HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Cream Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a linear switch like the HMX FJ400 and a tactile switch like the Outemu Cream Yellow can significantly affect your typing experience. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile and smooth key press, making it an ideal option for users who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience devoid of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow, while lacking a notable distinguishing feature, offers a tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced response when typing or gaming. Choosing the right switch ultimately depends on your personal preference for noise levels and feedback: linear switches tend to be preferred for fast-paced gaming, while tactile switches can enhance typing accuracy. 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 Yellow Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches, it's clear that both use nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. The nylon material is characterized by its relatively softer plastics, allowing it to absorb sound effectively, thus producing a duller, fuller auditory experience. This similarity is significant because while the bottom housing has a profound effect on the feel and sound when the key bottoms out, both switches will exhibit a consistent sound quality during this action, attributed to the shared nylon material.

However, the top housings of these switches differ notably, as the FJ400 employs POM while the Cream Yellow is constructed from nylon. The POM top housing in the FJ400 is said to generate a unique sound profile that is moderately deeper and more muted compared to the nylon used in the Cream Yellow’s top housing, which, while still softer, lacks the specific auditory characteristics that POM brings. This divergence means that while the bottom-out sound will exhibit remarkable similarities due to the shared nylon material, the sound when releasing a key will differ between the two switches. The POM top housing will produce its distinct tonal quality, resulting in a varied auditory response that might not be fully replicated by the nylon.

In practical terms, this contrast in materials means that users can expect differing experiences when typing on the two switches. The HMX FJ400 may offer a slightly more nuanced auditory experience due to the POM top, enhancing mid and high frequencies, while still benefiting from the warm, full sound provided by the nylon bottom. Conversely, the Outemu Cream Yellow will maintain a consistent and softer sound profile across both its housings. Ultimately, while the two switches share a common ground through the nylon bottom housing, the top housing materials will lead to distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, there are notable differences and similarities in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow features a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer less resistance when typing might find the Cream Yellow more comfortable for long sessions. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 60 grams, making the latter slightly heavier at the bottom. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter touch would likely opt for the Cream Yellow switch, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial feel might prefer the FJ400, particularly at bottoming out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cream Yellow comes in at a slightly shorter distance of 3.3 mm. This difference highlights the FJ400 as the option for those who appreciate a deeper key press experience, offering a more substantial feel during use. In contrast, the Cream Yellow, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and those who prioritize quicker response times in their typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you value a more robust key action, the HMX FJ400 is the better choice, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow is ideal for those seeking a more responsive and swifter actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is recognized for its balanced sound profile, which strikes a pleasant median between muted and pronounced, making it versatile for various environments, whether at work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile attributed to it, which means its acoustic qualities might be more dependent on the keyboard assembly and keycap materials being used.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 offers a smooth linear action without any tactile bump, allowing for fluid keystrokes that many typists and gamers appreciate. This smoothness contributes to a streamlined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a distinct tactile feedback, making it more engaging for users who enjoy a noticeable bump when pressing down on the keys, which can help with typing accuracy and feedback.

Overall, both switches cater to different preferences—those who prefer the seamless experience of the HMX FJ400 will enjoy its balanced sound and smooth action, while users looking for tactile feedback will favor the Outemu Cream Yellow. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, you're likely to find satisfaction in either switch, as they both deliver unique qualities suited to varying needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing and gaming experiences. If you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a balanced sound profile, the FJ400 is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom out force of 58 grams ensures a comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for both long typing sessions and gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback that provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point without being overly loud, the Cream Yellow switch with its slightly firmer 60-gram bottom out force is likely to resonate with you. It would be particularly advantageous for tasks that benefit from tactile feedback, like programming or drafting. Ultimately, consider what you value more in your keyboard experience—whether it's the smoothness of the FJ400 or the tactile sensation of the Cream Yellow—to make the choice that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more