HMX FJ400 vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX FJ400, a linear switch, and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile and smooth actuation, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable, silent experience for both typing and gaming. Its design epitomizes the versatility that many users covet, providing a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are distinguished by their bright and clacky sound, offering a delightful auditory feedback that many typists crave. Ideal for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard, the Magnetic Jade switches promise a superior typing experience bolstered by impressive acoustics. Both switches have their unique attributes, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which directly impact their sound profiles. The FJ400 features a top housing made from POM (polyoxymethylene), known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This characteristic suggests an acoustic experience that is both satisfying and less sharp. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a higher-pitched and more resonant sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances the clarity of the sound, making it brighter and more distinct. As a result, users can expect a more pronounced auditory feedback when using the Magnetic Jade compared to the mellower tones of the FJ400.
In terms of bottom housing, both the FJ400 and Magnetic Jade use nylon, which introduces a consistent element between the two switches. Nylon is revered for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft plastic composition. This means that regardless of the differences in top housing materials, the stronger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be similar when both switches are pressed. Since nylon absorbs more sound, both switches will share a more rounded auditory experience at the bottom of the keystroke, harmonizing their performances even with divergent top housings.
Ultimately, while the FJ400 and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches differ in the material of their top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a commonality that influences their sound profiles in similar ways. Users can thus expect the impact of sound and feel to vary between the switches, yet still benefit from the distinctly absorbing qualities of nylon on the lower end. The contrasting characteristics of POM and polycarbonate on the top housing bring unique auditory experiences while maintaining some level of consistency in feel and sound due to the nylon in the base. This combination allows each switch to cater to different personal preferences without losing the essence that nylon brings to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The FJ400 has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the Magnetic Jade offers a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it more suitable for users seeking a less demanding typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the FJ400 reaches 58 grams, which is slightly higher than the Magnetic Jade's 55 grams. This suggests that while both switches are classified as medium and medium-light respectively, the FJ400 provides a more substantial feel, potentially appealing to those who prefer a firmer push for better tactile feedback. Overall, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use, while the FJ400 may cater to those who appreciate a stronger resistance during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Magnetic Jade measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the FJ400 the longer option, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing a key, which can provide a sense of depth and feedback. Conversely, gamers or those looking for quicker response times might favor the shorter 3.5 mm travel of the Magnetic Jade, as it can facilitate faster actuation. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness; choosing between them depends on whether the user values a deeper press or a snappier action.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its balanced sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience that doesn't overwhelm the senses. This ensures that it works well in quieter settings where a more subtle sound is preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch produces a bright and clacky sound that stands out more prominently, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Both switches, of course, can be influenced by external factors such as the specific keyboard build and keycap material, but the inherent characteristics differentiate them in sound signature quite clearly.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 switch offers a smooth and consistent linear action, making it suitable for both gaming and typing where minimal resistance is desired. Its design provides an effortless keystroke, promoting a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch utilizes a hall effect mechanism that provides a unique tactile experience. This switch often feels more responsive, providing a subtle feedback that can enhance the engagement during typing or gaming sessions. The distinct characteristics in feel between these two switches cater to different preferences; those who favor unimpeded motion might lean toward the FJ400, while others might appreciate the responsiveness of the Magnetic Jade.
In conclusion, while both the HMX FJ400 and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, they both stand out in their respective areas. The FJ400 provides a balanced sound and a smooth linear feel, making it a versatile choice for various uses. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade offers a bright sound profile and a unique tactile feedback that can elevate the typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or tactile feedback more in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is a solid choice, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience that caters to both typing and gaming scenarios. This switch is ideal for users seeking an all-around performer without any overwhelming sound or force, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. On the other hand, if you're searching for something with a bit more character, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the way to go, providing that vibrant and clacky sound which can elevate the acoustics of your keyboard setup. With a slightly lower bottom-out force of 55 grams, this switch may feel lighter under your fingers, making it particularly appealing for longer typing sessions or for users who prefer a more responsive feel. Therefore, consider your typing style, the sound profile you desire, and the pressure that feels most comfortable for you when deciding between these two dynamic options.
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