HMX FJ400 vs. KTT Purple Star

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and KTT Purple Star both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing styles and preferences. The HMX FJ400 stands out within the HMX Film switch lineup as a well-rounded option, featuring a balanced sound profile that appeals to typists seeking an efficient and versatile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches, crafted entirely from POM, are celebrated for their luxurious smoothness and a neutral sound signature, providing a comfortable typing experience particularly suited to those who prefer a light touch—thanks to their notably low 45g bottom-out weight. While the FJ400 delivers a more versatile sound and feel, the Purple Star is ideal for light typists looking for minimal resistance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

KTT Purple Star Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.88 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Purple Star, both switches exhibit a strong emphasis on POM and nylon materials, but they diverge in the specifics of their housing configurations. The FJ400 employs a POM top housing, which is noted for creating an incredibly pleasing sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. Similarly, the Purple Star also features a POM top housing with an identical sound character. This shared material in the top housing suggests that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience when keys are released, offering a consistent sound signature that emphasizes a deeper and more subdued tone.

In contrast, the bottom housing compositions present a notable differentiation between the two switches. The FJ400 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is celebrated for its capacity to elicit a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer plastic nature. This quality allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a mellower and rounder sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Purple Star features a POM bottom housing, which, while also possessing a unique sound quality, might not match the depth and fullness provided by the nylon of the FJ400. As the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, users could expect a distinct auditory experience when pressing the keys on these two switches.

Despite these differences, the commonality in top housing material implies that users looking for a consistent experience in the release phase may find that both switches provide satisfying results. The tonal characteristics imparted by the POM material create a mutual foundation that influences the sound upon releasing the key. However, the overall sound profile will ultimately differ during the act of pressing the key, with the FJ400 likely offering a deeper resonance thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Therefore, while both switches achieve similar results in terms of sound upon release, the typing experience and the sound produced when bottoming out will vary significantly, showcasing how housing materials can drastically influence user experience in mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we can see distinct differences that may appeal to different user preferences. The FJ400 features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it suitable for those who enjoy a firmer touch and a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to users who favor a softer feel for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Thus, while the FJ400 provides a heavier overall experience, the Purple Star offers a more tactile and effortless performance. Overall, these differences in forces suggest that users who prefer lighter switches with less strain will gravitate towards the Purple Star, while those who appreciate a stronger push will likely prefer the FJ400.

Travel distance

The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the FJ400 measuring 3.8 mm and the Purple Star at 3.5 mm. This makes the Purple Star the shorter option, offering a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers seeking a more immediate feedback. In contrast, the FJ400's greater travel distance of 3.8 mm provides a more pronounced tactile experience, potentially appealing to those who favor a deeper feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should be informed by your preferences for responsiveness versus depth in typing feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX FJ400 and KTT Purple Star linear switches, the FJ400 is known for its balanced sound signature, which tends to be neither overly pronounced nor too muted, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being intrusive. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches produce a low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This deeper acoustics adds a level of richness to the typing experience, which can be enjoyable for users who prefer a less high-pitched, more subdued auditory feedback. However, it is essential to remember that the overall sound experience can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 offers a safe middle ground, providing a typing experience that is neither overly harsh nor exceptionally soft. Its characteristics make it accessible to a wide range of typists, catering to those who appreciate a balanced resistance during typing. Conversely, the Purple Star switches are designed for an exceptionally smooth experience, providing a mild feel that makes them truly effortless to press thanks to their light 45g bottom-out force. This quality ensures that even long typing sessions remain comfortable and easy, minimizing finger fatigue. The user-friendly design of the Purple Star makes it an excellent choice for lighter typists who favor a gentler touch.

In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and KTT Purple Star linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The FJ400 is ideal for those seeking a balanced sound and a versatile feel suitable for a wide variety of typing styles. Meanwhile, the Purple Star excels in providing a smoother, low-pitched auditory experience and an extremely easy-to-press feel that is especially welcoming to lighter typists. Each switch caters to different preferences, but both can deliver a gratifying typing experience depending on the user's needs and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Purple Star switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're aiming for. If you prefer a balanced yet slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is an excellent choice, especially for those who enjoy a more robust typing experience without being overly heavy. Its middle-ground position in the HMX Film lineup offers a pleasing sound profile that complements moderate typing styles, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Purple Star switches would be ideal, particularly if you're a light typist or someone who spends long hours typing. Their buttery smooth action and low-pitched sound provide a gentle yet satisfying experience, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for prolonged comfort during extensive usage. Ultimately, your selection should align with whether you prioritize a firmer, more balanced response or a softer, more effortless typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Purple Star Linear

$4.88 per 10

Learn more