HMX FJ400 vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Perky both occupy the realm of linear switches, yet they each bring unique characteristics to the table. The FJ400 serves as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, known for its balanced sound profile that appeals to users who appreciate a harmonious blend of acoustic feedback and smooth actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Perky, with its softer nylon housings, delivers a typing experience that is neutral and deeply satisfying, featuring a shorter travel distance that creates a more condensed yet responsive feel. This makes the Perky an excellent choice for those who prioritize agility and speed in their typing. While both switches offer advantages, your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the HMX Perky present intriguing contrasts in their housing materials, particularly with respect to their top housings. The FJ400 utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which contributes to a unique sound profile characterized by deeper and more muted tones. This material allows the FJ400 to produce a sound that is pleasing yet distinct, likely appealing to users who prefer a less aggressive auditory feedback during typing sessions. In contrast, the Perky is equipped with a nylon top housing, renowned for its classic reputation in switch design. This nylon composition offers a fuller sound profile that resonates deeper, produced by its ability to absorb sound effectively compared to harder plastics like POM. Therefore, while both switches yield an enjoyable auditory experience, they do so through different sound characteristics influenced by their respective top housing materials.
Examining the bottom housings, both the FJ400 and the Perky employ nylon as the material. This shared choice results in similar sound profiles associated with their bottom housings, offering a deeper and rounder sound during keystrokes. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, which enhances the overall typing experience for both switches. As a result, regardless of the difference in top housing materials, users can expect a consistent auditory sensation when bottoming out on either switch. The synergy of typing on nylon in both instances means that the bottom-out feel and sound share common traits between the two, allowing the switches to resonate with users who appreciate a muted yet pleasure-inducing typing experience.
Ultimately, the differences in sound produced by the FJ400 and the Perky are largely influenced by their top housing materials, with POM presenting a more muted sound profile compared to the fuller tones emitted by nylon. However, the use of nylon in both bottom housings creates a harmonious blend, ensuring that despite their disparities, both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback during use. Users who appreciate the deep, rounded sound from the bottom stages of keystrokes will find uniformity between these models despite their top housing contrasts. Consequently, whether choosing the FJ400 or the Perky, users can expect a rewarding typing experience characterized by rich sound dynamics driven by the characteristic properties of nylon.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 and the HMX Perky linear switches present distinct characteristics when it comes to 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 that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. This difference indicates that the FJ400 is heavier overall, appealing to users seeking a firmer keystroke, while the Perky is lighter, catering to those who favor ease of use during extended gaming or work periods. Both switches effectively produce functional results in their respective categories, with the FJ400 offering a more pronounced resistance and the Perky delivering a gentler feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Perky offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the FJ400 provides a more substantial depth, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Perky's shorter distance can benefit gamers and those seeking quicker response times, making it more suitable for fast-paced activities. Therefore, if one prefers a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, the FJ400 would be the better option, while the Perky caters to those who favor a snappier and less abrupt action. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a hearty depth or a quicker response.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for delivering a balanced sound profile, making it a versatile choice that should blend well in various environments without drawing too much attention. It strikes a midpoint between louder, more tactile switches and quiter options, allowing for a satisfying yet unobtrusive experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch, crafted with softer and glittery nylon housings, offers a unique auditory experience that is likely to be more muted and refined due to its construction. While the specific sound qualities of the Perky switch are not explicitly detailed, it can generally be inferred that the softer housings contribute to a less pronounced acoustic footprint. It's important to remember that the overall sound experience of both switches will vary, influenced by the choice of keyboard, the type of keycaps used, and the environment in which they are employed.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 offers a well-rounded typing experience that is likely characterized by fluidity and ease of use, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. The switch is designed to provide a reliable linear feel, promoting smooth keystrokes without any jitter. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch features a more condensed travel distance, which contributes to a short, rapid response during typing. This design choice can lead to a sensation that is both neutral and deeply satisfying, catering to those who seek an efficient and impactful typing experience. The difference in travel distance between the two switches will make the Perky feel faster and more responsive, while the FJ400 may offer a slightly more traditional linear feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The FJ400 stands out with its balanced acoustic profile and reliable linear action, making it a solid all-around choice. Meanwhile, the Perky's softer construction and short travel distance provide a unique typing experience that is deeply satisfying and efficient. Ultimately, while they differ in some subjective qualities, both switches can deliver enjoyable results depending on what aspects of sound and feel matter most to you.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Perky linear switches, you should consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams that provides a balanced and audible typing experience, the FJ400 would be the better choice. Its even sound profile makes it suitable for users who enjoy a tactile feedback without being overly harsh, making it great for both typing and gaming scenarios where a bit of audio feedback enhances performance. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter experience with a softer actuation force of 50 grams, the Perky switches would serve you well. They are ideal for prolonged typing sessions due to their comfortable and condensed travel distance, which contributes to a smoother keypress. Additionally, the glittery nylon housing adds a unique aesthetic, making them an excellent choice if you value both visual flair and typing satisfaction. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal comfort and the specific tasks you plan to use your keyboard for, ensuring that you choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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