HMX FJ400 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX FJ400 and HMX Xinhai stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to different preferences. The FJ400 is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, providing a middle ground that is ideal for users seeking a dependable typing experience without excessive noise, making it a great choice for those who work in quieter environments or prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai boasts a unique combination of a PA12 top housing and a POM stem, delivering a softer acoustics profile alongside a distinctly crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This innovative design makes the Xinhai an appealing option for users who enjoy a lively typing experience with bouncy, clacky, and creamy feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and environment; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX FJ400 and HMX Xinhai utilize different materials for their top housings, with the FJ400 featuring a POM housing and the Xinhai employing a nylon counterpart. The POM construction of the FJ400 is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to its nylon counterpart. This distinct sound signature results from the harder nature of POM, which gives a firmer feel during typing while still allowing for a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the Xinhai's nylon top housing leans towards creating a rounder, duller sound, characteristic of its softer plastic material that tends to absorb sound more effectively. As a result, while both materials deliver pleasing auditory feedback, the style and depth of that feedback differ significantly.
On the bottom housing side, both the FJ400 and Xinhai switch models incorporate nylon, establishing a common ground for sound absorption and overall acoustic performance. The nylon used in both models is celebrated for contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity ensures that when pressing down on the switches, users experience consistent sound characteristics, offering a cohesive auditory experience between the two models. As nylon is less dense than POM, both switches will exhibit a softer bottom-out sound, enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions, which can be particularly beneficial for users who prioritize sound dampening in their keyboard setups.
Ultimately, despite the contrasting materials used for their top housings, both the HMX FJ400 and HMX Xinhai share a nylon bottom housing, which plays a crucial role in their overall sound character. The differences between the top housings result in varying experiences when pressing and releasing keys, where the POM top housing of the FJ400 adds a firmer, more pronounced feedback, while the nylon top of the Xinhai engenders a more muted experience. However, since both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a harmonious baseline of sound that enhances the full auditory profile, creating an enjoyable typing experience across both models despite their disparities in top materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The FJ400 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Xinhai is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This difference in weight signifies that the Xinhai switch offers a more effortless typing experience, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the FJ400, with its heavier forces, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel in their typing experience. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch, the Xinhai is the clear choice, whereas the FJ400 caters to those who appreciate a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, notable differences emerge. The FJ400 boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Xinhai offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the more suitable option for those who prioritize quicker response times, as shorter travel distances tend to enhance the speed of keystrokes — a feature favored particularly by gamers. Conversely, the FJ400, with its longer travel distance, caters to users who enjoy a more robust tactile feel, providing a greater sense of depth while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for keystroke responsiveness versus a fuller typing experience.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 is recognized for its balanced sound profile, offering a middle ground that caters to users seeking both a pleasant auditory experience and minimal distractions. While specific sound descriptors for the FJ400 are not provided, this balanced character suggests a more subdued and versatile output suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch stands out with a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. Its unique construction, featuring a PA12 top housing and POM stem, contributes to this crisp resonance, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback during typing.
When it comes to feel, the HMX FJ400's characteristics are not explicitly detailed, leading to an uncertainty in how it compares to other switches. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is lauded for its bouncy and creamy nature. The bouncy sensation adds a spring-like or elastic feedback, allowing for a lively typing experience with a gratifying rebound with each keystroke. Meanwhile, the creamy aspect enhances this experience even further, providing a smooth and buttery glide across the keys that can feel luxurious and effortless. This combination likely makes the Xinhai switch a favorite among those who prioritize tactile enjoyment in their typing experience.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, with the FJ400 seemingly offering a more restrained and balanced sound while the Xinhai provides an exciting and pronounced auditory feedback. Similarly, while the feel of the FJ400 is ambiguous, the Xinhai's bouncy and creamy texture offers a uniquely engaging typing experience. Thus, if you're looking for balanced sound and feel, both options may present satisfactory outcomes, but the Xinhai clearly leans toward a more dynamic and rich experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you prefer a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is an excellent choice, especially for general typing and gaming, where you might appreciate the tactile feedback without too much resistance. Its sound is more subdued compared to the more pronounced acoustics of the Xinhai, making it a good fit for quieter environments or extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams and enjoy a clacky, crisp sound, the Xinhai switch is likely more suited to your style. With its bouncy and creamy feel, it offers an engaging and dynamic typing experience that can enhance both casual usage and fast-paced gaming. In short, let your typing habits and sound preferences guide your choice between these two excellent linear switches for the most enjoyable keyboard experience.
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