HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Dustproof Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences, even though they are both linear switches. The FJ400, regarded as a balanced option within the HMX Film switch lineup, features a harmonious sound profile that strikes a pleasing balance between soft and audible feedback, ideal for users who appreciate a smooth typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black boasts impressive durability and resilience against dust, making it a strong choice for gamers and typists who seek reliability in various environments. While one may prefer the refined acoustics of the HMX FJ400, another might appreciate the rugged protection of the Outemu Dustproof Black. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Dustproof Black utilize different materials for their top housing, resulting in distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. The FJ400 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deep and muted sound. This characteristic makes it ideal for users looking for a more subdued auditory experience, as the POM material evokes a warm tone that is less intrusive. In contrast, the Dustproof Black uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which enhances resonance and clarity, allowing for a more vibrant typist experience. Thus, while both switches offer quality performance, the FJ400 caters to users who favor a richer, deeper sound while the Dustproof Black suits those who prefer a brighter auditory feedback.

When examining the bottom housing of both switches, they are identical in their use of nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller auditory experience. The characteristics of nylon enable both the FJ400 and Dustproof Black to deliver a deeper and more encompassing sound profile during typing, further unifying the auditory output of both switches despite their differing top housings. As nylon is inherently softer than other plastics, it produces a rounder sound when pressed, ensuring consistency in the typing experience across both models. This similarity offers users the advantage of enjoying a harmonious auditory feedback upon bottoming out, even as the top housing materials diverge in their acoustic responses.

Overall, while the top housings of the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Dustproof Black contribute to different sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users will enjoy a consistent auditory experience when typing. This combination means that the impact of the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel for both switches, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Thus, even with the contrasting qualities of the top materials, the similarities in the bottom housing provide a cohesive typing sensation that ties both models together, allowing users to tailor their experience based on their preference for either a deep and muted sound or a sharp and resonant auditory feedback.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The FJ400 requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance that may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with greater resistance under their fingers. As such, the HMX FJ400 is the lighter option overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Black is the heavier alternative. This difference in weight and force characteristics highlights the diverse preferences of users, whether they seek prolonged comfort or a more tactile engagement with their keyboard.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference can influence the feel and responsiveness of the switches. Gamers and those seeking a more immediate response might lean towards the FJ400 due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, providing a sensation of depth that some find preferable for typing and extended use. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences, the FJ400 is the shorter option, offering enhanced responsiveness, whereas the Dustproof Black provides a bit more keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for its balanced sound profile, which provides a pleasant auditory experience without being overly loud or muted. This makes it a versatile choice for users who prefer a more subdued sound while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black does not have a well-defined sound characteristic mentioned, which leaves its auditory quality somewhat ambiguous. However, it’s important to remember that the sound produced by any switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard construction, plate material, and the keycaps used, so both switches might yield similar auditory results depending on their particular setup.

When it comes to feel, the FJ400 offers a smooth keystroke that many users find satisfying, reflecting its position as a middle ground option within the HMX Film switch lineup. The Dustproof Black, while lacking a specific description for its feel, is typically associated with linear switches that provide a consistent, non-tactile experience throughout the key press. This means that despite the lack of detailed feedback for the Dustproof Black, users can expect a smooth and uninterrupted key action similar to the FJ400, making both switches appealing to those who enjoy linear mechanisms.

In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switches offer their own unique characteristics. While the FJ400 is highlighted for its balanced sound profile and smooth typing experience, the Dustproof Black remains undefined in terms of sound but can be presumed to provide a comparable smooth feel. Ultimately, both switches may appeal to users seeking a linear switch experience, with the potential for a similar typing feel and sound given the right keyboard build.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, your choice should hinge on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a balanced typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is an excellent option. It offers a smoother feel and a satisfying sound profile, making it suitable for both typing and gaming without causing fatigue during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer tactile response and don't mind a heavier actuation with an 80-gram bottom-out force, the Dustproof Black could be your go-to switch. This switch might be particularly appealing for users who like to engage in aggressive typing or gaming and require added resistance to avoid accidental key presses. Ultimately, both switches cater to different user needs, so consider your typing style, whether you prioritize a softer touch or a more robust feel, and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more