HMX FJ400 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 present two compelling yet distinct options for enthusiasts. The FJ400, positioned as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a versatile typing experience that isn't too loud or too subdued. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, which can add an exhilarating auditory dimension to typing. Produced by Haimu, these switches are engineered for a silky, seamless feel, significantly enhancing overall user comfort. Notably, the Lightning Silver V3 also shines with a light diffuser that enhances RGB illumination, appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup. While both switches offer unique benefits, it’s essential to understand the subtleties and specifics of each to make an informed decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
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
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 employ distinctly different housing materials that shape their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a deep, muted sound, complemented by its nylon bottom housing that delivers a fuller, rounded sound profile. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The choice of POM in the FJ400 aims to create a pleasing acoustic experience that leans toward a more subdued characteristic, while polycarbonate in the Lightning Silver V3 emphasizes clarity and resonance.
A key differentiator is how each switch’s materials impact sound absorption and transmission. The nylon bottom housing of the FJ400 absorbs sound waves more effectively, yielding a smoother bottom-out experience, while the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3, being stiffer, reinforces a more pronounced sound resonance. As a result, the FJ400 offers a unique combination of muted depths from the nylon bottom and a pleasant roundness, whereas the Lightning Silver V3 benefits from sharper clarity in sound due to the stiffer nature of its polycarbonate materials. This contrast illustrates how each company's design philosophy caters to different auditory preferences in gaming and typing.
Despite their differences, there's a potential for achieving somewhat similar results by mixing and matching elements from both switches. One could focus on complementing the POM top of the FJ400 with components from polycarbonate models for a balance of depth and clarity. Conversely, using the polycarbonate top of the Lightning Silver V3 with different bottom materials could yield a dynamic auditory experience. Ultimately, while the HMX FJ400 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 embrace different philosophies in housing material selection, both options possess a rich potential for engaging sound profiles that might appeal to users, depending on their auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, we find minor differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches provide a medium typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 is the lighter option regarding actuation force, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the FJ400's heavier actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, while both switches are close in specifications, the differences in weight preference could cater to different user needs, with the Lightning Silver V3 being a bit lighter and the FJ400 offering a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, the FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that pressing the FJ400 will yield a more generous depth compared to the more minimal feel of the Lightning Silver V3. Gamers may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 for its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker response times, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, users who favor a more substantial key press and a hearty depth might find the FJ400's longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding key response and feel during gameplay or typing.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 sits comfortably between the more muted and the excessively sharp acoustics found in many switches. Its sound may not draw attention like more pronounced options, making it suitable for users who prefer a less obtrusive auditory experience. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 delivers an exciting auditory characteristic marked by its clacky and high-pitched sound signature. The Lightning Silver V3 produces a crisp, bright sound when activated, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic and percussive typing experience. Therefore, while the FJ400 may provide a more subdued auditory presence, the Lightning Silver V3 certainly brings a lively, engaging sound to the table.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the FJ400 is characterized by its balanced tactile feedback, though specific details on its smoothness and resistance are scarce. In comparison, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its notably silky feel, which contributes to an extraordinarily smooth and seamless typing experience. This minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys can make it a preferable choice for speed typists and gamers alike. While the FJ400 offers a middle ground, the Lightning Silver V3 clearly stands out for its unique smoothness.
In conclusion, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is ideal for those seeking a balanced sound that doesn’t dominate the auditory landscape, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 offers a brighter, clacking profile that can make typing feel more vibrant and engaging. The feel of these switches varies significantly, with the Lightning Silver V3 providing an exceptionally smooth experience, while the FJ400 remains somewhat more traditional. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that whether you choose a more understated auditory profile with the FJ400 or a lively typing experience with the Lightning Silver V3, you'll find satisfaction in their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches, your preferences and intended use will guide your choice. If you seek a balanced sound profile with a moderate actuation force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is an excellent choice. It's perfect for a comfortable typing experience that won’t be too loud, making it suitable for both work environments and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more vibrant and clacky sound, along with a slight increase in bottom-out force to 60 grams, the Lightning Silver V3 is the way to go. Its silky feel offers a seamless typing experience, which can be particularly enjoyable for fast-paced gaming or for those who prefer a snappy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a more subdued, balanced sound for regular use (FJ400) or a lively, resonant auditory experience with a smoother feel (Lightning Silver V3).
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