HMX FJ400 vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two contenders vying for attention are the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Gold Silver, both linear switches yet distinct in their appeal. The FJ400 stands out within the HMX Film switch lineup for its balanced sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a moderate auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver excels in delivering rapid responsiveness, characterized by a shortened travel distance that results in a decisive bottom-out with a satisfying resonance. This switch harmonizes speed and fluidity, offering a silky smooth experience that many gamers and fast typists crave. While both switches offer unique benefits—be it the FJ400’s balanced sound or the Gold Silver’s emphasis on rapid keystrokes—each will suit different preferences and styles of use. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Gold Silver switches display a notable contrast in their top component. The FJ400 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which contributes to its deeper and more muted sound profile. This choice of material is excellent for users who prefer a sound that is less harsh and more subdued. In contrast, the Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonance, resulting in a clearer sound profile, which is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy more vibrant acoustics. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate, especially due to its translucency which allows for RGB lighting effects, further emphasizes the appeal of the Gold Silver for users seeking visual as well as auditory stimulation.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which provides a shared characteristic that influences their acoustic profile. Nylon is a classic material known for its softer and sound-absorbing properties, leading to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This similarity between the bottom housings suggests that both switches may yield comparable low-end acoustic performance, regardless of the differing top housing materials. When typing on these switches, the nylon bottom housing will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a rounded auditory experience for both models. Thus, while the switches may differ in the nature of their top sounds, they will still provide a cohesive underlying tone due to their common bottom housing material.
Ultimately, the sound profile experienced by users of the HMX FJ400 and TTC Gold Silver switches will be a blend of the contrasting qualities of the top and bottom housing materials. The distinctive sharpness of the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top will likely stand out against the plush character lent by its nylon bottom when typing, making it ideally suited for those seeking bright sound accents. Conversely, the FJ400 will offer a more muted yet rich typing experience, with the deeper qualities of the POM top housing. While the differing top materials create distinct sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom ensures a familiar and full sound foundation, indicating that both models can produce satisfying results in different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a medium resistance that some may find suitable for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gold Silver switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may favor those who prefer a more effortless typing experience—ideal for extended use. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is unknown, complicating a direct comparison in this aspect. The FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a firmer feel when fully depressed. Thus, while the FJ400 is the heavier option overall, featuring greater resistance both in actuation and bottoming out, the Gold Silver may appeal to users seeking lighter keys for prolonged usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, we find that the FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gold Silver measures 3.5 mm. This makes the FJ400 the longer option, providing a total of 0.3 mm more travel distance than the Gold Silver. For users who prefer a more traditional feeling and a deeper keypress, the FJ400 may be the better choice, as its longer travel can give a more substantial feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Silver's shorter travel distance caters to gamers and others who prioritize quick response times and may prefer the more immediate feel of pressing the keys. Thus, if responsiveness is key, then the TTC Gold Silver may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress experience might lean towards the HMX FJ400.
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 TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, striking a pleasing equilibrium that caters to a variety of preferences. While the specific characteristics aren't detailed, this neutrality hints at a sound that won't be overly obtrusive, making it suitable for home or work environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound signature, which tends to lean towards a more bass-heavy tone. This combination allows for a decisive keystroke sound that harmonizes beautifully with its responsive design, ensuring that whether in quiet typing sessions or more active gaming scenarios, the auditory feedback remains satisfying.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is positioned as a middle-ground choice, implying a smoother typing experience but lacking explicit descriptors. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver boasts a polished and silky texture that enhances the typing experience, minimizing friction and providing smooth key travel. This particularly refined feel is coupled with mild and subtle resistance, making it approachable for users of all experience levels. The overall smoothness of the Gold Silver provides a tactile assurance on each keystroke, while the FJ400’s unspecified qualities suggest it will similarly deliver a comfortable typing experience but without the illustrious refinement that the Gold Silver showcases.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and TTC Gold Silver linear switches provide appealing auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The FJ400's balanced sound profile and undefined feel indicate a versatile switch, while the Gold Silver entices with its low-pitched tones and exceptionally smooth handling. If you prioritize refined sensations and a solid auditory feedback, the Gold Silver is an excellent choice. However, the FJ400 still promises an enjoyable experience, making it a reliable option for versatile use, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you can expect satisfying results in your typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, your choice should primarily depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you seek a balanced typing experience that melds sound and feel, the FJ400 is an excellent option due to its medium bottom-out force, making it approachable for both newcomers and experienced users alike. Its balanced sound profile is versatile, suitable for various settings, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, if you value rapid responsiveness and a distinctly smooth keystroke journey, the TTC Gold Silver may be more to your liking. This switch excels in delivering swift, decisive keystrokes, thanks to its polished and silky feel, coupled with a low-pitched sound that reinforces clarity in each action. Additionally, its seamless travel makes it an ideal choice for gaming or fast-paced typing environments where speed is crucial. In essence, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and how you intend to use your keyboard day-to-day.
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