HMX FJ400 vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between various options to suit their typing preferences. The HMX FJ400 linear switch stands out as a well-rounded choice, delivering a balanced sound profile that appeals to those seeking a harmonious typing experience. With its middle-ground position in the HMX Film switch lineup, it offers consistency and stability for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea, crafted by BSUN, introduces a unique auditory experience characterized by its fairly high-pitched yet muted sound. This switch is designed for users who appreciate a subtle yet presence-filled keypress, thanks in part to its Ly-stem material that ensures smooth and effortless actuations. While the FJ400 may be ideal for users who value balance and versatility, the Milk Tea is perfect for those who seek a distinctively resonant and polished feel. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the PH Studio Milk Tea share similar sound profiles and characteristics in their top housing, both made of POM. This material is known for its ability to produce a sound that is described as incredibly pleasing and unique, with a deeper and relatively muted quality. The use of POM in both models ensures that they will offer similar auditory experiences when typing. Whether using the FJ400 or the Milk Tea, typists can expect a satisfying acoustic response that adds to the overall enjoyment of using the switches, emphasizing a warm tonal quality that resonates well.
However, the bottom housing materials diverge between the two models, with the FJ400 employing nylon and the Milk Tea using POM. Nylon is a classic switch housing material recognized for its softer properties, enabling it to absorb sound more efficiently than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, lending an impressive impact to the switch's bottom-out experience, creating an overall rounder and more dulcet tone. Meanwhile, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing aligns with its top housing to create a cohesive sound profile, but lacks the unique absorbing characteristics of nylon. Typists using the Milk Tea may notice a different impact and resonance when pressing down on the keys compared to the FJ400.
Consequently, the contrasting bottom housing materials result in differing tactile experiences when engaging with these switches. While the POM top housing in both offers a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the FJ400 allows for a fuller auditory response upon bottoming out, enhancing overall depth. In essence, if you're looking for a more comprehensive auditory experience, the FJ400 may appeal to those who appreciate the unique sound that nylon provides in combination with POM's smooth characteristics. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's completely POM construction delivers a consistent experience through both top and bottom housings, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer uniform sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, notable differences emerge that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers. The HMX FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which positions it as a medium-weight switch, offering a balanced feel for users who enjoy a more substantial push. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch features a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it more suitable for those seeking a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue. As a result, the FJ400 is the heavier option, ideal for users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback, while the Milk Tea is the lighter choice, providing comfort for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. If one desires switches with similar results in terms of typing experience, managing the actuation force and bottom out force can guide users toward a balance suitable for their specific needs, but in this case, the two switches distinctly cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX FJ400 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced feel, the FJ400 will provide a deeper key press compared to the Milk Tea, which may feel more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance. Shorter travel distances, like that of the Milk Tea, are often favored by gamers seeking faster response times, whereas the FJ400 may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will determine which one better suits your typing or gaming experience.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 suitable for users who prefer a more neutral auditory experience without overwhelming highs or lows. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch features a unique auditory blend characterized by its fairly high-pitched sound that leans towards a clacky, resonant quality. This means that while the Milk Tea switch can produce a bright, sharp click, it manages to retain a muted essence, resulting in a sound that is both crisp and subtle. If you're looking for an engaging auditory feedback while typing, the Milk Tea is likely to deliver a more pronounced and immersive experience, whereas the FJ400 will appeal to those who prefer a softer sound.
When considering the feel of the switches, the HMX FJ400 is noted for its lack of specific feel characteristics, making it somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch excels in this area with its polished and silky attributes, providing users with a refined and exceptionally smooth typing experience. The careful craftsmanship in the Milk Tea makes every keystroke feel fluid and effortless, thanks to reduced friction and seamless key travel. If you're someone who appreciates smooth and luxurious typing sensations, the Milk Tea switch will likely satisfy your preferences far more readily than the FJ400.
Overall, the FJ400 serves as a solid choice for users looking for a balanced sound, while the Milk Tea switch stands out for its elevated auditory experience and superior tactile feel. The Milk Tea's high-pitched sound and silky touch could be more appealing to those who prioritize both auditory and tactile feedback in their typing experience. However, if you're looking for a switch that is less intrusive in sound, the FJ400 might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory experience and a smooth typing feel or a more understated sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, your choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, which provides a good balance between responsiveness and resistance, the FJ400 may be the better option for you. Its balanced sound profile is suited for those who appreciate a subtler auditory experience while typing, making it great for both everyday use and office environments. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a lighter switch with a lower bottom-out force of 43.5 grams, and you enjoy a more vibrant sound experience with a clacky and high-pitched resonance, the Milk Tea switch might be your pick. It offers an effortless typing experience with its polished and silky feel, perfect for fast typists looking for a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In essence, choose the FJ400 for a solid, balanced feel and sound, while the Milk Tea is ideal for an ethereal typing experience filled with brightness and smoothness.
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