HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Spring Breeze

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The FJ400, a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile, is ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for both gaming and office environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze, categorized as a clicky switch, delivers an audible "click" with each keystroke, providing satisfying auditory and tactile feedback that many typists enjoy for enhanced typing accuracy and a spirited writing experience. Each switch has its own allure—whether you lean towards the seamless operation and subtleness of the FJ400 or the energetic, feedback-rich experience of the Spring Breeze. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

Outemu Spring Breeze Clicky

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches showcase different materials in their top housings, yielding distinctive sound profiles influenced by their respective compositions. The FJ400 employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which contributes to an impressive sound characteristic of a deeper and more muted tone when compared to traditional switches. This unique sound profile can enhance the auditory experience for typists seeking a softer feedback mechanism. In contrast, the Spring Breeze opts for a nylon top housing, a material known for its classic use in switch production. The softness of nylon fosters a fuller and deeper sound profile, akin to that of the FJ400’s POM but slightly different in character. While the tonal qualities might align in terms of depth, the POM’s brighter peaks might not be fully captured by the nylon's absorption traits.

Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, ensuring a level of consistency in the sound experience they deliver. As noted, nylon is a softer plastic that inherently absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound profile. Both the FJ400 and the Spring Breeze benefit from the same qualities of this nylon bottom housing, which provides a grounding element to the overall auditory output. This shared material helps facilitate a deeper and fuller sound experience, allowing typists to enjoy a uniform auditory sensation regardless of the convoluted dynamics introduced by their top housings.

When considering tactile feedback, the differences between the top housings will ultimately balance out. The POM top housing of the FJ400 will influence sound significantly when releasing a key, while the nylon used in both switches will dominate the bottom-out sound on pressing down. Although the switches employ different top materials, the shared bottom housing composition helps maintain consistency in feel and a deeper auditory sensation. Thus, users can expect a similar depth of sound primarily due to the nylon bottom, illustrating how even with different top housing materials, they can achieve comparable acoustic results in their keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, we can see some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Spring Breeze offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might lean towards the Outemu Spring Breeze, while those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience may find the FJ400 more appealing due to its heavier actuation force. Overall, the FJ400 is the heavier option, whereas the Spring Breeze is lighter, catering to different preferences among users.

Travel distance

The HMX FJ400 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Spring Breeze requires a greater key press distance to actuate than the FJ400. If you're looking for a switch that provides a more responsive feel, the FJ400's shorter travel distance may suit you better as it allows for quicker key presses, which is particularly favored by gamers. Conversely, the Spring Breeze's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced actuation and physical feedback when typing, as it provides a depthier experience. Overall, if you prioritize speed and quick responses, the FJ400 would be the preferable choice, while the Spring Breeze caters to those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, making it relatively quiet compared to its clicky counterparts, which can be ideal for a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its pronounced sound with a satisfying click that provides auditory feedback with each keystroke. This distinct click can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy strong audio cues while typing. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound of any switch can be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 linear switch typically provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or resistance during the key press, which tends to appeal to users who prefer uninterrupted linear motion. Conversely, the Spring Breeze switch offers a tactile bump that is distinctly felt during the actuation, adding an additional layer of feedback during typing. This tactile response can make typing feel more engaging for those who appreciate a sensory interaction with their keyboard, while users looking for a more fluid experience might lean towards the linear FJ400.

In summary, the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you enjoy a balanced sound with a smooth, uninterrupted feel, the FJ400 may be your go-to choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more auditory and tactile experience while typing, the Spring Breeze will likely resonate with you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider your specific preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth keystroke with a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is an excellent choice. This switch can provide a comfortable and stable typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions and gaming alike. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and distinctive sounds that come with clicky switches, the Spring Breeze, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, will be appealing. This switch is particularly great for those who appreciate auditory feedback as they type, adding a fun element to your keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between the FJ400 and the Spring Breeze hinges on whether you prioritize a smooth and balanced experience or the satisfying click and feedback of a sprightly switch.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Spring Breeze Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more