KTT Cream Yellow vs. HMX FJ400

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX FJ400 stand out as exceptional options within the linear switch category, each offering unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Cream Yellow is celebrated for its distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, making it a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback and an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 is positioned as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, providing a more balanced sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a quieter and more subdued typing environment. While both switches prioritize linear smoothness, the Cream Yellow focuses on an expressive and tactile experience, whereas the FJ400 aims for versatility and equilibrium. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

HMX FJ400 Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Cream Yellow and HMX FJ400 switches showcase the diversity in materials used for keyboard switch housings, each contributing distinct auditory and tactile characteristics to the typing experience. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material’s translucency not only enhances acoustic properties but also makes it aesthetically pleasing when paired with RGB lighting. Conversely, the FJ400's top housing is made of POM, which yields a deeper, more muted sound that creates a unique auditory experience. This fundamental difference between polycarbonate and POM in the top housing serves to influence the overall sound each switch produces during key releases—ensuring that users will notice varying sound nuances as they type.

When examining the bottom housings of the two switches, both the Cream Yellow and FJ400 utilize nylon, a classic material prized for its ability to create a fuller and richer sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when keys are pressed. Since both switches share this bottom housing material, their sound profiles while bottoming out will be quite similar, featuring that deep, rounded quality that nylon is known for. This commonality in bottom housing material indicates that, despite the differences in their top housings, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing feel at the point of actuation.

The contrasting materials used in the top housing of the Cream Yellow and FJ400 allow for an innovative blending of sound profiles within each switch. While the Cream Yellow’s polycarbonate top produces a clearer, more pronounced sound during the release phase, the FJ400’s POM top offers a deeper sound, creating a distinctly different typing experience. However, since both switches share the nylon bottom housing, they manage to unite their characteristics, resulting in a full-bodied sound when keys are pressed down. Ultimately, while the switches cater to varying preferences in auditory response due to their differing top housing materials, the nylon bottom ensures that both deliver significant auditory satisfaction upon actuation.

Weight

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch share identical specifications when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force, both requiring a force of 50 grams to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out. This similarity means that users can expect equivalent typing experiences in terms of keystroke responsiveness and feel. Consequently, whether you lean towards lighter or heavier switches, both of these options maintain a medium profile that balances comfort with feedback. As both options have the same weight specifications, users can enjoy extended typing sessions without fatigue while still benefiting from the substantial feel provided by the bottom out force. Hence, those desiring a consistent experience can confidently choose either switch without concern for differences in actuation or bottom out characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the FJ400 features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow the shorter option, appealing to those who favor a quicker response time, such as gamers who benefit from shorter travel distances for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the FJ400, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more robust feel that some users appreciate for its depth and stability. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences: if one favors responsiveness, the Cream Yellow is the better option, while those who prefer a more traditional feel may opt for the FJ400.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Cream Yellow and HMX FJ400 linear switches, the Cream Yellow distinctly stands out with its clacky auditory feedback. This switch is engineered for a sharp and snappy sound that resonates well, making it feel vibrant and lively during use. In contrast, while the FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile, specific descriptors for its sound are not provided, suggesting a more neutral auditory experience. Nevertheless, the ultimate sound output for both switches can vary significantly based on the type of keyboard they are paired with and the keycap styles used, emphasizing the importance of these factors in crafting the overall acoustic quality.

In terms of tactile feel, the Cream Yellow shines with its bouncy characteristics. Users will notice a spring-like sensation that provides delightful rebound feedback with each key press, enhancing the typing experience with a lively dynamism. However, the feel of the FJ400 is unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this aspect. It's possible that it may deliver a more subdued or neutral feel, but without further information, that remains speculative.

Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The KTT Cream Yellow excels in producing an engaging clacky sound and a bouncy feel, ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing experience. Conversely, the HMX FJ400 presents a balanced auditory profile, but the lack of descriptive information on its tactile properties leaves certain aspects open to interpretation. Depending on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, either switch could appeal to you, but the Cream Yellow evidently offers a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX FJ400 linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel while typing or gaming. If you enjoy a more engaging auditory experience with each keystroke, the Cream Yellow's distinctively clacky sound and bouncy feel will likely enhance your enjoyment. This switch is particularly suitable for those who appreciate a responsive typing sensation and don't mind the accompanying noise, making it a great option for a vibrant and lively typing environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced sound profile and a quieter typing experience, the FJ400 would be a better choice. Its middle-ground characteristics create a smooth typing experience without overwhelming auditory feedback, making it ideal for both office settings or quieter environments where noise levels are a consideration. Ultimately, consider what aspects you value more in your typing experience—whether it’s the lively bounce and sound of the Cream Yellow or the subtlety and balance of the FJ400.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more