HMX FJ400 vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX FJ400, known for its balanced sound profile, classified as a linear switch, provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that many typists appreciate for its quiet operation and fluid motion. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and minimal sound, allowing for an efficient typing experience without distractions. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis shines with its beautiful translucent design and tactile feedback; with a light actuation force of just 37g, it enables effortless typing while significantly reducing finger fatigue during long sessions. The 50g tactile force delivers a satisfying bump, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy a more hands-on approach to each keystroke. As such, while the FJ400 appeals to enthusiasts who prefer a smooth and silent experience, the Phalaenopsis caters to users who relish tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing sensation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the KTT Phalaenopsis exemplify two distinct approaches to switch housing materials, with the former utilizing POM and nylon, and the latter opting for polycarbonate throughout. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, more muted sound profile. This characteristic is a result of POM being a relatively softer and less resonant material compared to polycarbonate. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for clearer sound projections, enhancing the overall auditory experience as compared to the FJ400's POM housing.
On the other hand, when we examine the bottom housings, the two switches remain distinct in their sound profiles. The FJ400's nylon bottom housing produces a full and deep sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This absorption leads to a rounder sound profile, staying true to the design philosophy of the FJ400. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis sustains its polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing, resulting in a crisper and clearer auditory experience. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom functions to increase the resonance and definition of the sound produced, marking a significant departure from the FJ400's deep, muted audio profile.
Both switches, despite their material differences, can deliver a valuable typing experience through their unique sound attributes. The FJ400, with its combination of POM and nylon, offers a deeper, more muted auditory feedback that some typists may find comforting and satisfying, while the KTT Phalaenopsis aims for clarity and sharpness with its uniform use of polycarbonate. This variance allows users to select a switch that best fits their personal auditory preferences. Importantly, if both switches were to adopt similar materials in their top and bottom housings, typists could expect to experience converging sound profiles, as the properties of both housing materials would effectively blend together to create a harmonious typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The actuation force of the FJ400 is 50 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis is considerably lighter at 37 grams. This means that the FJ400 requires a greater force to trigger a keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force for the FJ400 is 58 grams, compared to the Phalaenopsis's 50 grams. Therefore, not only does the FJ400 have a heavier actuation force, but it also provides a firmer feel when bottoming out. For users seeking a lighter option for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Phalaenopsis stands out as the preferable choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. In summary, the FJ400 is the heavier option overall, while the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter, more forgiving experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that the FJ400 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Phalaenopsis features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm can significantly affect the feel of each switch during use. The FJ400's shorter distance may appeal to gamers or users seeking quick response times, as it allows for faster actuation; however, it may feel too abrupt for those who prefer a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, caters to users who appreciate a more traditional and deeper key press, providing a more satisfying tactile feedback. Therefore, depending on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth, users will gravitate towards one switch or the other based on these travel distances.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 its balanced sound profile, which means it offers a moderate auditory experience that doesn’t lean too heavily in any direction, making it versatile for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch brings a more unique auditory characteristic with its bassy and thocky tones. This results in a deeper, richer sound during key presses, emitting a satisfying thud akin to a soft knock when the key is actuated. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound will also be influenced by the keyboard design and keycap material, suggesting that both the FJ400 and Phalaenopsis could provide distinct experiences based on these factors.
Regarding feel, the FJ400's characteristics are not explicit in the provided details, which leaves its tactile response somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch boasts a tactile feel described as "stepped." This means it provides a noticeable tactile bump at the actuation point, allowing for a clear distinction in feedback during typing. This design can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for those who appreciate a defined tactile interaction without extreme pressure.
In conclusion, while the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile and leaves its feel somewhat undefined, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch impresses with its bassy and thocky sound, complemented by a satisfying stepped tactile feedback. Those seeking a nuanced auditory experience and a distinct tactile feel might gravitate toward the Phalaenopsis, while the FJ400 could serve well as a more neutral and versatile option. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in which switch better aligns with an individual's typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams for a more controlled and deliberate typing experience, the FJ400 would be ideal for you. Its balanced sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists enjoy, especially if you prefer the smoothness of linear switches without any tactile interruption. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter touch and a more engaging typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch, with its delightful 50-gram tactile bump and low actuation force of 37 grams, is excellent for minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Its stepped feedback allows you to enjoy a pronounced tactile experience that feels rewarding while also catering to softer key presses. Thus, consider your typing style—if you lean towards frequent typing with an emphasis on comfort and tactility, opt for the Phalaenopsis; while for a steady, controlled rhythm, the FJ400 would be your go-to choice.
Mentioned in this article
