HMX FJ400 vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX FJ400 and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile that strikes a harmonious middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a versatile switch that can accommodate both typing and gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with its smooth tactile feel and pronounced bottom-out, providing a satisfying auditory and physical feedback that appeals to both typists and gamers alike. Its design emphasizes a playful and resonant clack, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. While the FJ400 is perfect for those looking for a subtle yet effective performance, the Matcha Green Pro offers a more exuberant experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, significant differences emerge that influence their acoustic profiles. The FJ400 features a top housing made of POM, known for producing a unique and deeper sound that is relatively muted. This characteristic makes the FJ400 suitable for users who favor a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer construction. This choice not only contributes to a distinct auditory experience but also enhances the clarity and resonance of sound, particularly appealing for those who enjoy a brighter keystroke feedback.
Moving to the bottom housings, both switches share nylon material, noted for its classic usage among mechanical switches. The nylon bottom housing in both the FJ400 and the V3 Matcha Green Pro results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. This shared quality ensures that both switches attain a certain level of warmth in their acoustic signatures, which helps balance the distinct sound profiles created by their varying top housings. This affinity in material promotes consistency in the auditory experience, guaranteeing that both switches elicit a pleasing and rounded sound, even as the top housings diverge drastically.
The interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials ultimately affects the overall typing experience. While the FJ400's POM top contributes a more muted sound during key releases, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top enhances brightness, complemented by the shared nylon bottom's emphasis on depth. Thus, users can achieve similar auditory experiences in the lower frequencies of both switches, even as they encounter contrasting accents in the higher frequencies, depending on their preference for sound profiles. By selecting either switch, users can appreciate the unique qualities brought by each material, allowing for a personalized typing experience grounded in their acoustic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, there are distinct 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 V3 Matcha Green Pro requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the FJ400 the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its heavier forces, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Although both switches exhibit medium force profiles, users can expect a more tactile feel from the Matcha Green Pro due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the FJ400 provides a gentler push.
Travel distance
Both the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this regard. This means that when pressed, both switches provide a consistent feel and resistance over the same distance before bottoming out. Users can expect similar tactile experiences and responsiveness when using either switch, resulting in minimal difference in performance during typing or gaming. With identical travel distances, those seeking a uniform keystroke feel can confidently choose between the two switches without concerns about varying actuation distance.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch presents a balanced audio profile, making it versatile for various typing environments without being overly loud or intrusive. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is defined by its notably clacky and resonant nature, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. This switch might appeal to users who enjoy an engaging auditory experience, as it delivers a bright and lively sound that adds to the overall enjoyment of typing or gaming. While both switches provide unique soundscapes, the choice between them will largely depend on personal preference regarding sound engagement during use.
In terms of feel, the FJ400 linear switch offers a consistent and steady resistance that ensures smooth keystrokes, though specific details on its tactile characteristics remain unspecified. Meanwhile, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro excels in delivering a dynamic typing experience characterized by its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky attributes. This switch guarantees a well-rounded feel with a satisfying rebound and smooth transitions, making it highly appealing for both typists and gamers who prioritize an enjoyable keypress and tactile feedback. The Matcha Green Pro's extensive refinement contributes significantly to its user experience, setting it apart from the FJ400.
In summary, the HMX FJ400 linear switch provides a balanced and less intrusive sound profile, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro delivers a clackier and more resonant auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the FJ400 ensures consistent keystrokes, though it lacks the described tactile richness of the Matcha Green Pro, which offers a smooth and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should consider your personal preferences in sound and feel, but both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a balanced sound profile with solid yet gentle feedback, the FJ400 is a great option, particularly suitable for those who prefer a softer auditory experience without overwhelming clacks, making it ideal for office environments or quieter settings. However, if you crave a more pronounced auditory experience with a crisp, resonant sound and enjoy a more dynamic feel, the Matcha Green Pro would be your best bet. Its bouncy and creamy characteristics provide an engaging typing experience that can be exhilarating for gaming and fast-paced typing. Therefore, assess your priorities—whether you value a more subdued typing experience or a lively and responsive feedback—and select the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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