HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Cream Blue

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Cream Blue offer two distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The FJ400, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth actuation and balanced sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize quiet operation and swift key presses for rapid typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, delivers an audible and tactile feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying, providing a more engaging experience, albeit at the cost of a louder sound output. If you’re looking for a subtle, streamlined typing experience, the FJ400 might be your go-to, while the Cream Blue could be perfect for those who enjoy the satisfaction of pronounced key clicks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches, we see notable distinctions that impact their sound profiles and user experience. The FJ400 utilizes a POM top housing, which is known for producing a unique and deep sound profile with a muted quality. In contrast, the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing that has long been recognized as a classic switch material. The nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a rounder and fuller audio experience. While both switches may deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the FJ400's POM housing offers a slightly more specific character in sound due to its harder texture compared to the Cream Blue's nylon.

Examining the bottom housings, both the FJ400 and the Cream Blue share a commonality, as they both employ nylon for this part of the switch. Here, the nylon material contributes to the overall sound profile by absorbing sound, leading to a soft and pleasant typing experience that users can appreciate. This shared housing material means that when typing, users will experience a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the effect of the nylon's acoustic properties. Therefore, while the top housings differ in material and its resultant sound profile, the bottom housings align, ensuring that the deep and muted sound quality translates through both switches when pressed.

Ultimately, the variances between the top housing materials of the FJ400 and the Cream Blue create a unique sound experience that contrasts with their shared nylon bottom housing. Users can expect a more marked difference in auditory feedback during key release due to the FJ400's POM top, while the shared nylon bottom ensures that the overall typing feel remains consistent across both switches. This interplay between distinct top materials and a common bottom housing highlights the importance of both components in shaping the switches’ sound profiles and tactile feedback, allowing for nuanced preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we notice some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ; the FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is lighter than the Cream Blue's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches feel similar when initially pressed, the Cream Blue provides a more substantial resistance when bottoming out, catering to users who prefer a firmer feel in their keystrokes. In summary, the FJ400 is lighter overall, while the Cream Blue offers a more pronounced typing experience due to its greater bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we find a noticeable difference. The FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cream Blue extends to 4 mm. Therefore, one can conclude that the Cream Blue offers a longer travel distance, which might appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced keypress and a tactility that feels deeper. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the FJ400 could be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive typing experience. Consequently, users' preferences will dictate their choice; those who favor a hearty depth may gravitate toward the Cream Blue, while those who prefer a quicker feedback mechanism may opt for the FJ400.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for its balanced sound profile, which provides a clean and subtle acoustic experience without overwhelming noise. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, including both office settings and quieter home spaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch produces a distinct and pronounced sound, characterized by an audible "click" at actuation. The sharp click adds an engaging auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying but can be a bit intrusive in shared workspaces. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound experience can greatly depend on factors such as the choice of keyboard chassis and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the FJ400 offers a smooth linear experience, which means that there is no tactile bump or click during the key press. This allows for uninterrupted keystrokes that are particularly preferred by gamers and fast typists who value speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Cream Blue switch features a tactile bump that gives noticeable feedback at the actuation point, coupled with that iconic click sound. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy for some users, but others might find it creates a slight disruption in their typing rhythm.

In conclusion, the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch cater to different preferences based on their unique sound and feel characteristics. The FJ400 appeals to those who favor a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the Cream Blue is ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback and a tactile sensation when typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound profiles or tactile responses, and you’ll find that both options deliver distinct and satisfying experiences typical of their respective switch types.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your preferences for feel, sound, and the intended use of your mechanical keyboard. If you're looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience with a balanced sound profile, the FJ400 is an excellent choice, especially for long periods of typing, gaming, or work that requires lower noise levels. Its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams provides a responsive yet comfortable experience that caters to a wide range of users. On the other hand, if the satisfying tactile feedback of audible clicks is more appealing to you, the Cream Blue switch might be the way to go. With a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, it offers a more pronounced tactile response and a satisfying click sound, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more traditional typing experience or those working in quieter environments where sound feedback is acceptable. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and sound preference, ensuring you choose the switch that enhances your overall experience on your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more