HMX FJ400 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to the tactile experience and sound profile that best suits your typing style. The HMX FJ400, a favorite among enthusiasts, stands out for its balanced sound profile, making it a versatile option for both gaming and typing tasks. This linear switch provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, allowing for rapid key presses and reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue also offers a linear experience but is celebrated for its distinctive deep and thocky sound profile that enhances the overall typing ambiance. Featuring a lengthened single-stage spring, the Tourmaline Blues deliver a bouncy feel with each keystroke, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing experience. With its mild and approachable characteristics, the Tourmaline Blue switch is accessible to a diverse range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue depends on individual preferences regarding sound and feedback in typing. 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 Tourmaline Blue Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue both showcase distinct materials that greatly influence their auditory characteristics and aesthetic appeal. The top housing of the FJ400 is made from POM (Polyoxymethylene), known for its ability to generate a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrasts sharply with the Everglide Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. The translucency of the polycarbonate housing also enhances its visual appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While the FJ400's POM housing fosters a more subdued auditory experience, the Everglide's polycarbonate option offers clarity and resonance, making them fundamentally different in how they perform and present themselves.

On the other hand, the bottom housing materials further contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch. The FJ400 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for delivering a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon’s relatively softer characteristics absorb sound more effectively, producing a sound that is rounded and less pronounced. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue adopts a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, mirroring the stiffer properties of its top counterpart. This choice provides a sharper and clearer bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall crispness. While both switches use polycarbonate for the Tourmaline Blue and nylon for the FJ400, the differences in material properties between the bottom housings create unique auditory signatures that can be distinctly appreciated.

Ultimately, despite the differences in the materials used for their respective housings, both the HMX FJ400 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue can achieve complementary auditory results based on their designs. The FJ400's combination of POM and nylon creates a balance of muted sounds with depth, while the Tourmaline Blue, utilizing polycarbonate throughout, emphasizes clarity and sharpness. However, the holistic experience in each switch can still be aligned towards a fuller auditory appreciation; for example, if a user leans toward softer sounds, they may find the FJ400's properties pleasing, while those who prefer a bright and resonant typing experience may be more inclined to the Everglide options. Thus, the diverse materials lead to different yet equally enjoyable sound experiences, catering to varied preferences among users.

Weight

When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces that may influence user preference. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 58 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue requires a higher actuation force of 59 grams and has a bottom-out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This distinction means that typists or gamers who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions might find the FJ400 more comfortable, while those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Tourmaline Blue. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel, but users can expect a distinctly lighter action with the FJ400 compared to the heftier resistance of the Everglide switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, the differences are quite clear. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the shorter option between the two. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper keystroke. For those who favor quick responsiveness, the FJ400 may be more appealing due to its shorter travel, while the Tourmaline Blue might cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the travel distance and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch presents a balanced sound profile, making it versatile for a range of environments and use cases. This neutrality allows it to perform well whether in a quiet office or during leisure typing at home. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue excels with its deep and thocky sound, which creates a more immersive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its distinctive auditory quality may seem more pronounced, giving the user a robust feedback that can be satisfying, especially for those who enjoy a richer sound while typing. Both switches offer a pleasant experience, but if you prefer a more pronounced audio feedback, the Tourmaline Blue will resonate more deeply with you.

When examining the feel of these switches, the FJ400 provides a smooth actuation, offering a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. Although specific attributes for the FJ400 weren’t detailed, it is known to serve as a balanced choice within its lineup. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is characterized by its buttery smooth keystrokes, easy-to-press capability, and a mild actuation force. This combination ensures a fluid and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. Users can expect an effortless keystroke that’s responsive yet gentle, making it accessible for both novice and experienced typists alike.

Overall, while both the HMX FJ400 and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches share some qualities that cater to a wide range of users, they deliver different experiences to the typist. The FJ400 offers a balanced sound suitable for various environments and maintains a smooth feel ideal for general use. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue delivers a deeper, more satisfying sound, accompanied by a buttery and responsive feel that appeals to those seeking a more tactile experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a great typing experience, but the distinct qualities suggest that the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are seeking a balanced and versatile typing experience, the HMX FJ400 is an excellent option, especially for those who want a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, whether you’re at home or in a more professional setting. On the other hand, if you crave a richer auditory experience and a bouncier feel while typing, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue could be more appealing. With its deeper thocky sound and a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 67 grams, this switch is designed for those who enjoy a bit of character in each keystroke. Its buttery smooth actuation and easy-to-press feel can transform lengthy typing sessions into a delightful experience. Thus, if you prioritize comfort and sound character, the Tourmaline Blue may be the way to go. In the end, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and where you will be using your keyboard to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more