HMX FJ400 vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX FJ400 and Dareu Violet Gold Pro each present unique advantages tailored to different preferences. The FJ400 is a linear switch that strikes a harmonious balance within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a smooth keystroke with a balanced sound profile. This makes the FJ400 an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who prioritize fast, uninterrupted key presses without the tactile feedback of a bump. Conversely, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches are tactile, offering a medium level of tactility and a fairly light touch with a neutral sound signature. This positions them as an ideal "Goldilocks" option for users seeking a balanced and satisfying typing experience that offers reassurance with each keystroke without being overly pronounced. Both switches cater to different stylistic preferences and uses, making your choice a matter of personal taste and typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The FJ400 features a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound that is particularly pleasing and unique. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the acoustic properties by delivering a clearer and more resonant tone, but it also makes the housing aesthetically conducive to RGB lighting, allowing for a more visually appealing setup. Thus, while the FJ400 aims for a warmer and rounder auditory experience, the Violet Gold Pro's design focuses on clarity and bright sound.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a classic switch housing material, nylon’s softer plastic construction effectively absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder quality. This shared choice of material indicates that both keyboards will provide rich and immersive sound experiences when bottomed out. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing feel by impacting the sound and feedback upon key press, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying tactile experience, regardless of whether they opt for the deep resonance of the FJ400 or the clarity of the Violet Gold Pro.
In summary, while the top housings of the HMX FJ400 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro differ significantly in material and sound character, the commonality in their nylon bottom housings ensures that both products deliver a fuller auditory texture. The contrasting profiles created by the POM and polycarbonate top housings will influence the sound produced during key release, leveraging each material's distinct qualities. Therefore, users can expect unique auditory experiences tailored to their preferences, along with a robust, consistent foundation provided by the nylon component in the bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, which may influence user experience based on individual preferences. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Violet Gold Pro the lighter option, potentially appealing to users who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the FJ400 has a measurable bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial feel as the key reaches the end of its travel. Conversely, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force is not specified, leaving users in the dark about how it feels when bottoming out. As a result, while the FJ400 offers a defined weight for both actuation and bottom out, the Violet Gold Pro’s unknown bottom out force creates ambiguity regarding its overall feel upon key presses. Consequently, those who prefer a heavier typing experience may gravitate towards the FJ400, while lighter switches may suit those who enjoy a softer touch, though the lack of bottom out force information on the Violet Gold Pro adds an element of uncertainty.
Travel distance
Both the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, indicating that they provide a similar feel when pressed. Since the travel distance is equal for both switches, users can expect comparable performance in terms of how far down the keys travel before registering a press. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches will deliver a consistent typing experience, making it easier for users to adapt between them without significant differences in key 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Its moderate sound level strikes a good compromise, ensuring that it won’t be too loud to disrupt others but still provides audible feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch features a neutral sound signature, which is similarly moderate in volume. This flexibility contributes to its versatility for both beginners and experienced typists alike, allowing for an unobtrusive typing experience without excessive noise. Overall, both switches create a sound environment that is appropriate for diverse usage scenarios, and while the FJ400 leans slightly towards the linear sound characteristics, the Violet Gold Pro’s neutrality also caters well to users who appreciate a non-intrusive audio experience.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 has not been defined in the provided information, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. However, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is characterized by its medium tactility and stepped design. This means that users will experience a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which is milder compared to hypertactile switches. It allows for some pre-travel and post-travel feedback, contributing to a satisfying typing experience without being overly aggressive. The stepped tactile feel is particularly favorable for those who enjoy a blend of feedback without the harsher tactile response found in some other switches. The distinction in feel could cater to different typing preferences, depending on whether one favors the smoothness of a linear switch or the mild tactile response offered by the Violet Gold Pro.
In summary, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both provide a balanced and moderate sound profile suitable for various environments, their tactile experiences differ, with the latter offering a stepped tactile response that is more suited for those who appreciate a bit of feedback while typing. Ultimately, your choice may boil down to whether you prefer a linear feel that is more fluid or a gentle tactile sensation that the Violet Gold Pro provides. Both options have their merits, allowing users to achieve a satisfying typing experience based on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, the FJ400 is a solid option with its medium bottom-out force, providing a balanced sound profile suitable for both casual typing and gaming. The linear nature of the FJ400 makes it an excellent choice for those who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards tactile feedback in your typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro would likely be the better fit. Its stepped design allows for a mild tactile sensation without being overly pronounced, making it a versatile switch for a variety of tasks such as typing and office work, without causing fatigue over extended periods. The neutral sound signature of the Violet Gold Pro further enhances its adaptability, making it an ideal choice for any setting, whether at home or in a professional environment. Ultimately, your decision boils down to whether you prefer a smooth and linear feel or a balanced tactile experience with gentle feedback.
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