Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, two popular options stand out: the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX FJ400. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback for typists who enjoy a more dynamic keystroke. This switch is characterized by its polished feel, bouncy action, and an invigorating sound signature that leans towards the bassier side, making it a great choice for those who appreciate an audible typing experience. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 offers a linear switch experience, serving as a balanced middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup. While it lacks the tactile feedback of the Creamy Purple Pro, the FJ400 provides a smooth keystroke with a more muted sound profile, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer a quieter operation. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences; 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
30g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX FJ400 switches, distinct characteristics emerge, particularly in their top housings. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that offers clarity and resonance when the keys are pressed. This is a direct result of polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the switch's acoustics, making it particularly advantageous for users who value brightness in their typing experience. In contrast, the FJ400 features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, characterized by its smooth texture and pleasant acoustic qualities. While the V3's polycarbonate housing is effective for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the FJ400's POM material emphasizes a different aesthetic by focusing on a nuanced sound rather than visual effects.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as they both utilize nylon, a classic material revered in mechanical switch designs. The nylon bottom housing in both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX FJ400 contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, bringing a softness that absorbs sound and creates a more rounded auditory experience. This shared component significantly influences the typing feel and bottom-out sound, ensuring that both switches provide a satisfying tactile response. Given that both switches incorporate nylon in their bottoms, users can expect a similar depth and warmth when typing, creating a cohesive experience across different switch types despite the divergence in top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials creates two distinct yet complementary typing experiences with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX FJ400. The sharper, crisp sound profile of the V3 contrasts with the deeper, muted tones of the FJ400, making the two switches ideal for different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. However, due to the shared nylon material in the bottom housing, users of both switches can expect a harmonious depth to their typing sounds, balancing the overall auditory experience. Whether one prefers the brighter clarity of polycarbonate or the smoother depths of POM, the nylon base ensures a satisfying foundation that bridges the differences inherent in their designs.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, suitable for extended sessions at work or while gaming. In contrast, the FJ400 requires a medium actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 58 grams, offering a firmer response that some users may find more satisfying. This means that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, while the FJ400 is heavier, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. As a result, individuals looking for a lighter switch might lean towards the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for its gentler actuation and bottom out forces, while those who appreciate a heftier typing experience would likely prefer the FJ400.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the FJ400 has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Creamy Purple Pro the shorter option, which can provide a quicker response time that gamers often prefer for fast-paced gameplay. In contrast, the FJ400, with its greater travel distance, offers a deeper depth that some users may find more satisfying and substantial. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one values short and responsive feedback or a more traditional and pronounced keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 V3 Creamy Purple Pro distinguishes itself with a loud and bassier sound signature, creating a more pronounced auditory experience during typing. This feature can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy an impactful sound that complements their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 offers a more balanced sound profile, aiming for a middle ground that may not be as boisterous but provides a pleasant auditory experience without overwhelming the user. If you are particular about sound, the V3 will deliver a more robust auditory feedback, while the FJ400 will suit those who prefer a subtler auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels with a combination of qualities that provide a polished, bouncy, and invigorating typing experience. Its tactile bump delivers a prominent yet manageable feedback that enhances the typing experience, making the act of pressing keys feel lively and engaging. Additionally, the smoothness of the switch, likely due to its materials and potential factory lubing, allows for seamless key travel. Conversely, the feel of the HMX FJ400 is not specified, but users may generally expect a linear switch to offer a smooth and steady keypress without tactile feedback. If you prioritize an exciting and textured typing experience, the V3 is your go-to, while the FJ400 will provide a straightforward and uncomplicated feel.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch delivers an engaging, loud, and pronounced typing experience with a prominent tactile feedback that can elevate your keystrokes. Meanwhile, the HMX FJ400 linear switch presents a more muted sound and a smooth feel that maintains consistency across key presses. These switches cater to different preferences, whether you seek the lively and robust experience of the Creamy Purple Pro or the balanced and serene touch of the FJ400. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you are inclined towards auditory and tactile prominence or a more subdued and consistent input.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in typing experience and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a lighter key feel with pronounced tactile feedback and a more pronounced sound signature that adds a dynamic layer to your typing, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be an ideal choice for you. It's perfect for typists who appreciate a lively and invigorating sensation while typing, as well as for gamers who benefit from its tactile bump to aid in precise keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more balanced typing experience with a medium actuation force, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is your go-to option. This switch is well-suited for those who desire a quieter, polished feel that can enhance productivity, especially in environments where noise might be a concern. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most in your typing experience—whether it be tactile feedback and sound dynamics of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the balanced, refined feel of the HMX FJ400—before making your decision.
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