HMX FJ400 vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, two notable contenders being the HMX FJ400 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The HMX FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, positioning itself as a versatile choice for users seeking a harmonious typing experience without excessive noise. It offers a middle ground among HMX Film switches, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch impresses with its combination of classic materials and innovative design, featuring a 22mm double-stage spring that delivers a delightful typing experience characterized by a satisfying bounce. Its lightweight construction ensures effortless keystrokes, while the creamy and polished feel adds a layer of appeal for tactile feedback aficionados. Ultimately, while both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, their unique attributes cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is more muted and rounded. In both switches, this characteristic translates into a typing experience that minimizes sharp acoustics and delivers a more engaging auditory feedback with each keystroke. However, while both models feature nylon for the bottom housing, the FJ400 takes a different approach with its top housing, employing POM (polyoxymethylene), which creates a unique sound profile that is distinctly deeper and somewhat muted.
In contrast, the WS Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, further reinforcing the deeper sound profile achieved through consistent material usage. The absence of a POM top housing means that the WS Yellow does not benefit from the specific sound signature that POM can provide, which could lead to a more uniform sound experience. Although both switches aim for a fuller sound profile, the FJ400's top housing made of POM provides a distinct aural quality that could enhance the overall typing experience by introducing a different acoustic signature upon key release compared to the tight-knit sound produced by the all-nylon construction of the WS Yellow.
Ultimately, if users prefer the typing results between the two models, they will find that both deliver a rich and full sound due to the nylon bottom housing's inherent properties. For those seeking to replicate the FJ400 experience while using the WS Yellow, the key will be in how the combined effects of both top and bottom housings harmonize during typing. The distinct impact of the POM top housing in the FJ400 will somewhat differ from the all-nylon setup of the WS Yellow; however, they will still achieve a similarly enjoyable sound through their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing, offering a muted auditory experience that can resonate positively with typists seeking depth and warmth in their keyboard feedback.
Weight
The HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range for both metrics. In contrast, the WS Yellow lacks a specified actuation force, with a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that users of the WS Yellow might experience a slightly softer engagement when typing, while the FJ400 demands a bit more push, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel. Therefore, the FJ400 is the heavier switch, which could be beneficial for users who prefer a stronger push during typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the WS Yellow's lighter feel may be advantageous for those seeking comfort during extended use. Despite the difference in actuation force clarity, both switches will provide relatively similar bottom out experiences, with the WS Yellow feeling slightly more forgiving due to its lower overall force.
Travel distance
Both the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of each switch. This uniformity in travel distance indicates that both switches will provide a comparable level of responsiveness and key feel during use. As a result, whether you choose the FJ400 or the WS Yellow, you'll achieve a similar performance in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when engaged.
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 Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile that doesn't draw too much attention while typing, making it suitable for both quiet environments and louder settings. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch presents a sound signature that has become beloved among enthusiasts for its familiar qualities, likely due to the combination of classic materials and innovative engineering. Both switches can yield a similar auditory experience, but factors such as the choice of mechanical keyboard frame and keycaps will ultimately play significant roles in how sound is perceived.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is noted for its distinct typing experience, which is well-received by users who appreciate a smooth transition between keystrokes. The WS Yellow linear switch, however, elevates the typing experience with its creamy and polished attributes. The creamy feel provides a buttery touch, allowing for effortless gliding across keys, while the polished finish reduces friction, making each keystroke feel refined and luxurious. While both switches may deliver a satisfying experience, the WS Yellow seems to take it a notch higher with its specialized design aimed at enhancing the tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX FJ400 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches present appealing qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The FJ400 offers a balanced sound and a smooth feel, making it a reliable option for various typing scenarios, while the WS Yellow enhances the experience even further with its creamy, polished characteristics and a well-appreciated sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can find satisfaction in either option, though the WS Yellow may cater more to those seeking a lush typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the HMX FJ400 linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in terms of feel and sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a more substantial typing experience, the FJ400, with its 58-gram bottom-out force, strikes a harmonious balance, making it a great choice for users who appreciate a pronounced tactile feedback without being overly heavy. The balanced sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to your typing, making it suitable for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch, the WS Yellow is an excellent option with its 53-gram bottom-out force and delightful creamy feel. The WS Yellow's smoother and polished keystrokes, combined with its lightweight design and satisfying bounce thanks to the double-stage spring, create an effortless typing experience that is perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more dynamic typing experience with a touch of weight, go for the FJ400; but if you seek smooth and fluid keystrokes for quick and comfortable typing, the WS Yellow will not disappoint. Choose based on what feels right for you!
Mentioned in this article
