HMX FJ400 vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the nuances of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth present two appealing options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches. The FJ400, positioned as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, is renowned for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who desire a harmonious typing experience without the distractions of extreme auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth stands out with its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, designed specifically to mitigate the hard bottoming-out feel often encountered with longer-stem switches. This feature is accompanied by a commitment to user comfort, ensuring a pleasant tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Furthermore, the Hyacinth’s use of a single-stage elongated spring cultivates a more consistent force curve, diverging from the typical dual-stage variety. Both switches offer distinct advantages—whether one prioritizes sound balance or seeks to promote comfort and consistency in keystrokes. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your particular needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and user experience. The FJ400 utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for creating a sound that is deeper and relatively muted, leading to a unique auditory experience that many users find appealing. In contrast, the Hyacinth features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This sharpness is partly attributed to polycarbonate's inherent characteristics, making it capable of producing a crisp, resonant sound that enhances clarity. Thus, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials result in listeners experiencing distinctly different tonal qualities when using the respective switches.
Both the FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth employ nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. Nylon's attributes as a softer plastic allow it to absorb more sound compared to its harder counterparts, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. As both switches tap into this classic material, users can expect a degree of similarity in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. This commonality ensures that, despite the top housing differences, users will still experience an overall similar tonal depth that nylon provides, enhancing the acoustic quality while typing across varying switches.
When it comes to the complete switch experience, the differing top housing materials significantly affect how users perceive sound when both pressing down on keys and releasing them. The POM top of the FJ400 dampens certain frequencies, contributing to a muted sound signature, while the polycarbonate top of the Hyacinth boosts clarity and resonance, making for a livelier release. Therefore, while the FJ400’s design can be more suited for those who prefer a warm sound, the Hyacinth caters to users who appreciate a sharper acoustic experience, especially useful with RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. In essence, although both switches share nylon for their lower housing, their contrasting materials for the top housing create nuanced differences in their sound profiles, making each appealing to different types of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Hyacinth is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming might find the Hyacinth more comfortable, while those who favor a stronger tactile response might prefer the heavier FJ400. Both switches offer a relatively close bottom out force, but the FJ400 is slightly heavier overall, making it better suited for those who desire a more substantial typing experience. In summary, the FJ400 is the heavier option, while the Hyacinth provides a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth linear switches, it is evident that they differ slightly, with the FJ400 having a travel distance of 3.8 mm and the Hyacinth measuring 3.5 mm. This means that the FJ400 offers a longer travel distance than the Hyacinth, which can provide a more pronounced keypress experience favored by those who appreciate a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth may cater to gamers or users who prioritize quick response times and a more immediate actuation. In summary, while both switches deliver distinct characteristics influenced by their travel distances, the FJ400 is better suited for those who prefer a deeper keypress, whereas the Hyacinth appeals to those who desire a snappier, more responsive feel.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 that strikes a middle ground within the HMX Film lineup. This allows it to blend well with various typing environments, creating a pleasing auditory experience without being overly distracting. Conversely, the KTT Hyacinth switch, while also aiming for a more refined sound, is focused on reducing the hard bottoming-out noise associated with longer stems, thanks to its 3.5mm travel distance. This design choice not only enhances the overall sound signature but also allows for a quieter operation, making it ideal for shared spaces. However, it’s important to note that the actual sound quality can also be influenced by the selected board and keycap materials, which can change the overall auditory experience for both switches.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is expected to provide a well-rounded typing experience that aligns with its balanced sound characteristics. Meanwhile, the KTT Hyacinth features a notably silky typing feel, which offers an exceptionally smooth experience with minimal resistance during key presses. This is complemented by its subtle resistance that allows for a light typing sensation without being overly featherlight. The design choices made for the Hyacinth switch not only enhance the tactile feedback but also ensure that its sound signature remains unresonant, making it a preferred option for users in environments where shared workspace typing sound can be a concern.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and KTT Hyacinth linear switches present unique qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. The FJ400 emphasizes a balanced sound profile, providing versatility for various settings, while the Hyacinth focuses on a smoother and more subtle typing experience to reduce noise and enhance comfort. While both switches offer distinct tactile and auditory characteristics, users can expect to find a satisfying typing experience with either, depending on their individual needs and workspace dynamics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Hyacinth linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're seeking a balanced sound profile paired with a medium actuation force, making the FJ400 suitable for a variety of tasks from typing to gaming, then this switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium resistance can provide a satisfying feel without being overly strenuous during long typing sessions. However, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with less resistance and a thoughtful design aimed at reducing the hard bottoming-out sensation, the KTT Hyacinth should be your go-to. Its unique 3.5mm travel distance and silky, subtle feel make it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and want to maintain a quieter environment, especially in shared workspaces. Both switches offer engaging experiences, but your ultimate decision should align with your own preferences for sound, feel, and the type of feedback you enjoy most in your mechanical keyboard.
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