HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Tom

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Tom offer distinct experiences catering to different preferences. The FJ400, known for its balanced sound profile, is a linear switch that provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without tactile feedback, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed and precision in their gameplay. In contrast, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that delivers a noticeable bump upon actuation, appealing to typists who enjoy a more engaging typing experience and the satisfaction of feedback with each keypress. While the FJ400 excels in quiet operation and linearity, perfect for rapid key presses, the Tom enhances the typing experience with its tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Tom switches, one can immediately notice a distinct contrast in their top housing materials. The FJ400 features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing which yields a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to POM's unique acoustic properties, providing a rich sonic experience that is often favored in typing experiences where a fuller sound is desired. In contrast, the Outemu Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This results in a more resonant and clear auditory feedback, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a brighter sound signature, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.

On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which serves to unify their acoustic characteristics. Nylon is widely recognized for its ability to produce a deep and full sound courtesy of its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound effectively, creating a more rounded auditory experience. As both switches share this bottom housing material, they are likely to elicit similar sound qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound during typing. Therefore, regardless of the differing top housings, the impact of nylon in the lower segment of the switch ensures that both switches maintain a consistent sound profile when pressed down.

In summary, the differences in the top housing materials between the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Tom yield contrasting sound profiles: muted and deep versus bright and sharp. However, the consistency of nylon used in the bottom housing of both switches serves to create a convergence in their overall auditory experience during typing. While users may notice differences when pressing down on the keys, the shared nylon material guarantees that both switches emit a fuller, deeper sound when bottoming out, allowing for a satisfying tactile experience that is largely influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The FJ400 requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it a medium-weight option, while the Tom switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the FJ400 is better suited for those who prefer a lighter key feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue, which can be a significant advantage in work and gaming environments. In terms of bottom-out force, the FJ400 has a measurable bottom-out force of 58 grams, whereas the bottom-out force for the Tom switch is unknown. Therefore, while the FJ400 provides a clear advantage for users seeking a lighter touch and defined bottoming point, the Tom's details remain less defined, leaving some uncertainty regarding its overall typing experience.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we find that the FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tom features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the FJ400 the longer option, favoring those who prefer a more substantial keypress that can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Tom’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. This highlights the trade-off between deeper travel distances, which can enhance typing comfort, and shorter distances that cater to speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches should be guided by personal preferences regarding the desired feel and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for offering a balanced sound profile, making it a versatile option that can suit various environments. This characteristic allows it to produce a pleasant and subdued noise level, which many users appreciate for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch doesn’t have a well-documented sound profile, leaving its acoustic characteristics less defined. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound produced by both switches can also be significantly influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the choice of keycaps, meaning users may achieve similar auditory experiences depending on their specific setups.

When considering the feel of the switches, the FJ400 is recognized for its smooth action, providing a consistent and even resistance throughout the keystroke, which many typists and gamers find ideal for extended use. This smoothness can reduce finger fatigue and promote faster typing speeds. In contrast, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch, designed to provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can aid in typing accuracy by giving users tactile feedback. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience for some users, especially those who prefer a bit more engagement with their key presses.

Overall, when comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, one finds a distinct difference in the feel, with the FJ400 offering a smooth typing experience and the Tom providing tactile feedback. The sound of the FJ400 is balanced, while the Tom’s acoustic qualities remain unspecified. For those looking to explore their typing preferences, both switches will deliver unique results, and the final choice may boil down to whether one values a linear smoothness or a tactile bump.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, your decision should be guided by your specific typing preferences and intended use cases. If you prefer a smoother, more linear feel with a balanced sound profile, the FJ400 is an excellent choice, especially if you engage in activities that require quick, repetitive keystrokes or gaming, given its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams that offers a comfortable and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback that can enhance your typing experience, the Outemu Tom switch might be the better option; it caters to those who appreciate the distinct tactile bump while typing, providing a satisfying sensation that can improve typing accuracy. Although the Tom switch lacks availability details, focusing on feel and tactile feedback might steer you toward a switch that offers more physical feedback. In the end, selecting the FJ400 will facilitate smooth and uninterrupted key presses, suitable for both casual and competitive use, whereas the Tom will allow you to enjoy the physical connection and engagement with each keystroke, perfect for those who value that tactile feedback in their typing journey.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more