Bsun Cliff vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of tactile versus linear options. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, is renowned for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a noticeable feedback with each keystroke, enhancing both typing comfort and accuracy. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400, classified among the HMX Film switch lineup, serves as a middle ground that provides a balanced sound profile, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer smooth, uninterrupted key presses without the added resistance of tactile feedback. While the Cliff might be ideal for those who favor precision and a satisfying auditory experience, the FJ400 caters to users looking for speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the HMX FJ400, a distinct divergence can be observed in their choice of top housing materials. The Bsun Cliff utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, predominantly due to its stiffer composition. This feature not only ensures a pronounced sound clarity but also enhances the visual appeal of the switch, especially when RGB lighting is implemented, since polycarbonate's translucency allows the light to diffuse beautifully. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing. POM contributes a deeper and more muted sound profile, creating a strikingly different acoustic experience that some users might find more pleasing and unique. Thus, the two switches exhibit fundamental differences in their top housing materials, resulting in varied sound outputs when used.
On the other hand, both the Bsun Cliff and the HMX FJ400 share a commonality in their bottom housing material—nylon. This unifying choice reveals that both switches aim to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile for the user. Nylon's softer composition enhances sound absorption, which results in a duller and rounder auditory experience regardless of the top housing variation. As typing occurs, the performance of the nylon bottom housing remains consistent between the two switches, providing a familiar and rich sound quality during use. Consequently, while the top housings yield different acoustic characteristics, the nylon bottom housing ensures that the overall typing experience maintains a sense of cohesiveness, contributing to similar auditory outcomes in both switches.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Cliff and the HMX FJ400 allows for a rich blend of sound profiles, even when they diverge at the top housing level. The top housing’s choice heavily influences the release and peak sound during key presses, while the nylon bottom housing molds the fundamental sound experienced at the key's bottom-out. For users who focus primarily on the typing feel and sound, the complementary nature of the nylon material ensures a deeper experience in both switches. Thus, even though the Bsun Cliff and the HMX FJ400 diverge in their top housing selections, the inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing allows them to yield an overall fulfilling auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch to the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for extended typographical tasks without causing excessive fatigue. In contrast, the FJ400 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer, particularly those who like a firmer feel while typing. Therefore, those who adopt the Bsun Cliff will enjoy a lighter touch which could facilitate longer usage periods, while the HMX FJ400 may cater to individuals looking for more resistant feedback under their fingers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preferences for typing feel and comfort during long sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, we find a notable difference in their specifications. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, appealing to users who prefer a quicker actuation for fast response times, particularly beneficial for gamers. On the other hand, the FJ400's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who favor a deeper and more tactile experience. This difference can influence user preference significantly, as the shorter travel distance of the Cliff may feel more abrupt, while the FJ400 allows for a more pronounced feedback during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is noted for its crisp sound signature, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This characteristic makes it a great choice for users who enjoy a pronounced acoustic response while typing. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for its balanced sound profile, which means it tends to produce a more muted and smooth auditory experience compared to the sharper pop of the Cliff. While both switches aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, they cater to different sound preferences—those who enjoy a clearer, more distinct sound might prefer the Cliff, while others looking for lower noise levels might find the FJ400 to be more suitable. It's also important to remember that factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap material can further influence the sound produced by either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by medium tactility, offering a noticeable bump during actuation. This tactile feedback can greatly enhance typing accuracy and can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 linear switch provides a smooth and consistent keypress without any tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer a fluid typing motion without interruptions. Thus, the Cliff offers a more engaging tactile sensation while the FJ400 delivers a seamless and consistent feel that many gamers and typists find appealing.
Overall, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch have their unique attributes in sound and feel that cater to different user preferences. The Cliff is ideal for those seeking a more tactile experience accompanied by a crisp auditory feedback, while the FJ400 satisfies users who favor a smooth and quieter typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style; however, both can deliver satisfying results tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a lightweight typing experience with a clear tactile feedback and a crisp sound profile, the Cliff is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for those who spend long hours typing or gaming, as the 45-gram actuation force makes it easier on your fingers while still providing that satisfying tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a more deliberate typing feel paired with a balanced sound that caters to both typing and gaming, the FJ400 with its 58-gram bottom-out force might be more to your liking. It delivers a smoother, consistent keystroke without the tactile interruption, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or extensive writing sessions where you desire a quieter experience. In the end, consider whether you want the tactile stimulation and lighter touch of the Cliff or the stability and robustness of the FJ400 to align with your computing needs.
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