FJ400 utilize two distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly impacts their acoustic characteristics. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucence, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. This property is particularly beneficial if the switch incorporates RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for an enhanced visual effect. Contrarily, the FJ400 sports a POM top housing, recognized for producing a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Blue Topaz's use of polycarbonate emphasizes clarity, thereby making it excellent for bright, vibrant auditory cues, whereas the FJ400 leans towards a more subdued auditory experience, catering to those who prefer a less pronounced sound.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Blue Topaz and FJ400 utilize nylon, which serves as a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic highlights the enduring appeal of nylon in switch designs, as it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a sound profile that is both rounded and rich. The similarities in bottom housing material mean that the typing experience—how the switches feel and sound when they are pressed down—will be comparable between the two models. Users can expect a consistent depth to the sound regardless of the top housing differences, as the nylon bottom will absorb and dampen the sound effectively in both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches produces distinct auditory effects based on the interaction of the top and bottom housings. While the Blue Topaz leverages the sharper sound qualities of polycarbonate to provide a crisper release sound, the FJ400's POM top fosters a deeper, more muted signature. However, since both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, the overall feel during typing remains consistent, giving users a familiar depth in sound during key presses. This division of acoustic properties means that while the top housing dominates the sound upon release, the deep, full tone generated by the nylon bottom ties both models together, allowing enthusiasts to experience similarly pleasing results through different auditory aesthetics.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz and HMX FJ400 linear switches present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended periods or gaming sessions. In contrast, the FJ400 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, catering to those who relish a more substantial and tactile feedback when typing. Therefore, for users who prioritize a lighter switch, the Blue Topaz would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a firmer push would prefer the FJ400. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces indicate that while both switches serve varying preferences, they do not yield similar results in terms of force requirements, with the Blue Topaz being the lighter option and the FJ400 being relatively heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Blue Topaz measures 3.9 mm while the FJ400 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference, albeit minimal, means that the Blue Topaz offers a more pronounced keypress that some users may find more satisfying, particularly those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the FJ400's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it potentially more suitable for gaming or fast-paced tasks. While both switches yield a distinct typing experience, the Blue Topaz would be the choice for users seeking a heftier actuation, whereas the FJ400 would appeal to those who prefer a snappier engagement.
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 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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX FJ400 linear switches, the Blue Topaz shines with its distinctive clacky sound signature. When pressed, it produces a sharp, bright, and percussive noise that could be enjoyable for users who appreciate a more auditory feedback from their typing experience. In contrast, the FJ400 is noted as offering a balanced sound profile, though specific descriptors are not provided. This balance suggests a less pronounced auditory presence, making it potentially more suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a subtle sound during typing. However, both switches may exhibit varying sound characteristics influenced by the choice of keyboard housing and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz excels with its super smooth actuation and lightweight resistance, making each keystroke incredibly effortless and reducing finger fatigue, especially during long typing sessions. This gentle resistance enhances overall comfort and responsiveness, appealing to typists looking for a highly enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, no specific details are provided about the feel of the FJ400 switch, leaving it unclear how it compares to the Blue Topaz. Assuming it is indeed a middle ground switch, it may offer a decent typing experience but may not provide the same effortless feeling that the Blue Topaz is celebrated for.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and HMX FJ400 linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Blue Topaz is characterized by its clacky sound and light, easy-to-press actuation that enhances typing comfort, while the FJ400 offers a more balanced sound profile but lacks detailed descriptions regarding its tactile feel. Users looking for an engaging auditory experience and a smooth typing action would gravitate towards the Blue Topaz, while those who prefer a more understated sound may find the FJ400 appealing. Ultimately, both switches promise to deliver satisfying experiences according to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, your individual preferences and typing habits will play a crucial role. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and an effortless typing experience, the Blue Topaz is the ideal choice, particularly for long typing sessions or if you prefer less resistance with every keystroke. Its clacky sound signature and smooth actuation make it perfect for those who enjoy both auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a more balanced and slightly firmer typing experience, the FJ400 offers a medium bottom out force that may better suit your needs. Its sound profile is less pronounced, making it a more subdued option for quieter environments or professional settings where noise levels are a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the atmosphere in which you most frequently use your keyboard, guiding you toward the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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