HMX FJ400 vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and the Jwick Splash Brothers stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to distinct preferences and typing styles. The FJ400 is celebrated as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, delivering a balanced sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy a harmonious mix of auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes. It's a great choice for users who appreciate a more subdued typing experience without compromising on performance. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers, inspired by the dynamic duo of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, offers a unique typing experience with its shorter activation distance and long pole stem, resulting in a delightful and speedy feel. Additionally, the creamy sound signature adds an inviting acoustic element that users may find exhilarating. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the FJ400 excels in balance and overall sound, while the Splash Brothers emphasize swift responsiveness and a satisfying auditory quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Jwick Splash Brothers showcase distinct housing materials that affect their acoustic profiles and aesthetic qualities. The FJ400 features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This quality lends itself to a unique auditory experience that many users find appealing for its warm tonal characteristics. In contrast, the Splash Brothers utilize a polycarbonate top housing that creates a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate plays a crucial role in enabling a clearer and more resonant output, appealing to those who prefer a pronounced audio feedback while typuing. Additionally, since polycarbonate is often used in clear housings, it offers an advantage with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetic of the keyboard.
Regarding the bottom housing, both the FJ400 and the Splash Brothers employ nylon, which is a classic choice in switch construction. This material contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic properties. Consequently, while the sound and feel of the FJ400 are shaped by the combination of the deeper tones from the nylon bottom and the more muted projection from the POM top, the Splash Brothers balance their high-pitched clarity from the polycarbonate top with the same deep and rich qualities provided by its nylon bottom. In this way, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches are able to utilize nylon to achieve a rounded bottom-out sound, resulting in a similar auditory experience at that key press point.
Ultimately, the relationship between the top and bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall performance of these switches. While the FJ400 delivers a unique and muted sound profile with its POM top housing, complemented by the fullness of the nylon bottom, the Splash Brothers' combination of a high-pitched polycarbonate top and a soft nylon bottom results in a divergent but equally fulfilling auditory experience. Thus, despite the variance in their top housing materials, users may find comparable outcomes in terms of sound quality, particularly at the bottom-out phase of key presses, showcasing the nuanced interplay of materials in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams, which places it in the medium range, while the Splash Brothers does not have a specified actuation force, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, the Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is lighter than the FJ400's bottom out force of 58 grams. This indicates that the FJ400 provides a more substantial tactile feedback with a heavier feel, catering to those who prefer a stronger push. In contrast, the Splash Brothers, being lighter at the bottom out stage, may be better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming, as the reduced resistance can lessen fatigue. Thus, while both switches offer different experiences, the FJ400 is the heavier option overall, and the Splash Brothers is lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX FJ400 linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there is a notable difference: the FJ400 has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Splash Brothers measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Splash Brothers the shorter of the two, offering a quicker feedback mechanism, which appeals to gamers seeking rapid response times. On the other hand, the FJ400 provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a deeper keypress. Therefore, if you're inclined toward a more responsive feel, the Splash Brothers would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke might favor the FJ400.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 by a balanced tone, making it an excellent choice for users who desire a neutral auditory experience while typing. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch delivers a creamy sound signature that is pleasant and smooth. Despite the differences, both switches cater to a broad range of users, suitable for various environments such as home or office settings. It's important to note that the ultimate sound experience can still be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the FJ400 serves as a solid middle ground, likely offering a pleasant typing experience due to its balanced characteristics. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers linear switch embodies a multitude of feel descriptors, incorporating mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished qualities. This diverse tactile experience means that the Splash Brothers can provide a lively and responsive typing feel, making it an engaging choice for users who enjoy dynamic feedback. While the FJ400's feel may be more straightforward, the Splash Brothers are designed to create a richer tactile involvement.
In conclusion, while the FJ400 linear switch delivers a balanced sound and feel that's suitable for various users, the Jwick Splash Brothers elevate the typing experience with a creamy sound signature and a diverse array of tactile sensations. If you're looking for an engaging experience with responsive feedback and pleasant acoustics, the Splash Brothers might be the better choice, while the FJ400 serves as a reliable option for those who prefer a simpler and more neutral typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, and the decision will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force that provides a balanced sound profile and a typing experience that is not too overwhelming or too soft, the FJ400 is an excellent choice. It caters well to users who prefer a solid feel without excessive noise, making it suitable for both work and general use. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter activation force paired with a snappy and bouncy sensation while typing, the Splash Brothers switch would be ideal. Its creamy sound signature and responsive feel are designed for those who want a more dynamic typing experience—particularly beneficial for gamers or those who type rapidly. Both switches have their unique charms: choose the FJ400 for a reliable, moderate feel and sound or opt for the Splash Brothers if you want to enjoy a lively, energetic typing journey. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style, environment, and personal comfort.
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