HMX FJ400 vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and TTC Silent Brown present two distinct yet compelling options catering to different user preferences. The FJ400, classified as a linear switch, strikes a balance in the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a smooth keystroke and a balanced sound profile that appeals to gamers and typists alike who prefer a fluid typing experience without any interruptions. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a light to medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump that provides feedback on each keystroke. Its muted sound profile ensures a quiet typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, whether you favor the effortless glide of the FJ400 or the tactile satisfaction of the Silent Brown, both switches offer unique benefits tailored to specific typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the TTC Silent Brown utilize distinct materials for their top housings, with the FJ400 featuring a POM top and the Silent Brown incorporating polycarbonate. The POM (polyoxymethylene) material used in the FJ400 contributes to a sound profile that is described as deeper and more muted, offering a unique auditory experience that many users find appealing. In contrast, the polycarbonate in the Silent Brown allows for a sharper and crisper sound output. This difference in material rigidity plays a significant role in the sound characteristics each switch produces; while the FJ400's POM top housing provides a softer auditory tone, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top pushes towards a higher-pitched sound that resonates more prominently, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.

Turning to the bottom housings, both the FJ400 and Silent Brown feature nylon, a classic material favored for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This shared characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is consistent across both switches when typing. The nylon construction is integral to the switches' performances, as it predominantly impacts the bottom-out sound and the overall feel during keystrokes. While the top housing materials differentiate their sound, the similarity of nylon in the bottom housing means that users will experience a comparable depth in their typing experience, regardless of which switch they choose.

When pressing down a key, the interplay between the top and bottom housings becomes crucial in shaping the overall auditory and tactile experience. Although the FJ400 and Silent Brown have differing top housing materials, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing suggests that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing feel and a rounded sound experience upon bottoming out. The contrasting nature of their top housings means that while the bottom-out sound will be similar due to the nylon, the release sound and subsequent auditory feedback will diverge, offering users distinct experiences tailored to their sound preferences. Thus, despite their differences, the FJ400 and TTC Silent Brown provide avenues for achieving unique auditory results while sharing that sense of depth imparted by the nylon bottom.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 requires an actuation force of 50 grams to register a keystroke, while the Silent Brown is slightly lighter at 45 grams for actuation. This difference suggests that the TTC Silent Brown may offer a more effortless typing experience, making it suitable for those who type for extended periods. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the FJ400 has a force of 58 grams compared to the Silent Brown's heavier 63.5 grams. This indicates that while the Silent Brown might be easier to actuate, it requires more force to press all the way down. Overall, the FJ400 is the heavier option in terms of bottom out force, making it potentially preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing.

Travel distance

Both the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key, you will experience an identical distance in action for both switches. This uniform travel distance allows for a similar tactile experience, making them comparable in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Consequently, whether you choose the FJ400 or the Silent Brown, you can expect consistent results when pressing keys across both switch types, with neither one proving to be shorter or longer than the other.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is best characterized by its balanced sound profile, striking a midpoint that caters to a variety of preferences without veering too loud or too quiet. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch features a notably muted sound, producing a softer auditory experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This quieter operation is particularly appealing for those who seek to maintain a more discreet typing environment. However, it's worth noting that the overall sound will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other factors, which can modify how these switches sound in practice.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 offers a particularly smooth and consistent keystroke, embodying the essential traits of a linear switch. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the FJ400’s tactile qualities aren’t available. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown provides a buttery and polished typing experience, complemented by a light to medium resistance. This balance creates a gentle yet satisfying tactile bump that combines smoothness and control, making it approachable for most users while emphasizing a refined feel that reduces any potential friction during typing.

In synthesis, the HMX FJ400 linear switch presents a balanced sound profile and a smooth keystroke, catering well to those who appreciate linear qualities. The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, with its muted sound and polished feel, offers a different experience that combines tactile feedback with a focus on quietness. While both switches provide unique benefits, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on whether you favor a more auditory experience or a tactile one, with each switch presenting attributes that can lead to satisfying results in their respective categories.

Conclusion

To summarize, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you favor a balanced sound profile, a slightly lighter keystroke, and the smoothness of linear switches for gaming or fast-paced typing, the FJ400 is your best bet. It's an excellent middle ground that provides a satisfying experience without being overly loud or heavy, making it suitable for both casual users and gamers who appreciate seamless key presses. On the other hand, if you desire a tactile feel that enhances your typing experience with a noticeable bump while still keeping noise levels low, the Silent Brown is the way to go. With its buttery, polished action and a medium-heavy resistance, it specifically caters to users who appreciate the feedback of tactile switches without the clackiness. Ultimately, consider your primary use case—whether you lean more towards gaming, typing, or a mix of both—and the acoustics of your environment to guide you in selecting the switch that will enhance your typing journey.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more