HMX FJ400 vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) highlight the diverse preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX FJ400, categorized as a linear switch, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a smooth and quiet typing experience without the distraction of audible feedback. This switch provides a seamless keystroke that is perfect for prolonged typing sessions or late-night gaming. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is a tactile switch known for its pronounced tactile bump and unique hypertactile sensation that enhances each keystroke's feedback. With its strong downstroke and even sharper upstroke bump, it offers a satisfying punchiness that many users crave for a more engaged typing experience. While the FJ400 favors a minimalist and fluid approach, the Moyu Blacks cater to those who relish tactile responses and auditory feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their auditory profiles and tactile sensations during use. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This unique acoustic quality contributes to a rich auditory experience, providing satisfaction to those who appreciate a less piercing sound when typing. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) employs a PBT top housing that yields a neutral sound profile. While it does not possess the crispness or dullness of other materials, it results in a balanced auditory output that can be more adaptable based on the user’s typing style.
Examining the bottom housings, the FJ400 utilizes a nylon material, which is historically celebrated for its ability to absorb sound and offer a fuller, deeper auditory experience. This characteristic is particularly important when considering the bottom-out sound that many users find significant in their typing experience. Meanwhile, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) opts for a PBT bottom housing, also designed to provide a neutral sound profile. Although both switch designs differ in material, they share an ability to deliver satisfactory auditory feedback that doesn't lend itself to high-pitched or overly sharp sounds, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the combination of the top and bottom housing materials in both switches leads to unique sound profiles, though they share the intent of delivering pleasant auditory feedback. The distinct materials used in the FJ400 and Moyu Black (Dark Jade) may elicit different sonic experiences, but both ultimately focus on creating a typing sound that is neither overly sharp nor muddy. For users looking for a deeper sound experience, the FJ400's nylon bottom combined with its POM top may resonate more favorably, while others may appreciate the balanced profile of the Moyu Black due to its consistent PBT housing throughout. In summary, the choice between these switches will largely reflect individual preferences for sound complexity and tactility.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch have an equal actuation force of 50 grams, meaning both switches require the same effort to trigger a keystroke, allowing for a similar typing experience in terms of actuation. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly; the FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that while both switches feel light during the actuation phase, the Moyu Black provides a more substantial resistance when bottoming out, catering to users who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the FJ400 is the lighter option overall, making it suitable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without as much finger fatigue, whereas the Moyu Black may appeal to those who enjoy a heavier tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, the differences are evident. The FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Moyu Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction makes the FJ400 the shorter of the two switches, which may appeal to users seeking quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Moyu Black's longer travel distance provides a more substantial, tactile experience that some users might prefer for a satisfying depth when typing. Thus, for those who enjoy a more abrupt and responsive feel, the FJ400 is the better option, whereas the Moyu Black caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress depth.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 boasts a balanced sound profile that ensures a harmonious typing experience. This makes it versatile for various use cases, from gaming to typing, as it avoids harsh tones or overly muted sounds. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is characterized by its resonant auditory feedback, which produces a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp sound. The unique attributes of the Moyu Black allow for a more immersive auditory experience, making it particularly enjoyable to type on. While both switches have their distinct sound qualities, the FJ400 offers balance while the Moyu Black provides resonance, achieving a satisfying auditory feedback in their own ways.
In terms of tactile feel, the FJ400 offers a smooth and steady linear experience, lending itself to rapid and uninterrupted key presses, ideal for those who prefer a traditional linear switch feel. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a pronounced tactile profile, with a sharp, strong downstroke bump, delivering a hypertactile sensation that can be felt distinctly with each press. This makes the Moyu Black suitable for users who appreciate notable feedback from their switches. The FJ400 is smooth and linear, while the Moyu Black offers an accentuated tactile experience, making them appealing to different types of typists and gamers.
In conclusion, both switches provide unique and satisfying experiences tailored to specific preferences. The HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound and a smooth linear feel for those who prefer uninterrupted key presses, while the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) excels in delivering resonant sound and a pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on your personal typing style, either switch could be a great addition to your mechanical keyboard setup, offering different appeals in sound and feel that cater to a variety of preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile resistance, then the FJ400, with its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, would be ideal for you. It's particularly suited for gamers who prioritize swift key presses and a balanced sound profile that won’t disrupt your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with an audible presence, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) might be your best bet. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams and a pronounced tactile feel, it excels in providing feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. This switch is perfect if you relish the sensation of a strong tactile bump and enjoy a resonant sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in a switch—whether it's the smoothness of linear input or the satisfying tactility of a bump.
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