HMX FJ400 vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Jerrzi Poseidon both fall under the category of linear switches, providing a smooth and uninterrupted keypress experience. The FJ400 is well-regarded for being the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, characterized by its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who desire a tactile yet unobtrusive typing experience, perfect for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Poseidon, while less renowned for any standout features, still promises a seamless actuation that many users appreciate for its straightforward efficiency. Those seeking a silent and fluid keystroke may find the Poseidon appealing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, offering unique attributes that can enhance your typing experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Jerrzi Poseidon exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their overall acoustic characteristics. Both switches feature a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, which is noted for producing a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. This shared material contributes to a satisfying auditory experience, providing a rich, smooth sound upon key release. Consequently, users can expect similar sound qualities when engaging with the top housing of either switch, making the overall typing experience feel cohesive and harmonious.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the FJ400 and Poseidon switches diverge, leading to distinct variances in key performance. The FJ400 employs nylon for its bottom housing, a material recognized for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. This quality makes the bottom-out sound of the FJ400 more rounded and muted compared to the Poseidon's POM bottom housing, which, while still producing pleasing results, lacks the same degree of sound absorption and depth that nylon offers. Therefore, the tactile and auditory sensations experienced when bottoming out on the FJ400 and Poseidon will differ due to the contrasting properties of nylon and POM.
While the differences in bottom housing materials lead to varied sounds and typing feelings, the combination of POM top housings across both models ensures that certain acoustic qualities remain consistent. In both cases, the influence of the top housing on sound during key release remains largely similar, bridging a gap in the overall sound profile between the two switches. Thus, while the nylon and POM bottom configurations can shape the bottom-out feel uniquely, the POM top housings ensure that users will still enjoy a complementary sound quality across both switches during their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a medium resistance that offers a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Poseidon switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions where minimal effort is preferred. However, the bottom out force for the Poseidon is unknown, leaving a gap in our comparison. While users who favor lighter switches may gravitate towards the Poseidon for its actuation, the FJ400 provides a more substantial feel at both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who enjoy a firmer keypress. Overall, individuals seeking a softer typing experience should consider the Poseidon, while those who appreciate a stronger feedback might opt for the FJ400.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Poseidon features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This 0.4 mm difference may seem minor, but it can significantly impact typing and gaming experiences. The shorter travel distance of the Poseidon may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, offering a slightly snappier feel with less key travel required. In contrast, the FJ400's longer travel distance might be preferable for users who appreciate a more substantial depth and tactile feedback during key presses. Therefore, while both switches are effective for different preferences, the FJ400 is the longer option and the Poseidon the shorter one, catering to distinct user needs in their travel experience.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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
The sound profile of the HMX FJ400 linear switch is characterized as balanced, positioning it as a versatile choice for various users seeking a pleasing auditory experience without overpowering noise. On the other hand, no specific sound characteristics are available for the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, leaving it a bit of a mystery in terms of its auditory appeal. Additionally, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can vary significantly based on factors such as the keyboard construction and the keycaps used, meaning that even if the Poseidon lacks defined sound qualities, it may perform adequately when paired with the right components.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is recognized for its smoothness and consistency throughout the keypress, attributes that many users appreciate for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the feel of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch is not defined, which introduces uncertainty about its tactile performance. A smooth pressing action is generally indicative of quality in linear switches, but without further details on the Poseidon, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison.
In summary, if you're considering the HMX FJ400, you can expect a balanced sound and a smooth feel, making it a strong contender for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Jerrzi Poseidon lacks detailed information, especially regarding sound and feel, one might approach it with an open mind, recognizing that quality can often be discovered through personal experience and experimentation with different setups. If the Poseidon does offer a smooth pressing experience, users will find similarities in performance between these two switches, but those expectations would depend on subjective experiences and contextual factors.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, your decision should be guided by your specific preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a balanced sound profile and a tactile experience that caters to medium force requirements, the FJ400 may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you value a consistent performance across various applications, from gaming to typing. On the other hand, if you seek an innovative switch without the traditional considerations of bottom-out force and are interested in exploring what the Poseidon might offer without the conventional data, this could be an intriguing option for experimentation, particularly if you prioritize softness under your fingers. In this way, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a satisfying sound while typing, the FJ400 is likely your best bet. Conversely, if you're curious about how a different switch feels without a known bottom-out force, the Poseidon could be a fascinating addition to your keyboard collection. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a switch matter most to you in your daily use to make the best-informed choice.
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