HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preferences in feel and sound, which is where the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches shine in distinct ways. The FJ400 is a linear switch, celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, making it an ideal choice for gamers who prioritize rapid key presses and a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that offers a discernible bump at the actuation point, providing users with satisfying tactile feedback that many typists and casual users prefer for a more engaging typing experience. While the FJ400 appeals to those seeking a seamless, uninterrupted flow of keystrokes, the Maple Leaf caters to individuals who enjoy the tactile sensation, enhancing their sense of rhythm while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and Outemu Maple Leaf switches present an interesting comparison in terms of their housing materials, particularly focusing on the top housings. The FJ400 utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which is known for creating a unique sound profile characterized by deeper, more muted tones. This material's density and rigidity contribute to a sound that is pleasing yet softer, enhancing the tactile experience when typing. In contrast, the Maple Leaf features a nylon top housing, which, while also contributing to a deeper sound, achieves this effect through its relatively softer composition. The nylon absorbs more vibration, rounding off the acoustic profile and providing a different sensorial experience compared to the FJ400's POM top. Therefore, while both switches may deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the underlying materials create distinct tonal characteristics.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, the similarities continue to emerge. Both the FJ400 and Maple Leaf opt for nylon, a classic choice that enhances the acoustic experience through its softer plastic composition. This shared material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile across both models, further blurring the lines between them. The nylon's ability to absorb sound ensures both switches provide a more muffled yet rich auditory experience when the key bottoms out. The impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience is critical, as it influences the feel and sound at the key's lowest point. Thus, both switches uphold a consistency in sound profile when it comes to the bottom housing, reinforcing their overall similarity even in diversity.
It’s crucial to note the influence each housing type has when the key is pressed versus when it is released. In the case of the FJ400, the POM top housing is more impactful in defining the sound upon release, offering a sharper contrast compared to the softer nylon found in the Maple Leaf. Consequently, when both switches are compared in their entirety, the blend of different materials leads to nuanced sensations. The nylon components in both models amplify the richness and absorbency of sound, while the POM top of the FJ400 introduces a crispness that sets it apart from the Maple Leaf’s entirely nylon design. Ultimately, while their compositions vary, the focus on nylon across the bottom housings ensures that they deliver similar richness in sound, making for a compelling comparison.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Maple Leaf switch features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. As such, the FJ400 is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial typing experience for those who favor tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range, the FJ400's lighter force may be appealing to those who prioritize ease of use, while the Maple Leaf appeals to users who enjoy a firmer press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you opt for the FJ400 switch, you will experience a deeper keystroke, which can provide a more substantial feel under your fingers, ideal for those who prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers and those who engage in rapid keystrokes. Ultimately, if you're leaning towards responsiveness and a more tactile experience, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice, while the FJ400 appeals to users seeking a more profound and deliberate keystroke.
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 Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 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 it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for its balanced sound profile, striking a middle ground that makes it versatile across various keyboard setups. This allows for a blend of pleasant acoustics without being overly loud or too muted, making it suitable for both quiet work environments and casual gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have a well-defined reputation for its sound characteristics, so it's challenging to offer a direct comparison. However, one can expect that sound will vary with the choice of board and keycaps, potentially affecting how each switch sounds in practice.
Regarding feel, the FJ400 is recognized for offering a smooth linear experience, meaning that it provides uninterrupted movement without any tactile bump; this allows for quick key presses, making it popular for fast typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf presents a tactile profile, which means it includes a noticeable bump at actuation. This tactile feedback is often preferred by typists seeking a more engaging keypress that can enhance typing accuracy. The difference in feel between these two switches caters to different user preferences—smooth versus tactile.
In summary, the HMX FJ400 linear switch provides a well-rounded sound and smooth feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy a clean, uninterrupted typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback despite its less defined sound profile. Depending on your typing style and preference for sound, you can find satisfaction in either switch, though they serve different user desires with their unique traits.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of typing style, sound, and feedback. If you favor a smoother and quieter typing experience, the FJ400 is an excellent option, given its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, which offers a balanced feel that can accommodate both casual gaming and typing. Its sound profile is generally described as more subdued, making it suitable for quieter environments where you don’t want to disturb others. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback while typing and prefer a more pronounced sensation with each keystroke, the Maple Leaf tactile switch is the way to go. With a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, it provides a firmer feel, which can be beneficial for those who like a bit more resistance and inherent feedback in their keystrokes. This switch is ideal for typing tasks that benefit from distinct tactile responses, although its sound may be more pronounced compared to the FJ400. Thus, your decision should revolve around whether you prioritize the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile sensation of a heavier switch, ultimately enhancing your overall typing experience.
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