HMX FJ400 vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Hutt can significantly affect your typing experience. The HMX FJ400, a linear switch, is recognized for its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate minimal resistance and a silent experience, perfect for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, is designed with a medium-heavy spring and a pronounced tactile bump, creating an engaging and responsive typing experience that many find invigorating. The added tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy, making the Hutt switch ideal for writers or programmers who benefit from the sensation of each key press. Both switches offer unique advantages, appealing to different preferences and use cases; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Hutt utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The FJ400 features a top housing made from POM (polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a sound that is deeper and more muted. This unique characteristic can create an auditory experience that feels warm and rounded, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer keystroke sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes a sharper, crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, known for enhancing clarity. This aesthetic difference is especially notable for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for effective light diffusion, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, however, both switches utilize nylon, a classic choice in the keyboard community. The nylon material in both the FJ400 and the Hutt delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This results in a sound that feels duller and rounder when typing, regardless of the differences noted in their top housings. The uniformity in this material choice leads to similar acoustical performance in terms of bottom-out sound, ensuring that both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience while striking a balance between depth and resonance.
In synthesizing the overall performance of these switches, it is evident that the contrasting top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles during different phases of keypress. The POM top of the FJ400 emphasizes muted tones on release, while the polycarbonate top of the Hutt sharpens the sound upon disengagement. However, since both share the nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistently rich and full sound when bottoming out. The combination of a softer bottom housing with a unique top housing creates a comprehensive auditory experience for the user, allowing them to select their preferred switch based on the nuances of sound and tactile feedback they desire.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch with the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Hutt switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams, making it feel more responsive and easier to press down. These differences imply that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Hutt, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may feel more comfortable with the heavier FJ400. Overall, the Hutt's lower forces provide a softer touch, whereas the FJ400 delivers a firmer key feel, thereby accommodating different user preferences in keyboard setup.
Travel distance
The HMX FJ400 linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the FJ400 provides a more substantial tactile experience when pressed down, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced feedback during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Hutt switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as shorter distances can facilitate faster keystrokes. Therefore, those who enjoy a deeper, more pronounced keystroke would likely lean towards the FJ400, whereas users favoring a snappier feel may opt for the Hutt switch due to its reduced 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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 balanced, making it a versatile choice suitable for various environments and preferences. While not defined in the data, this generally suggests a pleasant, unobtrusive acoustics that won't distract from other activities. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch boasts a resonant quality that produces a higher-pitched and clean sound when typing. This more immersive auditory experience can enhance the satisfaction of each keypress, making it potentially more engaging for those who appreciate a sharper auditory feedback during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 as a linear switch is likely to provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback that typists often seek. On the other hand, the Hutt switch delivers a snappy and invigorating typing experience, characterized by a prominent tactile bump and a medium-heavy spring. Users can expect a responsive and alive sensation with each press, enhanced by its sharp feedback intensity that distinctly signals when a key has been activated. The Hutt's performance can be described as well-rounded, capturing both pronounced feedback and an engaging tactile touch, which effortlessly elevates the typing experience.
In summary, while the FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound and a smooth feel, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch presents a more dynamic and engaging typing experience with its resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, as both can deliver unique qualities in sound and feel, catering to different typists and their individual requirements. If you are looking for a balanced sound and are content with a linear feel, the FJ400 may suit you well. However, if you're drawn to an immersive, tactile typing experience with a spirited auditory response, the Hutt would be the better option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke with a balanced sound profile, the HJ400's medium bottom-out force of 58 grams makes it an excellent option for a wide range of typing activities, from gaming to prolonged typing sessions. The FJ400 provides a subtle auditory experience without the tactile feedback, which might be more appealing if you're looking for a quieter and uninterrupted workflow. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more responsive and engaging typing experience, the Bsun Hutt's lighter 49-gram actuation force, combined with its snappy and pronounced tactile bump, is sure to invigorate your typing sessions. With its resonant and sharp sound profile, the Hutt switch delivers a satisfying feedback that may keep you focused and engaged, especially if you appreciate the tactile sensation beneath your fingertips. Ultimately, assessing how you plan to use your keyboard will help you make a more informed choice between these two distinct and enjoyable switches.
Mentioned in this article
