HMX FJ400 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black present two compelling options, each with distinct characteristics suited to different typing preferences. The FJ400 serves as a versatile middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, renowned for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a harmonious auditory experience without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as a heavy-hitter in the G Pro series, offering a more substantial typing experience with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force—ideal for those who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing. Additionally, this switch's medium-high pitch sound enhances its auditory appeal, while its frosted light diffuser elevates RGB lighting effects, adding a visual flair to the keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches cater to different user preferences, with the FJ400 focusing on balance and subtlety, and the G Pro 3.0 Black catering to those seeking a premium feel at an accessible price. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches showcase the interesting ways housing materials can influence overall sound profiles and tactile feedback. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, which is designed to produce a deeper, muted sound profile, giving it a unique auditory character that many users find appealing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a proprietary INK blend top housing, renowned for its higher-pitched and clackier sound. This distinction in sound profiles illustrates how the materials used in the top housing can produce varying acoustic results, significantly impacting the user experience when typing or gaming.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences become even more pronounced. The FJ400 utilizes a nylon bottom housing known for its classic properties, offering a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer characteristics, which absorb sound waves more effectively. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black opts for a POM bottom housing that silently enhances the deeper, more muted sound profile, blending nicely with its top to create a cohesive auditory experience. The contrasting nature of nylon and POM in the bottom housing elements emphasizes how these materials can dictate the overall feel and sound when a key is bottomed out, with the nylon providing a fuller response and the POM maintaining a cleaner timbre.
Ultimately, the divergence of housing materials between these two switches—POM and nylon for the FJ400 versus the proprietary INK blend and POM for the G Pro 3.0 Black—demonstrates that while both switches offer unique experiences, they achieve it through different approaches. The potential similarities in sound performance may arise when combining the effects of respective top and bottom housings, suggesting that similar experiences can be achieved through different material pairings. Despite the evident contrasts, both switches can still cater to users seeking distinctive sounds and tactile feedback, influenced by the unique properties of their materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This makes the FJ400 the lighter option, which may be preferable for those who engage in lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it allows for more comfortable and sustained use. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its heavier forces, may appeal to users who favor a more substantial tactile experience that provides satisfying resistance. Thus, if you seek a lighter and more effortless keystroke, the FJ400 would be the ideal choice, while those who prefer a greater push feel should consider the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more pronounced depth with each key press, catering to users who prefer a heartier feel. On the other hand, the FJ400’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances tend to deliver a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, users will find that choosing between these switches largely depends on their preference for sensitivity versus depth, with the FJ400 being the shorter option and the G Pro 3.0 Black offering the longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
The sound profile of the HMX FJ400 linear switch is best described as balanced, offering a pleasing auditory experience without being overly pronounced or distracting. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more dynamic soundscape characterized by its medium-high pitch. Some users find it to be clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound upon actuation, while others describe it as subdued, resulting in a more dampened auditory feedback. This variance in sound can be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps, so users may find their personal experience can still differ despite the inherent qualities of each switch.
When it comes to the feel, the FJ400 is known for its balanced typing experience, which makes it approachable for a variety of users, although specific descriptions of its tactile qualities are not provided. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, on the other hand, offers a distinctly creamy and silky sensation, enhancing the typing experience with its buttery smoothness. This switch features minimal resistance, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys, contributing to a light and pleasant keystroke. Its gentle resistance makes it particularly suitable for longer typing sessions, as it minimizes fatigue without sacrificing feedback.
In summary, both the HMX FJ400 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches present their unique auditory and tactile experiences. While the FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile and an undefined feel that generally appeals to newcomers, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its more pronounced auditory presence and exceptionally smooth typing sensation complemented by creaminess. Ultimately, preferences will vary among users, and individuals looking for a specific auditory or tactile quality should consider their own typing style and environment when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, your personal preferences and typing style will ultimately guide your decision. If you seek a balanced sound profile and a subtle typing experience, the FJ400 is an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate a medium actuation force of 60 grams and a smoother transition during key presses. This switch is ideal if you work in a shared environment, as its sound profile is less intrusive and offers a more understated response. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and crispy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its heavier 70-gram bottom-out force may suit you better. This switch provides a creamy feel that allows for fluid typing, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy more resistance while typing, and is best for gamers or typists who desire a vivacious auditory feedback paired with a premium tactile sensation. Therefore, your choice should reflect whether you value a balanced, quieter experience or an engaging, more tactile one.
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