HMX FJ400 vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Haimu Orange Sea stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The FJ400, positioned as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, delivers a balanced sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who seek a harmonious typing experience without distracting noise. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing feel and a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prioritize a seamless keypress while remaining unobtrusive in quieter environments. While both switches are linear and thus provide a consistent push without tactile bumps, the characteristics of sound and feel differ enough to influence your choice. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Haimu Orange Sea, there are notable differences in their top housings that significantly impact their sound profiles. The FJ400 utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which is renowned for producing a sound that is deeper and more muted. This characteristic allows for a warmer auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a richer sound. In contrast, the Orange Sea employs polycarbonate in its top housing, leading to a brighter, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer resonance, making it particularly suitable for those who seek a more vibrant auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal for users looking to illuminate their keyboard.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a commonality that influences the overall typing experience. Nylon is recognized for its ability to soften sound due to its relatively absorbent properties; both the FJ400 and Orange Sea benefit from this material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differing top housings, the nylon bottom housing acts as a unifying element, ensuring that both switches possess a certain level of warmth and depth in sound quality. This shared material may lead to similar sound characteristics when the keys bottom out, meaning that users will experience comparable auditory sensations at this point of key activation, regardless of the differences in their top housings.
In summary, while the FJ400 and Orange Sea differ in their top housing materials—POM versus polycarbonate—their bottom housing remains consistent with nylon, thereby providing a foundation for deeper sounds in both switches. The distinct sound profiles created by the top housings will shape the auditory experience during key releases, while the nylon bottom housing stabilizes the overall sound during key presses. Ultimately, these differences and similarities highlight how the choice of materials impacts the sound dynamics, allowing for tailored options to suit varied user preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea 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, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Orange Sea is lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Haimu Orange Sea more comfortable and less fatiguing. Conversely, the FJ400, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, provides a more substantial typing experience, catering to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Thus, while both switches serve the same function, they offer distinctly different tactile experiences, making the FJ400 heavier and the Orange Sea lighter among the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, it's evident that the FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, whereas the Orange Sea offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that if you're looking for a more pronounced keypress that provides greater feedback and a sense of depth, the FJ400 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation for gaming or fast typing, the Orange Sea's shorter travel distance could enhance your experience by allowing for faster response times. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for key feel and performance.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX FJ400 and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches, the FJ400 offers a balanced sound that sits comfortably in the middle of the spectrum, making it versatile for various user preferences. On the other hand, the Orange Sea is characterized by its neutral sound signature, which contributes to a quiet yet clear auditory experience during typing. It's essential to acknowledge that the sound produced by any switch can vary depending on factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps used. Nonetheless, both switches are tailored to avoid any overwhelming auditory presence, making them suitable for a range of environments.
Regarding their tactile feel, the FJ400 is known for its smoothness, allowing for a seamless typing experience that flows without interruption. In contrast, the Orange Sea switches provide a more invigorating typing sensation. They feature a medium tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced or subtle, offering a satisfying and engaging feel. This type of feedback aids in keeping the user connected to the act of typing, enhancing both comfort and efficiency. The snappy actuation force of the Orange Sea further amplifies the immersive experience, catering to typists seeking more pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the FJ400 provides a balanced sound profile and a smooth feel, the Orange Sea emphasizes a neutral auditory experience paired with an invigorating tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on which qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch, but whether you choose the FJ400 for its smoothness or the Orange Sea for its engaging feedback, both options promise to deliver satisfying results in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a switch with a medium actuation force, offering a balanced sound profile and an invigorating feel, the FJ400 may be the ideal choice for you. Its 58-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying resistance that many typists find comfortable for extended use. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy firm feedback without overwhelming pressure. On the other hand, if you prefer something lighter and smoother, the Orange Sea will likely suit your needs better. With a bottom-out force of 45 grams and an impeccably smooth typing sensation, it is perfect for users who desire a gentler touch and a refreshing experience. Its neutral sound signature complements the easy press and is ideal for a quieter workspace. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits, whether you lean towards a more pronounced tactile feedback or a sleek, effortless keystroke experience.
Mentioned in this article
