HMX FJ400 vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both stand out as great options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The HMX FJ400 is renowned for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who value harmony between acoustics and typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a beloved classic in the community, celebrated for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, which appeals to those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback while typing. The FJ400 serves as a perfect middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, whereas the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its low-pitched, bassy, and polished sound, offering a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel; 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Ink Black V2, a distinct difference emerges in the profiles these materials project. The FJ400 employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its ability to produce a unique, deeper sound that is relatively more muted. This nuanced acoustic signature offers a tactile experience that many users might find appealing for its pleasant sound quality. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend in its top housing that generates a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile. While both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the deeper and more subdued notes of the FJ400 might resonate with users who prefer a softer typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 caters to those who enjoy a sharper, more vibrant sound.
The bottom housing of each switch further distinguishes their acoustic qualifications and tactile responses. The FJ400’s nylon bottom housing is recognized for its classic attributes; being a softer plastic, it absorbs sound effectively, leading to a fuller, deeper sound profile. This is in marked contrast to the Ink Black V2's bottom housing, which also utilizes the proprietary INK blend. While both are engineered to create a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Black V2 maintains its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile across both housings. Consequently, this divergence results in each switch excelling in its way: the FJ400 is more adept at producing muted and deeper tones, while the Ink Black V2 excels at delivering a distinctly clearer, more resonant sound.
In summary, while both the HMX FJ400 and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches feature contrasting housing materials that shape their auditory experiences, they can also deliver a synergistic typing feel. The characteristics of each housing—be it nylon's ability to create a fuller sound or POM's unique acoustic abilities—play a crucial role in defining the overall typing sensation. When used, the distinction in sound profiles is clearly noticeable during both the bottoming-out and releasing phases. If one were to approach the two with the same intention of achieving similar results, understanding these nuances would be vital for tailoring a keyboard to personal preferences, ultimately leading to a satisfying typing experience based on sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches, notable differences emerge. The FJ400 boasts a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Ink Black V2's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find the FJ400 more suitable for their needs. Similarly, the FJ400's bottom out force of 58 grams is lighter than the Ink Black V2's bottom out force of 70 grams, reinforcing the distinction between the two switches. The Gateron Ink Black V2, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the FJ400 is the lighter option, making it a favored choice for those looking for less strain during long periods of use, while the Ink Black V2 caters to users who prefer a firmer feedback in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the FJ400 the shorter option and the Ink Black V2 the longer one. For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the FJ400's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker key activation. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional and satisfying feel for users who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the FJ400 facilitating speed and the Ink Black V2 catering to a more substantial tactile experience.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 switch is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, providing an overall neutral auditory experience that fits well in a variety of environments. While specific descriptors for the FJ400's sound might not be available, its middle-ground position suggests it avoids extremes, allowing users to enjoy a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 presents a nuanced auditory character marked by low-pitched, bassy tones that provide a richer sound with each keypress. The Ink Black V2's chirpy quality adds a unique dimension to its sound signature, giving it a lively yet deep resonance that many enthusiasts find appealing. Overall, while the FJ400 offers a balanced, versatile sound, the Ink Black V2 might cater to those who enjoy a pronounced, rich auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 lacks specific descriptors, so it's challenging to pinpoint its characteristics. However, if it aligns with other linear switches in the HMX lineup, one might expect a smooth and consistent keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is noted for its mild and polished qualities. The mildness of the Ink Black V2 ensures a gentle and approachable typing experience, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. The polished nature of this switch suggests a highly refined action, providing smooth key travel with minimal friction that many users appreciate over extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Ink Black V2 offer distinctive experiences tailored to different preferences. The FJ400 excels with a balanced sound profile and potentially smooth feel, making it versatile for various users. Meanwhile, the Ink Black V2 stands out with its pronounced low-pitched sound and polished, mild typing experience, appealing more to those who favor a richer auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as you can expect differing experiences even if both switches are linear in nature.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as well as your typing style. If you prefer a switch that strikes a balance in force and sound, the FJ400 could be your perfect match. With its medium-bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience that’s not overly heavy or too light, making it a great option for those who type for extended periods or enjoy a more subdued acoustic profile. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more substantial tactile experience and a deeper, richer sound, the Ink Black V2, with its medium-heavy 70 grams of force, is likely to be more satisfying. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a distinct typing feel paired with a low-pitched, bassy sound that can enhance your keystrokes. Both switches have their unique attributes, so your choice ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a gentle, polished feel or a robust, bass-heavy typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
