HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Purple can significantly influence your typing and gaming experience. The FJ400, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and balanced sound profile, making it an excellent option for users who prefer a quieter experience with no tactile bump during actuation. In contrast, the Outemu Purple, categorized as a tactile switch, offers a noticeable tactile feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying and beneficial for precise key engagement, enhancing overall typing accuracy. While the linear FJ400 is ideal for those seeking a fluid keypress, the tactile nature of the Purple appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced response during each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When analyzing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Purple, notable distinctions emerge between their top housings. The FJ400 employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which contributes to a sound profile that is described as deeper and more muted. This softer resonance can provide a unique auditory experience, ideal for users who prefer a less pronounced auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Outemu Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for enhanced clarity and resonance, making it well-suited for users who enjoy a more vibrant auditory response. Essentially, while both switches offer distinct acoustic experiences, the FJ400 caters to those preferring a more subdued sound, while the Purple appeals to those who favor a bright, ringing feedback.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Purple utilize nylon, which similarly creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's properties as a softer plastic lead to sound absorption, thus providing a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This commonality in bottom housing materials helps create a more cohesive and familiar feeling across both switches, as the qualities that nylon provides are consistent. Regardless of the different top housing materials, both switches can achieve a similar level of depth in sound response due to their shared bottom housing composition. This highlights the importance of the bottom housing in defining the overall typographic experience, especially concerning the bottom-out sound and feel.
When considering the overall acoustic profiles of the FJ400 and the Outemu Purple, it becomes apparent that the combination of top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in determining each switch’s sound characteristics. The POM top housing of the FJ400 may dampen higher frequencies, balancing out the deeper tones produced by its nylon bottom, resulting in a harmonious blend. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple accentuates those sharper frequencies while the nylon bottom ensures that a robust depth remains present in the sound. Ultimately, while the materials differ, operators can still explore satisfying auditory experiences across the two switches, albeit with unique tonal qualities defined by their contrasting top housing materials.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch present a notable comparison in terms of actuation force, while the bottom out force of the Outemu Purple remains unknown. Both switches feature an actuation force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke, which could lead to similar typing experiences in that regard. However, the FJ400's bottom out force is measured at 58 grams, providing a firmer feel when pressing the key all the way down, making it a bit heavier overall compared to the Outemu Purple, for which the bottom out force remains unspecified. The FJ400’s medium weight may be more suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a substantial typing experience, while its familiarity in actuation force allows for comfortable prolonged usage. Without the bottom out force for the Purple switch, determining its full weight impact remains uncertain; however, the known actuation force suggests it may provide a similar typing experience but potentially with less feedback when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Purple stretches slightly longer at 4 mm. This indicates that the FJ400 will provide a more responsive experience, appealing especially to gamers who favor quick actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced feel, which can be preferable for users who enjoy the tactile feedback and deeper depth associated with this switch. Ultimately, if you seek a quicker, more responsive keystroke, the FJ400 might be the better choice, while the Purple caters to those who appreciate a more traditional and hearty key press. Thus, the FJ400 has the shorter travel distance, whereas the Outemu Purple has the longer one.
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 Purple 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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, the FJ400 is known for its balanced sound that strikes a middle ground, making it versatile for various typing or gaming scenarios. While the Outemu Purple does not have a specific reputation for sound, its tactile nature often implies a more pronounced click, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more noticeable auditory feedback during use. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by each switch can be influenced significantly by the keyboard's construction, including the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the FJ400 is celebrated for its smooth linear action, providing a fluid typing experience devoid of any tactile bumps. This can make it a favorable choice for those who prefer uninterrupted key presses, especially during fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple features a tactile bump, giving users a distinct point of resistance that adds a layer of feedback while typing. This tactile sensation can enhance typing accuracy for some users, as it provides a clear indication of actuation, creating a more engaging interaction with the keyboard.
Overall, the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Purple switches cater to different preferences in the keyboard experience. The FJ400 offers a balanced sound and smooth feel, appealing to users who favor a clean and quiet typing experience, while the Outemu Purple engages those who appreciate tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory cue. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can be effective in creating an enjoyable typing or gaming environment, highlighting the importance of personal choice in mechanical switch selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're seeking a smooth and consistent linear experience that leans toward the medium resistance of 58 grams, the HMX FJ400 linear switch would be an excellent choice, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where you benefit from a quieter sound profile and fluid keystrokes. The FJ400's balanced sound and feel make it ideal for environments where you want minimal distractions. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback, which helps in typing accuracy and provides pronounced actuation points, you might consider the Outemu Purple switch, even though some details about its specifications are currently unavailable. Tactile switches like the Purple can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate audible and tactile bumps with each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience or one with tactile feedback, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to suit your individual needs.
Mentioned in this article
