HMX FJ400 vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow are two intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The FJ400 stands out within the HMX Film lineup, offering a balanced sound profile that appeals to users who prefer a neutral yet satisfying typing experience without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow dials up the auditory enjoyment with its unique, bassy sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles, making every keystroke a delight. These Creamsicle-colored switches boast a medium weight, catering to a diverse range of typists, while the innovative Ly stem and factory lubrication provide a remarkably smooth glide. While both switches deliver the linear feel that many typists enjoy, their individual characteristics make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow both utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for their top housings, which lends a distinct musicality to the sound profile produced by each switch. The POM top housing is known for creating a pleasing and unique auditory experience, characterized by a deeper and relatively muted tone. This similarity means that typists and gamers alike can expect a rich sound quality that enhances the overall typing experience, allowing users to enjoy the tactile feedback while benefiting from the consonance generated by the POM material. The consistency in the top housing material across both models assures users that they will enjoy comparable acoustic characteristics when depressing the keys.

However, a notable difference arises in the materials used for the bottom housing of each switch. The FJ400 employs nylon, a classic switch housing material that contributes to a fuller and more resonant sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound waves compared to harder plastics, thereby producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow utilizes POM for its bottom housing as well. While this would create a similarly muted, deep sound profile as the top housing, the switch’s overall acoustic performance differs from that of the FJ400 due to the nylon’s unique properties in the FJ400's bottom housing. Thus, the sound felt and heard when pressing the keys would be more pronounced and rounded on the FJ400 than on the Sunset Yellow.

Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches exhibit complementary audio characteristics due to their shared POM top housing. The FJ400's nylon bottom housing enhances overall resonance and warmth, while the Sunset Yellow’s POM bottom housing emphasizes clarity and consistency. This correspondence between the top and bottom materials indicates that while sound profiles might diverge in subtlety and depth, users familiar with the use of both switches would experience satisfying performances. Ultimately, the combination of materials used in each switch offers unique tactile and auditory feedback, catering to varying preferences among users, while still delivering enjoyable outcomes characteristic of POM housing technology.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, we can see significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, the Everglide Sunset Yellow would be the better choice due to its reduced actuation force, which can lead to less finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the FJ400, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, offers a more substantial typing feel, appealing to users who favor a stronger push for a more tactile experience. In summary, while both switches provide a quality typing experience, the Sunset Yellow is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the FJ400 appeals to those who appreciate a firmer actuation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sunset Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the FJ400 provides a deeper keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the shorter 3.2 mm travel distance of the Sunset Yellow caters to users seeking quicker responsiveness, aligning with the modern trend towards shorter actuation distances favored by gamers. If you're looking for a switch that offers a more immediate and less pronounced bottom-out feel, the Sunset Yellow would be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a heartier and deeper typing experience, the FJ400 would be preferable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference regarding depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile that sits comfortably in the middle range of the HMX Film switch lineup, though specific characteristics of its acoustics may not be detailed. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch is celebrated for its captivating audio experience, which is notably bassy and thocky. The deeper, richer tones of the Sunset Yellow mimic the pleasing resonance of mahjong tiles colliding, providing an indulgent auditory backdrop to each keystroke. While both switches will produce satisfying sounds, the Sunset Yellow's unique sound signature stands out for its depth and richness compared to the more mid-tier sound of the FJ400.

In terms of feel, the FJ400 switch does not have specified tactile qualities, leaving some uncertainty about its typing experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow excels in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation. Described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, these switches deliver a silky, effort-free experience that allows your fingers to glide seamlessly across the keys, enhancing the overall fluidity of each press. The combination of a unique Ly stem and factory lubrication further elevates the responsive nature of the Sunset Yellow, creating a stark contrast to the less defined tactile sensation of the FJ400.

In conclusion, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile and an unspecified feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch excels in both sound and feel, providing a rich audio experience alongside a creamy, frictionless typing sensation. Therefore, if you're seeking a tactile experience that is richly rewarding in both its auditory and tactile components, the Sunset Yellow is likely to provide a more engaging experience. However, both switches can still yield satisfying typing sessions, depending on your overall preferences and setup.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches ultimately depends on your preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a balanced key press that strikes a middle ground in terms of resistance, the FJ400's 58-gram bottom-out force will provide you with a satisfying, well-rounded feel and sound profile that suits various typing styles. This makes the FJ400 an excellent choice for those who enjoy a medium weight and seek a versatile switch that can handle both gaming and typing tasks efficiently. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more indulgent typing experience with a lighter touch, the Everglide Sunset Yellow’s 51-gram actuation force might be more suitable for you. These switches offer a captivating bassy sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles and a uniquely creamy feel, perfect for users who prioritize smoothness and responsiveness. If you enjoy a tactile and immersive auditory experience, choosing the Sunset Yellow will enhance your typing with its deep, thocky sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits and the sensory experiences you value most in your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more