HMX FJ400 vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches for your typing or gaming setup, the HMX FJ400 and Gateron Type S stand out as excellent linear options, each bringing unique attributes to the table. The FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile within the HMX Film switch lineup, making it a versatile choice for users seeking a consistent and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, presents a weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel. Its sound signature is neutral and subdued, providing an acoustically pleasing experience that can enhance focus during lengthy sessions. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth actuation, they differ in tactile feedback and auditory profile, allowing users to choose based on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and Gateron Type S switches showcase distinct yet complementary housing materials that contribute to their performance and acoustic profiles. The FJ400 employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound characterized by a deeper and more muted profile. POM's inherently hard structure provides clarity while dampening higher frequencies, delivering a sound that appeals to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Type S features a nylon top housing that is a classic choice in the mechanical keyboard world. Nylon’s softer plastic composition enhances sound absorption, translating to a fuller, rounder, and warmer sound signature. While both materials achieve a deeper sound profile, the POM's hardness leans towards clarity, while the nylon emphasizes warmth.
Both the FJ400 and Type S utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a shared acoustic quality in this part of the switch. The use of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound because of its sound-absorbing characteristics, allowing these switches to maintain a muted yet rich auditory experience during typing. While the FJ400 delivers a unique sound through its combination of a POM top and nylon bottom, the Type S remains consistent with a purely nylon configuration for both housing parts. Consequently, any typing experience with either switch will feel much more similar when considering the bottom-out sound and feel, as both rely on the sound-damping qualities of nylon.
Ultimately, the differences between the FJ400 and Gateron Type S switches present an interesting study in how housing materials can influence user experience. The FJ400’s POM top and nylon bottom create a balance of characteristics, where the top contributes to a clearer, more defined release sound, while the nylon bottom maintains a consistent, warm profile upon bottoming out. Meanwhile, the Type S's reliance on nylon for both its top and bottom housing provides a consistent sound experience that emphasizes warmth and depth throughout. While users will yield somewhat different auditory experiences, both designs ensure a satisfying and nuanced sound profile, ultimately enriching the mechanical typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams, with a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Type S requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This variance means that the FJ400 is generally lighter, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a softer key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Type S, being heavier, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial push sensation during use. Thus, while both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the choice between them ultimately depends on the user’s preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, the FJ400 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Type S has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This 0.2 mm difference might seem minimal, but it can influence the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. For gamers or users who favor quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the FJ400 could provide a more reactive experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type S, with its traditional 4 mm distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial keypress that can feel less abrupt. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding response speed versus key travel depth.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 well-balanced, making it a versatile choice for various environments, whether in an office or gaming setup. The Gateron Type S switch features a neutral sound signature that is described as subdued; it produces a dampened sound that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience. This means that while both switches are designed to minimize noise, the Type S offers a more muted and refined auditory experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing an engaging sound.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 provides a smooth keypress that is characteristic of linear switches, though specific tactile feedback characteristics are not highlighted. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type S boasts a bottom-out force of 65g, which caters to users who appreciate a weightier keystroke. This added resistance can contribute to a more deliberate typing experience. Both switches promise a smooth actuation without the tactile bump or click typically found in other switch types, ensuring that users will enjoy a similarly smooth keystroke across both options.
In conclusion, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, the Gateron Type S switch provides a more subdued and deeper acoustic signature, which may appeal to a different preference in sound. On the feel side, the Gateron Type S’s heavier resistance sets it apart slightly from the FJ400, which lacks specific tactile descriptions. However, both switches engage users with their smooth actuation, making them suitable for various typing experiences. Overall, both switches are excellent choices, with personal preference likely determining which switch fits better into an individual’s setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your personal preferences for force, sound, and overall typing experience. The FJ400, with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, offers a balanced sound profile that is ideal for users who want a more versatile switch that can fit various typing scenarios, whether at home or in an office setting. If you value a more subdued audio experience without a loud click, this switch will serve you well. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke and a deeper sound signature, the Gateron Type S is the better option with its 65 grams of bottom-out force. This switch not only caters to those seeking a sturdy feeling with each keystroke but also provides a neutral yet pleasing acoustic experience, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. Consider where you'll be using your keyboard; if it’s mainly for gaming or casual typing, the FJ400 might be the more comfortable choice, while the Type S could enhance your typing experience if you enjoy a more substantial feedback and sound. Ultimately, your decision should reflect both the tactile and auditory sensations you seek while typing.
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