HMX FJ400 vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Venus both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The FJ400 stands out in the HMX Film switch lineup as a well-balanced option, providing a middle ground that ensures a consistent and pleasant sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a harmonious typing experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the TTC Venus boasts an innovative internal design that promises a smooth, frictionless glide, enhanced by its springy "Q-texture," which some users liken to the delightful sensation of biting into chewy mochi. This switch enables rapid actuation and offers a muted sound signature, making it a perfect fit for users seeking a quiet yet enjoyable typing experience. Both switches have their merits, depending on whether you prioritize sound balance or a soft, resilient feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and TTC Venus exhibit similarities and differences in their housing materials that directly influence their auditory profiles and tactile experiences. Both switches utilize POM for their top housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique sound characteristic. This shared material results in a sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is generally more muted. The consistency in the top housing material between these two switches suggests that users can expect a comparable auditory experience when pressing keys, as both designs are optimized to deliver a smooth and resonant top-out sound due to their shared POM construction.
However, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the FJ400 and the Venus, leading to distinct sound profiles. The FJ400 employs nylon for its lower housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a dull and rounded acoustic experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus integrates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, more high-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant audio output. This difference in bottom housing materials means that while the FJ400 offers a warm and subdued typing experience, the Venus yields a more pronounced auditory signature.
Ultimately, the combination of these different materials results in a distinct typing experience for each switch. The FJ400’s nylon bottom housing provides a rich, deep sound influenced by its sound-absorbing qualities, while the polycarbonate housing of the Venus allows for brighter and crisper keystrokes. Users choosing between these switches will be considering not just the top-out sound, which remains consistent due to the POM material, but also the bottom-out feel and acoustic characteristics influenced by their respective bottom housings. This interplay between the top and bottom housing materials emphasizes the nuanced crafting of mechanical switches and illustrates how material choice can significantly alter user experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct differences in typing experience. The FJ400 requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Venus's lighter 45 grams, making the Venus more suitable for users who prefer a less forceful push and potentially longer typing sessions without fatigue. Moreover, the bottom out force of the FJ400 is 58 grams, heavier than the Venus’s 52 grams, further contributing to the FJ400's more substantial typing feel. Consequently, while both switches are classified as medium and medium-light respectively, the FJ400 presents a heftier option ideal for those who favor a stronger feedback from their keys. In summary, the Venus is the lighter switch, appealing to those seeking comfort during extended use, whereas the FJ400 offers a more robust experience for users who prefer a stronger actuation feel.
Travel distance
Both the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Venus linear switches feature the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This identical measurement means that users can expect a similar experience in keypress feel and depth when using either switch. With both switches requiring the same amount of travel from top to bottom, they offer comparable performance in terms of tactile feedback and actuation, making them equally suited for those who prefer a consistent keystroke feel.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 that falls comfortably within the middle ground of the HMX Film switch lineup, engaging users without overwhelming them. This makes it well-suited for a variety of environments, as it is not overly intrusive or quiet, providing a consistent auditory feedback that is often appreciated by both casual typists and gamers. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch features a low-pitched, muted sound that produces a more subdued typing experience. The Venus is designed to minimize noise, making it particularly advantageous in shared workspaces or quiet environments. While both switches aim for a pleasant sound, the FJ400’s balanced sound offers a more neutral experience, whereas the Venus leans heavily into a softer, dampened quality which might appeal to those who prefer a quieter operation.
When it comes to feel, the HMX FJ400 offers an undisclosed tactile experience, so its specific characteristics remain unknown. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is known for its buttery, frictionless keystrokes that provide a seamless typing action. The Venus also incorporates a gummy sensation at the bottoming out, reminiscent of the soft landing one might feel with a trampoline or gummy candy. This unique combination allows for an enjoyable and smooth typing experience that is easy on the fingers, promoting extended use without fatigue. If the FJ400 delivers on its promise of having an engaging feel, users might find satisfaction in both switches, but the exact nature of its feel remains a mystery.
In conclusion, while the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile that suits a wide range of typing preferences, the TTC Venus presents a distinctly muted sound with a focus on quiet operation. The Venus's feel is characterized by its smoothness and gummy bottoming out, providing a unique typing experience, while the feel of the FJ400 is not detailed. Those seeking a balanced auditory experience may enjoy the FJ400, while those who prefer a more contained sound may gravitate towards the Venus. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate the best choice, but both switches promise satisfying results for different aspects of the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX FJ400 and the TTC Venus linear switches, the key factors to consider are your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a balanced middle ground, the FJ400, with its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, is an excellent choice. It offers a sound profile that strikes a balance between satisfying thocky tones and moderate noise levels, making it suitable for both office and home use. Its feel is likely to appeal to those who value a nice tactile feedback without being overly aggressive. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter actuation and a particularly smooth typing experience, the TTC Venus is your go-to option. With a bottom-out force of just 52 grams, it’s designed for rapid and effortless typing. The Venus is characterized by a muted sound signature and an internal design that provides a frictionless glide resembling the soft texture of mochi—ideal for those who appreciate a quieter typing environment or plan to use their keyboard for extended periods. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you value more resistance and a pronounced sound with the FJ400, or a lighter, smoother sensation with the Venus.
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