HMX FJ400 vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Yellow Silver offer appealing options for enthusiasts and casual users alike, especially for those who prefer linear switches. The HMX FJ400 serves as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, boasting a balanced sound profile that strikes a harmonious chord between auditory feedback and tactile response; it's a solid choice for those who appreciate a well-rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is designed for maximum speed and responsiveness, featuring a light actuation force that caters to both gamers and typists seeking efficiency with a neutral sound profile. While both switches excel in different areas—be it the FJ400's balanced auditory experience or the Yellow Silver's quick and responsive feel—it's essential to consider individual preferences and usage scenarios. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Yellow Silver, we see distinct differences in the top housings that influence their respective sound profiles. The FJ400 utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing an incredibly pleasing, deeper, and more muted sound. This material inherently dampens higher frequencies, leading to a sound that is warm and smooth. In contrast, the Yellow Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for its rigidity and clarity, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only impacts sound but also enhances aesthetic appeal, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting, whereas the POM material does not offer the same visual effects.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which helps create a fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon is traditionally celebrated for its softer texture, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, resulting in a rounded and mellower typing experience. The similarities in the nylon bottom housing mean that both switches will exhibit a richer sound when bottomed out, maintaining a degree of consistency in auditory feedback despite the differences found in their top housings. This shared material allows for a more cohesive experience overall, as the deep sound qualities are preserved in both models.
Overall, the interplay between these different top and bottom housing materials illustrates how the FJ400 and Yellow Silver can produce unique auditory characteristics while sharing certain key elements. The contrasting sound profiles from the POM and polycarbonate top housings highlight how much the top material influences the sound upon release. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a satisfying depth and resonance when keys are pressed down. As a result, despite the differences in sound when releasing the keys, users can still expect an enjoyable typing experience across both models due to the common characteristics of the nylon material—demonstrating how distinct housing materials can evoke a range of sounds and feelings within the same typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX FJ400 linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The FJ400 boasts an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Yellow Silver features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This distinction means that typists who prefer a lighter switch for extended use may lean towards the Yellow Silver, while those who appreciate a firmer feel might find the FJ400 more suitable. Ultimately, the FJ400 is the heavier switch in comparison to the Yellow Silver, making it ideal for users who prefer a stronger push sensation when typing or gaming. All in all, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide users with diverse options based on their personal preferences for weight and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX FJ400 and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches, the HMX FJ400 features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the FJ400 is the shorter option, appealing to users who favor a more responsive feel, which can be particularly advantageous for gaming. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for those who prefer deeper key presses, making it feel less abrupt. Consequently, users looking for faster response times would benefit from the HMX FJ400, whereas those who enjoy a more traditional typing depth might lean towards the Outemu Yellow Silver, given its longer travel distance.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 HMX FJ400 linear switch features a balanced sound profile that positions it comfortably for a variety of uses, allowing it to serve well whether you’re typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, which contributes to its versatility for both casual typists and gamers seeking speed and responsiveness. While both switches strive for a sound that doesn't overpower your surroundings, the nuanced balance of the FJ400 may appeal to those who appreciate a more defined acoustic experience, while the Yellow Silver offers an unobtrusive sound that caters to environments requiring less auditory distraction.
When it comes to feel, the FJ400 is aimed at providing a smooth keystroke, which can lead to a comfortable typing experience over extended periods. The Yellow Silver switch, on the other hand, features a light actuation force designed to promote quick and effortless key presses, making it particularly responsive and desirable for fast-paced gaming situations. Both switches provide a satisfying linear experience, but the FJ400 might be favored by users who enjoy a little more gravitas in their key presses, while the Yellow Silver will likely attract those who prioritize quick actuation above all else.
In summary, both the HMX FJ400 and Outemu Yellow Silver switches present attractive options for linear switch enthusiasts, each with unique sound and feel characteristics. The FJ400 offers a balanced sound with a smooth tactile experience, making it suitable for a broader range of activities, while the Yellow Silver excels in environments focused on fast performance and a neutral auditory presence. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in the choice between these two switches, but both will deliver a satisfying linear experience that aligns with their designed intents.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX FJ400 linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 may be your ideal match, especially if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Outemu Yellow Silver, with its slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, could be better suited for you. This switch is particularly favorable for fast-paced gaming or typing sessions where immediate response times are crucial. Furthermore, the neutral sound profile of the Yellow Silver makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether in an office or at home. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the sound levels you are comfortable with to determine which switch will enhance your keyboard experience the most.
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