TTC Brother vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother and the HMX FJ400 present two compelling yet distinct options tailored to different user preferences. The TTC Brother is a clicky switch celebrated for its lightweight feel and satisfying tactile feedback; with an actuation force of just 37g, it delivers a delightful "crunch" with each keystroke, promoting an engaging typing experience. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate auditory cues and a tactile sensation, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy the symphony of clicks while typing. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 is a linear switch known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, providing a serene typing experience without the interruption of sound or tactile feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer silent operation, such as programmers or writers who work in quiet environments. While both switches have their merits, offering unique sensory experiences, it's essential to consider how each aligns with your typing style and environment. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and HMX FJ400 switches differ prominently in their top housings but share a commonality in their bottom housings, which significantly influences the overall sound profile of the switches. The TTC Brother features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer material allows for greater resonance and clarity, making it particularly suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Conversely, the HMX FJ400 is equipped with a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. The softer quality of POM results in an audio experience that leans towards warmth, creating a foundation that contrasts with the brightness of the polycarbonate top.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which solidifies their intrinsic properties when it comes to sound. As a classic material in the keyboard switch market, nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound effectively due to its softer composition. This shared characteristic allows both the Brother and FJ400 switches to maintain a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, regardless of the top housing differences. This means that while the top housing influences the clarity and brightness of the sound during key release, the nylon bottom contributes a depth that rounds out the overall auditory experience.
Ultimately, the design of each switch capitalizes on the unique properties of their respective top housings while aligning in terms of bottom housing material. If two switches utilize different top housing materials, their combined auditory experience will reflect the blend of qualities from both. In this case, when typing on the TTC Brother, users may experience crispness from the polycarbonate combined with the fullness of the nylon bottom, while the HMX FJ400 will deliver a uniquely muted sound paired with the depth from the same nylon base. Thus, even with differing top materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users will still appreciate a rich and satisfying sound profile, emphasizing the significance of housing material in customizing the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though the bottom out force for the Brother switch is not specified. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, ideal for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Additionally, the FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a clear feedback when a key is fully pressed down, while information about the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unavailable. This suggests that users opting for the HMX FJ400 may appreciate the added resistance and feedback from the heavier weight, whereas the TTC Brother offers a lighter touch for more effortless key presses. Overall, those seeking comfort and longevity might lean towards the lighter Brother switch, while enthusiasts desiring a stronger push should consider the FJ400.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the TTC Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX FJ400 measures 3.8 mm. This means that the Brother is the shorter option, offering a slightly more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial and hearty key press that might be favored by users who appreciate a deeper typing experience. For those seeking faster response times, the TTC Brother switch's shorter travel distance could be the better choice, whereas the HMX FJ400 would suit individuals who enjoy a fuller travel sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch truly shines with its distinctive crunchy auditory signature. This sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, delivers a delightful auditory feedback that many clicky switch enthusiasts crave. It's a satisfying experience that resonates well in an office or gaming setting, creating an immersive typing atmosphere. In contrast, the HMX FJ400's sound profile is characterized as balanced, though specific details about its audio qualities are not provided. The absence of further descriptors implies that while the FJ400 may lack the punchy click of the Brother, it still produces a sound that is likely refined and unobtrusive, catering to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch offers an easy-to-press activation with a gentle resistance, making it remarkably comfortable for extensive typing sessions. The lightweight actuation force of 37g ensures a seamless experience, while the tactile bump provides a subtle yet distinct feedback that enhances the typing process without overwhelming the user. Additionally, its stepped tactile design allows for a nuanced response, giving typists a sense of both pre-travel and post-travel movement. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the HMX FJ400 remain unknown, leaving it uncertain how it compares in this regard. However, one can infer that it likely provides a smooth and consistent experience typical of linear switches without any tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and HMX FJ400 linear switch cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Brother excels in sound and tactile feedback, creating a lively and engaging typing experience. Conversely, while the FJ400’s sound profile is balanced and its feel remains unspecified, it likely offers a smoother actuation suitable for users who prefer a quieter, linear experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique advantages, and the choice between them hinges on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback versus a more muted and linear approach.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy an engaging typing experience, the Brother switch is the clear choice. Its lightweight design and satisfying crunchy sound make it perfect for typists who appreciate auditory and tactile stimulation, allowing for hours of comfortable typing without the risk of finger fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, quieter feel while typing, or if you're using your keyboard in a shared workspace where noise is a concern, the FJ400 linear switch may be more suitable. With a medium bottom-out force, it offers a balanced typing experience that’s less intrusive, ideal for those who prioritize speed and finesse over tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the distinctive feedback of a clicky switch or the smooth continuity of a linear option.
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