HMX FJ400 vs. KTT Strawberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two popular linear options are the HMX FJ400 and the KTT Strawberry. The FJ400 stands out as a balanced middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, known for its harmonious sound profile and versatility that appeals to both gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry captivates users with its smooth actuation and comfortable feel, further accentuated by its attractive pink and clear housings, making it a favorite among those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. While both switches offer the smooth linear action that many users crave, they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX FJ400 Linear

KTT Strawberry Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.91 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the KTT Strawberry use distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the sound profiles they produce. The FJ400 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for creating a deeper, more muted sound. This is a result of POM's capability of producing a unique sound that leans towards the lower frequency spectrum, offering a softer auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry employs a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a crisper auditory experience that is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency, allowing light to shine through vividly.

When examining the bottom housings, the differences between the FJ400 and Strawberry remain pronounced. The FJ400 employs a nylon bottom housing, revered for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, contributing to a rounder sound experience that many users prefer for a tactile, damped feel. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, promotes a sharper and more pronounced sound. The stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate produce a clear and resonant bottom-out sound, maintaining consistency with the clarity established by the top housing.

The differing materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches illustrate how the interplay of their qualities results in unique auditory experiences. While the FJ400 aims for a full-bodied sound through its use of nylon and POM, the KTT Strawberry delivers a concerted high-frequency emphasis using polycarbonate in both housing components. This divergence not only affects sound but also offers users varied tactile experiences—where pressing down on the FJ400 yields a soft and muted action, the Strawberry offers a sharper response. Ultimately, while both switches utilize different materials, each can produce a satisfying sound profile, reflecting individual preferences in tactile feel and auditory characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, several distinctions emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making the Strawberry easier to press and more suitable for those who prefer a lightweight typing experience. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the FJ400 at 58 grams and the Strawberry at 62 grams, indicating that the Strawberry is slightly heavier when fully depressed. This means that while the actuation portion of the Strawberry is lighter, it requires more force to bottom out compared to the FJ400. For users who favor a softer touch during typing but still appreciate a substantial feeling when bottoming out, the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry paired with its heavier bottom out force may provide a balanced typing experience. Conversely, those who prefer a uniform medium feel may find the FJ400 more appealing overall due to its consistent actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is clear that the FJ400 has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Strawberry features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This 0.2 mm difference means that the Strawberry may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes. Conversely, the FJ400, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers and those seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, while both switches offer a unique typing experience, the choice between them will depend on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch is known for providing a balanced sound profile, which can imply a blend of tonal qualities, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a notably low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This deeper resonance may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience when typing. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so both switches can fit into a similar acoustic environment depending on the configuration chosen.

When it comes to feel, the FJ400 switch lacks a detailed description, leaving its tactile and pressure characteristics somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is celebrated for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished sensations. This means that the Strawberry switch delivers a remarkably smooth, effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance throughout the keystroke. Users can expect a fluid travel mechanism that enhances overall typing comfort and satisfaction. Thus, while the subjective feel of the FJ400 remains unclear, the Strawberry clearly excels in terms of user feedback on tactile responsiveness and smoothness.

In conclusion, if you’re in search of a well-rounded sound profile, the HMX FJ400 may be appealing, while the KTT Strawberry offers a distinct low-pitched sound alongside exceptional smoothness in actuation. The Strawberry's tactile experience is well-defined with multiple terms that exemplify its luxurious feel, whereas the FJ400's feel is less articulated and may require further exploration to ascertain its qualities fully. Ultimately, your choice may largely depend on how each switch aligns with your sound preferences and typing comfort, as both have attributes that can make for an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a balanced sound profile and a slightly lighter actuation force, the FJ400 would be an excellent fit, particularly for those who engage in long typing sessions and appreciate a moderate tactile feedback that minimizes fatigue. On the other hand, if you're seeking a plush, frictionless experience with a smooth actuation that feels almost effortless, the KTT Strawberry is your best bet. Its low-pitched sound adds a mellow tone to your typing, while its silky and buttery feel delivers an exceptional level of comfort, making it ideal for users focused on gaming or extensive typing alike. Consequently, consider your priorities—whether it’s the moderate resistance of the FJ400 or the ultra-smooth sensation of the Strawberry—as you make your final decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

Learn more