HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Silver present intriguing options, especially for those who prefer linear switches. The FJ400 stands out for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a harmonious typing experience that strikes a middle ground without being too loud or too muted, ideal for both work and casual gameplay. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, while not widely noted for standout features, has garnered attention for its quick actuation and responsiveness, making it a popular selection among gamers who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision may come down to personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as well as the intended use of the keyboard. 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 Silver Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Silver switches utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The FJ400 features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound. This is advantageous for users who prefer a sound that is subtle and less aggressive. In contrast, the Outemu Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. While both switches deliver unique auditory experiences, the FJ400 leans towards a softer, more subdued sound, whereas the Silver offers a sharper and more resonant acoustic signature.

Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which brings a similar characteristic to the overall sound experience. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality is consistent between the two switches and provides a level of coherence in their auditory output. Given that the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying tactile experience, contributing to a rounded acoustic performance despite their differing top housing materials.

The combination of varying top housing materials in the FJ400 and Outemu Silver establishes a rich contrast in sound profiles, while the uniformity of nylon in the bottom housing helps create a degree of similarity in acoustic experience. Therefore, users can expect a fulfilling sound character from both switches, albeit with unique nuances. If one is seeking diverse auditory feedback, the FJ400 will deliver a deeper, more muffled tone, while the Silver will provide a brighter and more vibrant sound. Ultimately, the duality of materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, giving users options depending on their auditory preferences.

Weight

The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a balanced performance that caters to those who prefer a moderate typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silver switch requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, suggesting a firmer feel when fully pressed down. This means that while the Silver switch is lighter when initially activating a keystroke, it provides more resistance at the end of the keypress. As a result, the FJ400 is the heavier option overall, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a stronger push feel, whereas the Outemu Silver's lighter actuation may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Consequently, users looking for a balanced yet substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the FJ400, whereas those favoring a relatively lighter touch with a stronger bottoming feel might lean towards the Outemu Silver.

Travel distance

The HMX FJ400 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in distance indicates that the FJ400 provides a more responsive feel, catering to gamers who may prefer quicker actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver's 4.0 mm travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper keypress, offering a more pronounced tactile experience that some users find less abrupt. Ultimately, if you're seeking a switch that promotes efficiency and speed, the FJ400 with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice, whereas the Silver, with the longer travel distance, may satisfy those who favor a more traditional typing feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch stands out with its balanced audio profile. This makes it versatile for various environments, delivering a satisfying yet unobtrusive sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have specific sound characteristics noted, which leaves its auditory experience somewhat undefined. However, both switches can exhibit similar acoustic results depending on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, enabling users to achieve their desired sound profile with either option.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 is characterized as providing a smooth and consistent typing experience, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a clean line of travel without tactile bumps. The Outemu Silver lacks detailed descriptions regarding its feel, leaving potential users with some uncertainty about this aspect. Nonetheless, if you're seeking a smooth linear feel, you're likely to find both switches adequate in providing that sensation, assuming construction quality and user preference is aligned.

In conclusion, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a well-defined sound and a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Silver linear switch remains more ambiguous in terms of sound and feel. If sound characteristics are critical to your typing experience, the FJ400 may be the more reliable choice. However, both switches can potentially yield similar tactile experiences due to their linear nature, as long as the accompanying components complement their designs effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you find yourself leaning towards a switch that provides a balanced feel and sound profile, then the FJ400, with its medium bottom out force of 58 grams, might be the perfect fit for you. It’s an excellent choice if you appreciate a smooth typing experience without the heft that some might find tiring during extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer response and don’t mind a slightly heavier actuation with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silver may serve you better. While the Silver lacks a standout reputation, its medium-heavy actuation could provide the satisfying resistance that certain typists crave, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a softer touch versus a more robust keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more