HMX FJ400 vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy options from HMX are the FJ400 and the Lotus, both linear switches. The HMX FJ400 stands out as a balanced contender in the HMX Film switch lineup, renowned for its harmonious sound profile that caters to users seeking a refined auditory experience without overpowering noise. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus offers a unique tactile enjoyment with its medium-weight actuation of 50g at bottom out and a bright, resonant sound that creates a bouncy feel with each keystroke, making it an exhilarating option for gamers and typists alike. Choosing between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference; the FJ400 is ideal for those who favor a more muted yet evenly distributed sound, while the Lotus will appeal to those who crave a lively and energetic typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and HMX Lotus exhibit distinctly different top housing materials, which plays a significant role in shaping their respective sound profiles. The FJ400 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a unique and pleasing auditory experience. This material tends to create a sound that is deeper and somewhat muted, emphasizing a more refined acoustic quality. In contrast, the Lotus opts for a nylon top housing, a traditional choice that naturally yields a deep and fuller sound. The softness of nylon enables it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. The contrasting nature of these materials suggests that while the FJ400's sound might resonate with sharp clarity, the Lotus could deliver a more enveloping acoustic experience.
On the other hand, both the FJ400 and Lotus share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This consistency in housing material for the bottom section means that their underlying sound characteristics will be similar, reinforcing the depth and fullness that nylon provides. As nylon is adept at absorbing sound, this shared bottom housing contributes significantly to a rounded and softer impact when bottomed out. Consequently, while the differences in top housing may lead to variant sound profiles during key release, the bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a comparable auditory depth and feel during key presses, which is crucial for the overall typing experience.
In summary, despite the disparity in top housing materials between the FJ400 and Lotus, their shared nylon bottom housing serves to unify their sound outputs to some extent. The POM top housing of the FJ400 creates a refined sonic nuance upon release, while the nylon top of the Lotus amplifies sound absorption for a more full-bodied response. However, the nylon bottom housing present in both switches effectively solidifies the deep and rounded sound profile during key activation, ensuring that users will experience similar auditory qualities when typing. This blend of materials points to a nuanced interplay where each contributes its strengths, offering a unique yet comparable experience across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, notable differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, classifying it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Lotus is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of only 50 grams. This lighter design of the Lotus can provide a more comfortable typing experience for users who engage in long sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, the FJ400’s heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, offering a more tactile experience. Therefore, the FJ400 is the heavier option, while the Lotus is the lighter switch, catering to different preferences in the keyboard experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Lotus linear switches, it is clear that both switches cater to different preferences regarding key feel. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer of the two switches, while the Lotus has a comparatively shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm may seem minimal, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. For gamers and those seeking quicker response times, the Lotus's shorter travel distance may be appealing due to its more immediate actuation. In contrast, users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keypress would likely prefer the FJ400's greater travel distance, which offers a more substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual taste, with the FJ400 providing a more traditional feel and the Lotus optimizing for speed and responsiveness.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 HMX FJ400 linear switch features a balanced sound profile that sits comfortably in the middle of the spectrum, offering a pleasant auditory experience that won't distract you during typing or gaming. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a more subdued acoustic environment while still providing satisfying feedback. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch produces a bright and resonant sound that stands out more distinctly. This might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced aural feedback from their typing and desire a lively atmosphere while they work or play. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound experience can vary significantly based on the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is positioned as an effective middle ground with a smooth linear action that provides a consistent typing experience without any tactile bump, catering to users who favor a straightforward, fluid keystroke. The HMX Lotus switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its medium weight of 50g at bottom-out which delivers a super bouncy sensation, creating a lively and responsive typing feel that many find delightful. This added bounciness can enhance the experience for users who appreciate a feedback-rich environment, making each keystroke feel more engaging and dynamic.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and HMX Lotus linear switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences. While the FJ400 offers a balanced and subtle sound with a smooth linear feel suitable for focused work, the Lotus brings a bright auditory profile with an exciting bounce that can invigorate your typing. Depending on your preferences, each switch has its unique advantages, ensuring you can find a delightful typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Lotus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more balanced sound profile coupled with a medium actuation force of 58 grams, the FJ400 will likely serve you well, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy a solid and reliable typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and a bouncier feel, the HMX Lotus with its 50 grams bottom out force would be ideal. The Lotus offers a bright, resonant sound that can elevate your typing experience, bringing an enjoyable dynamic to every keystroke. Therefore, if you seek a blend of comfort and auditory pleasure, the Lotus could be your go-to switch, while the FJ400 might be the better choice if you prefer stability and consistent keystrokes.
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