HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Silent Yellow both stand out as linear options, each catering to different preferences and needs among typists and gamers alike. The FJ400 is renowned for its balanced sound profile, striking a middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup that appeals to users seeking a solid typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow, while not widely recognized for a standout feature, provides an exceptionally quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those who desire a more serene typing environment, whether at home or in an office setting. Both switches offer unique benefits—users might gravitate towards the FJ400 for its well-rounded performance or choose the Silent Yellow for its acoustic-friendly design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Silent Yellow, we see notable distinctions in the top housing, while the bottom housing remains consistent between the two. The FJ400 features a top housing made from POM (polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This is in contrast to the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to polycarbonate's stiffer composition. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among users seeking visual appeal alongside auditory performance.
On the bottom housing front, both the FJ400 and the Silent Yellow utilize nylon, which is celebrated for its ability to create a fuller, deeper sound. The softness of nylon contributes to this profile by absorbing more sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted audio experience. As both switches share this nylon bottom housing, they achieve a similar auditory outcome at the bottom out, characterized by that deeper sound signature that is quintessential to switches utilizing nylon in their design.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Silent Yellow create varied sound profiles during different stages of keypress actions. While the FJ400’s POM top produces a muted and deeper sound upon release, the Silent Yellow’s polycarbonate top delivers a crispier and higher-pitched sound. However, the common nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches resonate with a rich and full auditory experience upon bottoming out. Thus, while the top housings diverge in their acoustic characteristics, the nylon bottom lends a familiar foundation, allowing both switches to excel in their unique ways while also delivering similar results at the bottom.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we observe some key differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Silent Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Silent Yellow requires less force to register a keystroke, it has a heavier feel when bottoming out. For users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, the Outemu Silent Yellow is the preferable choice. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the FJ400, which offers a stronger actuation. Overall, while both switches are medium-weight, the Silent Yellow is the lighter option, making it more suitable for extended use without fatigue, whereas the FJ400 provides a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX FJ400 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the FJ400 allows for a more responsive keystroke, appealing to gamers who favor shorter distances for quicker reactions. In contrast, the Silent Yellow provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, if you're seeking faster response times and a more abrupt feel, the FJ400 would be the better choice, while the Silent Yellow caters to those who enjoy a fuller keystroke. Overall, the Silent Yellow is the longer of the two, while the FJ400 is the shorter option.
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 Silent Yellow 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
The HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, which makes it suitable for a variety of environments, including both workspaces and home settings. Its auditory feedback is not overly pronounced, making it unobtrusive while still providing a satisfying level of acoustic presence. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch focuses on minimizing sound, resulting in a notably quieter typing experience. This makes the Silent Yellow particularly appealing for users who prioritize stealthiness, whether in shared spaces or during late-night typing sessions. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, they each excel in their respective sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the FJ400 provides a smooth and consistent linear experience, which allows for fluid key presses without any tactile bumps. This quality enhances the overall typing experience, making it a great choice for users who enjoy a seamless transition between key presses. The Silent Yellow switch also boasts a smooth linear feel, designed for those who appreciate a gentle touch without the distraction of noise or feedback. Both switches deliver a similar linear sensation, ensuring that typists can enjoy a comfortable experience with any of these switches.
Overall, the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches cater to different sound preferences while offering a similar smooth feel. The FJ400 strikes a balance, providing a mild sound profile that works well in various settings, while the Silent Yellow is ideal for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a pleasant linear feel with either option, making both switches highly suitable for users who value a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a balanced sound profile and a more moderate actuation experience, the FJ400 would be an excellent choice. It offers a smooth keystroke that is neither too light nor too heavy, making it suitable for both typists and gamers who might appreciate its adaptability. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, perhaps for a shared workspace or late-night gaming sessions, the Silent Yellow is a strong contender. Although it has a slightly higher bottom-out force, its sound-dampening characteristics make it an excellent option for minimizing noise while maintaining a solid tactile experience. In essence, if you value a harmonious sound and feel that caters to a variety of tasks, go with the HMX FJ400. However, if prioritizing silence without compromising on performance is crucial for you, then the Outemu Silent Yellow should be your switch of choice.
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