HMX FJ400 vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, preferences can vary widely based on typing style and sound profiles. Two popular options in the realm of linear switches are the HMX FJ400 and the Durock Piano. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, striking a chord between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a versatile typing experience without the distractions of excessive noise. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches stand out due to their proprietary material blend, which provides a unique gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature that many typists find exceptionally satisfying. While both switches offer linear characteristics, the FJ400 excels in delivering a balanced performance, while the Durock Piano leans into a more luxurious and refined auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs most effectively.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and Durock Piano utilize similar yet distinct housing materials that significantly impact their sound profiles and overall performance. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, recognized for producing a pleasing and unique sound characterized by deeper tones with a more muted quality. In contrast, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary POM blend for its top housing, which similarly offers a deep sound profile. Despite the differences in formulation, both housings are designed to enhance the auditory experience of the switches, suggesting that users can expect a richly satisfying sound from both keyboards, although the subtleties may vary due to the unique characteristics of the respective POM materials.

When examining the bottom housings, the FJ400 employs a nylon material that is widely acknowledged for its classic properties in switch design. Nylon's relatively softer texture allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that is appealing to many typists. Conversely, the Durock Piano also features a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing that, while not fully disclosed, is designed to provide a similarly deep sound profile. This means that even though the FJ400's bottom housing uses nylon, which contributes a distinct texture and sound dampening quality, the Durock Piano’s bottom casing still aims to achieve a comparable auditory experience through its specialized blend.

In essence, while the top and bottom housing materials of the FJ400 and Durock Piano differ, both switch designs offer complementary attributes that can create a unified sound experience. The nylon bottom of the FJ400 emphasizes softness and sound absorption, while the POM blend in the Piano works towards a satisfying result as well. Ultimately, this separation of materials means that although the two switches have different compositions, the characteristics attributed to each will collaborate to produce rich sound profiles. Users may find that both keyboards yield similar auditory satisfaction, albeit through distinct pathways defined by their specific housing choices.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, clear distinctions emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, while the Durock Piano's actuation force is unknown, it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which qualifies it as medium-heavy. Since the FJ400's actuation force is known and provides a defined push feel, it allows for lighter typing, potentially benefiting users who type for extended periods. Conversely, the Durock Piano’s heavier bottom out force may offer a more substantial feel for those who prefer firmer feedback. Overall, the FJ400 is the lighter option, while the Durock Piano is heftier, suggesting that users looking for lighter switches would favor the FJ400, whereas those seeking more resistance might lean towards the Piano.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, we see that they differ slightly. The FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Piano offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the FJ400 the shorter option between the two. The longer travel distance of the Piano switch may provide a more traditional typing experience with an added sense of depth, which some users might prefer for a more tactile feel. Conversely, the FJ400's shorter travel distance can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times. Therefore, your choice between these switches should be guided by your preference for speed versus a more substantial keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the HMX FJ400 switch, it is known for offering a balanced sound, making it a versatile choice for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch is characterized by its deep, creamy sound signature, which can be described as having a bassy quality. This deeper tone provides a richer auditory experience during key presses, reminiscent of lower frequency ranges that offer depth and resonance. It's important to remember that sound perception can also be influenced by factors like the type of keyboard and keycaps in use, but the inherent qualities of these switches set them apart in terms of auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, the FJ400's specifics are not detailed, but the Durock Piano switch excels with its frictionless and silky typing experience. This means that users will find the Pianos to have an incredibly smooth and fluid action as they press down on the keys, with minimal resistance or friction. Such traits contribute to an enhanced typing experience, making it more enjoyable over prolonged use. While the FJ400's tactile feel remains open to interpretation, it is likely that the Piano offers a more refined sensation owing to its design.

In conclusion, while both the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, the Piano stands out with its distinctly bassy sound and a remarkably smooth typing feel. The FJ400 serves as a balanced alternative, likely appealing to users who appreciate adaptability in sound. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying results, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel, although the Durock Piano clearly offers a more immersive auditory and tactile typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the Durock Piano linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you are looking for a balanced sound profile with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, then the FJ400 is an excellent option. It is particularly well-suited for those who find themselves typing or gaming for extended periods and desire a satisfying yet not overly aggressive tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a richer auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the Durock Piano switches might be the better choice for you. With a heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and a bassy sound that adds a depth to your keystrokes, these switches provide a more luxurious, frictionless glide that can make typing feel almost effortless. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's a more moderate stroke with balanced sound or a deeper, smoother experience—and choose the switch that resonates with your individual preferences for an optimal typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more