Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the contrast between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400 reveals distinct options for different typing preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is celebrated for its vibrant auditory experience, delivering a poppy, clacky sound coupled with a pleasantly creamy tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy an engaging and lively key press. With characteristics such as being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, this switch provides both an enjoyable typing experience and affordability for budget-conscious enthusiasts. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 stands as a more balanced option within the HMX Film switch lineup, ideal for those who prefer a harmonious sound profile without sacrificing smooth performance. While the FJ400 lacks some of the auditory flair of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, it offers a steadiness that caters to users seeking a versatile and reliable feel for both gaming and typing. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400 utilize different materials for their top housings, which distinguishes their sound profiles significantly. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition, which translates to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and resonant. This quality makes it particularly favorable for RGB-compatible switches, as its translucency allows the lighting effects to shine through effectively. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 is equipped with a POM top housing, which produces a more muted and deeper sound profile. This unique sound characteristic is attributed to POM's flexibility and density, resulting in a less sharp auditory feedback compared to polycarbonate.
When comparing the bottom housings of both switches, however, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400 align closely as both feature nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer plastic nature. This similarity offers a consistent typing experience in terms of sound damping, allowing for a rounder acoustic output when the keys are bottomed out. Therefore, while the top housings lead to differing auditory experiences during actuation, the nylon bottom housing allows both switches to maintain common ground in their sound profiles.
Ultimately, the overall auditory experience of the switches will vary based on their top housing materials, but the compatibility of nylon in the bottoms provides some shared characteristics. Users can expect a deeper and richer sound when pressing the keys on both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400, as the nylon bottom plays a significant role in the sound production. However, the distinct qualities of polycarbonate and POM in their top housings will lead to noticeable differences during key release, underpinning a nuanced interaction between the switching materials that define each switch's unique acoustic signature.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning users can expect a similar ease of triggering a keystroke with either switch. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro registering at 60 grams and the FJ400 at 58 grams. This means that the V3 switch offers a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the FJ400's overall feel is slightly lighter, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, while both switches provide a medium typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option, offering a firmer bottoming out sensation compared to the slightly lighter HMX FJ400.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the FJ400 has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This distinction means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times in their typing or gaming experiences. Conversely, the FJ400's longer travel distance may provide a more tactile feel that some users prefer, as it allows for a deeper key press that can enhance overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, your choice between these two will largely depend on your preference for a responsive, shorter travel versus a more pronounced, deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers a satisfying auditory experience with its poppy and clacky tones, which many users enjoy as they type or game. This pronounced sound profile makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 presents a more balanced sound profile, which means it might not provide the same level of auditory excitement as the Cream Yellow Pro, feeling more subdued and neutral. The sound you experience from either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps, but generally, the Cream Yellow Pro leans towards a more vibrant soundscape.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels with several descriptors that enhance the overall typing experience. It is characterized as easy to press, requiring minimal force, which reduces finger fatigue during long sessions and makes typing and gaming effortless. This switch offers a bouncy and snappy feedback, creating a lively typing sensation, along with a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel. In contrast, the details about the HMX FJ400's feel are currently unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. However, if HMX switches are generally aligned with linear switch expectations, it may promise a smoother albeit less tactile experience than the Cream Yellow Pro.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a budget-friendly switch with a vibrant sound and an exceptional typing feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch stands out with its lively auditory feedback and comfortable ease of activation. The FJ400 may offer a more neutral auditory experience, but its feel remains unknown at this time. This knowledge should direct you towards the Cream Yellow Pro if sound and tactile enjoyment are high on your list, while the FJ400 could be an option to explore based on your preference for balance and smoothness in sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX FJ400 linear switches cater to different preferences and use cases, making your selection dependent on what you prioritize in a typing experience. If you value a rich, vibrant sound profile along with a creamy tactile feel for a satisfying auditory experience, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is your ideal choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and descriptors such as "snappy" and "bouncy" make it an enjoyable option for both gaming and extended typing sessions, promoting a lively feedback that keeps your fingers engaged and reduces fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced and refined sound with an emphasis on a smoother typing experience, the HMX FJ400 might suit you better. With its slightly lower bottom-out force of 58 grams, it offers a middle-ground feel that can provide a more controlled typing experience without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on whether you prefer the playful and pronounced characteristics of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the more subdued and polished profile of the FJ400. Your decision should reflect your personal preferences in sound and feel, ensuring the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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