HMX FJ400 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Mahjong both offer compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a versatile switch that remains unobtrusive whether typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong stands out with its vibrant green and white color scheme and delivers a lively, poppy sound signature that can add a touch of personality to your setup while offering an effortless typing experience. While both switches cater to linear preferences, the FJ400 provides a more muted auditory feedback whereas the Mahjong injects excitement into the user's interactions. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to whether you prefer a balanced, understated performance or a more spirited and visually engaging typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The top housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Mahjong demonstrate a clear distinction in their composition and resulting audio profiles. The FJ400 utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its ability to produce a unique sound that is both deeper and relatively muted. This characteristic is attributed to POM's density and sound-dampening properties, resulting in a softer auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Mahjong features a POK (polyketone) top housing, which, although sharing a similar functional role, tends to produce a sound that is smoother and clackier due to its lower coefficient of friction. This subtle difference in acoustic qualities suggests that enthusiasts might prefer one switch over the other based on the type of auditory feedback they seek.
Examining the bottom housing materials reveals that both the FJ400 and the Mahjong are equipped with nylon, a classic choice in mechanical switches. This shared component contributes to a robust sound profile characterized by fullness and depth. As nylon is a relatively soft plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, thereby reducing higher-pitched noise and creating a more rounded auditory experience. This commonality means that users will find similar bottom-out and overall sound signatures between the two switch types, despite the variance in mechanics introduced by their respective top housings. Thus, both switches maintain a cohesive auditory experience stemming from their nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the depth of sound desired by typists.
In considering the overall performance of the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Mahjong, it is essential to acknowledge how the different top housing materials influence their tactile feedback and sound profile. While the nylon bottoms provide a consistent and deep acoustic foundation, the distinction between the POM and POK top housings diverges in terms of tactile experience. The POM top housing may create a more subdued release sound, aligning with users who prefer softer auditory cues, whereas the POK option offers a lively and smooth sound that can enhance the tactile moment of letting go of a key. Consequently, this combination of materials ensures that even with varied top housings, the essential quality of the switches can produce enjoyable, deep sound profiles, fostering a nuanced typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mahjong features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Mahjong switch may be preferable for users seeking a lighter feel, enabling longer typing periods and more comfortable gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out forces, the FJ400 also has a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a substantial resistance upon full keypress. The Mahjong switch, however, does not specify a bottom out force, leaving this aspect unclear. Consequently, while the FJ400 provides a firmer and more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, the Mahjong's lighter actuation force suggests that it is more oriented towards users who favor ease of keystroke. If the bottom out force of the Mahjong were known and was comparable or similar to the FJ400, users might achieve similar typing results by selecting the more suited switch to their typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Mahjong offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For individuals who prioritize rapid response times, the Mahjong's shorter distance may be more appealing, as it caters to gamers seeking swift actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more profound keystroke feel might find the FJ400's 3.8 mm travel distance to be more satisfying and engaging. In summary, if you favor responsiveness, the Dareu Mahjong is the way to go, whereas for a deeper typing experience, the HMX FJ400 would be preferable.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 a versatile choice for various typing environments. It provides a moderate sound level that is neither too loud nor too quiet, allowing for a pleasant typing experience whether at work or home. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch features a lively and poppy sound signature. Its sound is generally perceived as neutral, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and an appealing auditory experience that suits both beginners and experienced users alike. While both switches produce unique sound characteristics, the FJ400's balanced profile offers a quieter, more subdued environment compared to the Mahjong’s energetic sound, which can invigorate your typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 provides a solid yet undefined tactile experience, offering a comforting and reliable sensation upon keypress. However, the Dareu Mahjong switches stand out with a bouncy, elastic feedback that gives them a fun and lively characteristic. The Mahjong's typing experience is further enhanced by its mild nature, making it approachable for a wide variety of users, while also showcasing a polished feel due to refined materials and smooth key travel. This combination of bounciness and refinement promotes a unique feel that can be both playful and satisfying, marking a distinct contrast to the more straightforward experience provided by the FJ400.
In summary, while the HMX FJ400 and Dareu Mahjong linear switches each have their unique attributes, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The FJ400 excels in providing a balanced and versatile sound profile, making it suitable for most environments, while the Mahjong offers an engaging, lively auditory experience with its distinctive poppy sound and dynamic feel. Users who appreciate a bouncy and polished typing experience may gravitate towards the Mahjong, while those preferring a more understated, reliable feel will likely favor the FJ400. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfactory performance, depending on your personal preferences in typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Mahjong linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and what kind of experience you seek. If you're looking for a balanced switch that offers a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, ensuring a steady and consistent feel while typing, the FJ400 may be the right choice for you. It's particularly suitable if you desire a sound profile that won't disrupt your work or gaming sessions, making it versatile for both home and office environments. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more vibrant and engaging typing experience, you might be drawn to the Mahjong switches. Their bouncy feedback and lively sound signature can make typing feel more dynamic and enjoyable, especially for casual use or when you're looking for a bit of flair in your setup. Additionally, the Mahjong's polished feel could elevate your typing experience, making it smooth and satisfying. Consider your environment and how each switch aligns with your typing style: if you prefer something subtle and reliable, choose the FJ400; if you want something that adds character and liveliness to your typing, go for the Mahjong.
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