HMX EMO vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX EMO and HMX FJ400 both stand out as outstanding linear options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX EMO is celebrated for its lively, clacky feel, combining a feather-light 46g bottom-out force with an exceptionally factory-lubed build that ensures a smooth and bouncy typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who desire a light touch and a more tactile response in their keystrokes, providing an engaging and satisfying experience for both typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 finds itself as a balanced choice within the HMX Film switch lineup, known for its mid-range sound profile that offers a more subtle auditory experience without sacrificing performance. This makes the FJ400 ideal for users seeking a versatile switch that can seamlessly transition from work to play while keeping noise levels in check. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and HMX FJ400 exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, showcasing the unique characteristics that polycarbonate and POM bring to the table. The EMO utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer nature. This makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual experience. In contrast, the FJ400 relies on POM for its top housing, yielding a deeper and more muted sound profile. This inherent contrast in sound characteristics significantly influences the overall typing experience, providing users with different auditory feedback when engaging with each switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX EMO and HMX FJ400 feature nylon, a classic material known for delivering a deep, full sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder auditory experience due to its softness, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials, both switches maintain a level of sound consistency in their bottom-out noise, producing a satisfying feel that many users appreciate. The shared nylon material allows for a common audio foundation, despite the differences in the top housing that influence the overall sound profile.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials with a shared nylon bottom housing serves to illustrate the nuanced interactions at play in the sound and feel of each switch. The unique properties of polycarbonate and POM dictate how each switch will perform during gameplay or typing, with the EMO leaning towards a more crisp and resonant experience, while the FJ400 offers deeper tones. However, because both switches incorporate nylon in their lower sections, users can expect a complimentary auditory foundation, allowing for a balanced approach to their typing preferences. This synthesis of materials leads to distinct sound signatures while retaining an overlapping auditory experience that many enthusiasts favor.
Weight
The HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The EMO features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a suitable choice for prolonged use, such as during long work hours or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the FJ400 requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience favored by users who appreciate a firmer keystroke. This heavier resistance can contribute to greater feedback when typing. Therefore, while both switches serve similar roles, the EMO is better for users seeking a lighter touch, while the FJ400 caters to those preferring a stronger push feel. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their suitability for varying typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
When comparing the HMX EMO linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the travel distances differ, with the EMO measuring 3.5 mm and the FJ400 at 3.8 mm. This makes the EMO the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that appeals to gamers who favor quicker actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the FJ400, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial depth that some users might prefer for a more traditional and satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a deeper and more deliberate feel during typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky acoustics, which contribute to an engaging typing experience. This characteristic makes it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 provides a more balanced sound profile, striking a middle ground in the spectrum of acoustic feedback. This makes the FJ400 a versatile option for users who prefer a more subdued auditory presence while still enjoying a pleasant typing sound. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the sound produced by switches can be influenced by various factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the EMO excels with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, which results in an effortless and bouncy typing experience that many users find satisfying and smooth. This switch's exceptional factory lubrication further enhances this experience, providing a feeling of fluidity with each keystroke. In contrast, the FJ400 is positioned as the middle ground among HMX switches, which suggests that it may offer a balanced tactile response that caters to users seeking a combination of key resistance and smoothness. While the specifics of its feel aren’t described in detail, it can be inferred that it does not lean too heavily toward either end of stiffness or lightness.
In conclusion, the HMX EMO and FJ400 switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The EMO is celebrated for its lively clack and bouncy, satisfying typing experience, while the FJ400 offers a more balanced acoustic signature coupled with a tactile experience that suits a variety of users. Both switches can yield enjoyable typing results, depending on your style and preferences. Ultimately, whether you opt for the EMO or the FJ400, you’re bound to have a satisfying experience, making it essential to consider your personal typing habits and desired feedback before making a choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EMO and HMX FJ400 linear switches largely depends on your personal typing preferences and what you seek from your mechanical keyboard experience. If you prefer a light touch and enjoy a lively, responsive feel in your keystrokes, the HMX EMO is an excellent choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 46 grams facilitates quick typing and can reduce finger fatigue, making it a great option for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Additionally, its exceptional factory lubrication enhances the overall smoothness, offering a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more balanced typing experience, the HMX FJ400 might be the switch for you. With a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, it provides a more grounded feel, offering a bit more resistance that can help improve typing accuracy for some users. The balanced sound profile contributes to a pleasantly thocky sound that many find appealing during both typing and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and the desired sound and feel, ensuring that your keyboard enhances your productivity and enjoyment.
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