HMX FJ400 vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Mint can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX FJ400 is celebrated for its balance, positioned as the midpoint in the HMX Film switch lineup, delivering a harmonious sound profile that suits a variety of preferences. It offers a dependable, smooth actuation that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is renowned for its satisfyingly smooth feel, featuring a long pole stem that creates a distinct "poppy thockiness" when typing—making it a favorite for users who enjoy a light and fleeting typing sensation. While both switches provide linear characteristics, they cater to different aspects of user enjoyment. The FJ400 appeals to those seeking a balanced experience, while the Mint offers a more specialized sonic and tactile reward. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and KTT Mint switches exhibit distinct acoustic profiles primarily shaped by their top housing materials. The FJ400 utilizes a POM top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique characteristic stems from the specific properties of POM, which allows for a pleasing resonance but tends to lend a warmer tone to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its stiffer composition that results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate also serves a practical purpose for enthusiasts who prioritize RGB lighting, as it allows for enhanced light diffusion. Thus, while both switches harness the benefits of their respective top housing materials, the resulting auditory experiences diverge significantly: the FJ400 leans towards a warmer, softer sound, whereas the Mint delivers a more pronounced and crystalline auditory feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, both the FJ400 and Mint utilize nylon, a tried-and-true material in switch design. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition that absorbs more sound waves. This shared characteristic means that when pressed, both switches will provide a similar bottom-out sensation that lends itself to a rounded, muffled sound. The shared use of nylon also enables both switches to exhibit a more consistent tactile feel under typing conditions, despite the different auditory signatures produced by their top housings. Therefore, while the switches vary in their upper sound profiles, they resonate similarly in terms of bottom-out acoustics.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials paired with the same nylon bottom housing leads to a unique acoustic interplay in both the HMX FJ400 and KTT Mint switches. The top housing's material largely determines the auditory response when the key is released, with the FJ400's POM providing a softer, more muted sound, while the KTT Mint's polycarbonate creates a brighter tone. Simultaneously, the nylon bottom housing enriches the experience by allowing both switches to exhibit deeper sound characteristics when bottoming out. Therefore, despite their contrasting top materials, users can anticipate a pleasingly full sound profile from both switches, underscoring how the interaction of different materials can create complementary results in the keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Mint switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Mint switch is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the FJ400's heavier forces may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, providing a firmer response while typing. Ultimately, while both switches offer medium and medium-light resistance levels, the KTT Mint is the lighter option, making it a better choice for users prioritizing comfort over long durations.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, the FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Mint offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a preference among users based on their typing or gaming needs, as the shorter FJ400 may provide quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. In contrast, the KTT Mint, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing keys, offering a sense of depth that some users find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance, responsive feedback, and overall typing 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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 switch provides a balanced auditory experience suitable for a variety of environments. It is designed to produce a middle-ground sound profile, which means it won't be too loud or too soft, making this switch versatile for both home and office use. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch has a distinctive low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that lends it a satisfying depth while typing. It also has a neutral sound profile that makes it approachable for all users, regardless of their level of experience. While both switches offer different sound characteristics, the FJ400’s balanced nature and the Mint's rich, thocky resonance can appeal to different preferences, allowing users to find a sound that suits their typing environment.
Regarding feel, the HMX FJ400 is known for providing a balanced touch experience, although specifics on the exact feel are not detailed. The KTT Mint, on the other hand, is celebrated for its mild feel and polished finish. This creates a typing experience that is gentle and refined, minimizing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. The long pole stem of the Mint switch contributes to a unique tactile experience that many find pleasing. In this regard, while the FJ400 is likely to cater to users looking for a balanced feel, the Mint presents a more refined and smooth typing experience that enhances overall satisfaction.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and KTT Mint linear switches offer unique benefits catering to different preferences. The FJ400 delivers a well-rounded sound and feel, making it suitable for diverse typing environments, while the KTT Mint stands out with its deep, bass-heavy sound and exceptionally smooth typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference; if you appreciate a balanced sound that fits various situations, the FJ400 is a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more immersive audio experience with a polished touch, the Mint could be your ideal switch. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience significantly.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a slightly heavier tactile experience that provides a balanced sound profile and is versatile enough for both gaming and typing, the FJ400, with its medium 58g bottom out force, is an excellent choice. Its balanced sound and feel cater well to users who enjoy a more grounded typing experience without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more feather-light touch and appreciate a smoother, refined typing experience, the KTT Mint switch might be more suited for you. With a lower 53g actuation force and the added poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem, the Mint offers a satisfying and pleasant typing experience that is both approachable and enjoyable for extended periods, whether you're typing at home or in an office setting. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a slightly firmer feel and balance or a lighter, smooth, and enjoyable experience.
Mentioned in this article
