HMX FJ400 vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Light Sakura present two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences and environments. The FJ400, recognized as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, strikes an admirable balance in sound and feel, making it versatile for both gaming and typing tasks. Its well-rounded character appeals to users who appreciate a satisfying tactile response without being overly noisy. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura prioritizes comfort and discretion, featuring an ultra-light touch that promotes extended typing sessions free from fatigue. Its silent operation makes it particularly suitable for office settings or shared spaces, where noise might be disruptive. Each switch offers unique advantages depending on your usage scenarios; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Bsun Light Sakura, a notable contrast arises between the two switches. The FJ400 utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) plastic for its top housing, which is known for delivering a deeper, more muted sound profile. This material allows for a unique auditory experience that is characterized by pleasant and rich tones, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued acoustic signature. In contrast, the Light Sakura's top housing is made from polycarbonate, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, delivering higher-pitched tones due to its stiffer nature. As polycarbonate is more transparent, it not only enhances the sound resonance but also elevates the aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is involved.
The bottom housing also contributes significantly to the overall sound characteristics of the switches, with the FJ400 again presenting nylon as its material. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder auditory experience. This softer plastic enables a deeper sound that emphasizes the lower frequencies, creating a more plush typing feel. Conversely, the Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which parallels the traits found in its top housing. This decision pushes the sound profile even further towards a bright and clear expression, reinforcing the higher-pitched tones at the bottom-out phase, which contrasts sharply with the nylon's absorption qualities.
When these two switches are pressed, the differences in material properties manifest in how the auditory feedback and overall tactile experience are perceived. The FJ400's combination of POM and nylon provides a rich and muted acoustic output, making it especially appealing to users who favor deeper sounds while typing. On the other hand, the Light Sakura's dual polycarbonate setup results in a sharper typing experience, where both the top and bottom contribute to a resonant, higher-frequency sound profile. In essence, although the sound outcomes are different due to material contrasts, players looking for vibrant RGB effects will find benefits in both switches, as the translucency of the housing materials allows for optimal light diffusion and visual effects in both options.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there are distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different typing preferences. The FJ400 boasts an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Light Sakura features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Light Sakura may offer an advantage due to less resistance, making it easier on the fingers. Conversely, the FJ400 provides more of a substantial feel with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch for extended use, the Light Sakura would be the ideal choice, while the FJ400 would suit those who appreciate a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, the FJ400 offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Light Sakura measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Light Sakura the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that gamers often appreciate for their fast-paced needs. In contrast, the FJ400 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial tactile feedback and a more traditional typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Thus, if responsiveness is a priority, the Light Sakura may be the preferred choice, whereas the FJ400 would appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced key engagement. Ultimately, your selection will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience you desire.
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 Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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, making it versatile for various typing environments. It strikes a middle ground, neither overly loud nor excessively muted, allowing for a satisfying auditory feedback that complements its performance. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is engineered for silence, providing a discreet typing experience that is ideal for quiet settings such as offices or shared spaces. While the FJ400 delivers a more pronounced acoustic quality, the Light Sakura caters to those who prefer a whisper-quiet operation, ensuring minimal disturbance to others nearby.
When discussing the tactile feel, the FJ400 maintains a comfortable and smooth actuation that many users appreciate for general typing and gaming. It provides adequate resistance without causing fatigue over prolonged usage, making it a solid choice for a variety of tasks. Meanwhile, the Light Sakura excels in offering an ultra-light feel, designed specifically for long typing sessions. This feature allows for effortless keystrokes, greatly reducing finger strain and fatigue, particularly beneficial for heavy typists who spend extended periods at their keyboards.
In conclusion, the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The FJ400 offers a balanced acoustic profile and a comfortable touch suitable for diverse usage scenarios, while the Light Sakura prioritizes silent operation and a feather-light actuation for comfort-oriented typing. Depending on your environment and typing habits, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but they appeal to different user needs—be it the pleasure of a balanced sound or the need for ultimate discretion and comfort.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios will greatly influence your choice. If you're looking for a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 may be the better option for you. Its design caters to those who appreciate a pronounced typing experience without being overly heavy, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, from gaming to general typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter, more discreet switch for use in office environments or shared spaces, the Bsun Light Sakura is an excellent choice. With its ultra-light 43-gram bottom-out force, it not only reduces fatigue during long typing sessions but also ensures you won't disturb those around you. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you prefer a more tactile sound experience with the FJ400 or the gentle, silent operation of the Light Sakura. Consider your typing habits, the environments you work in, and the sensations you enjoy to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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