HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CJ are two popular options to consider. The Blue Topaz is favored for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering users a breezy typing experience with a distinctive glittery housing that adds both visual and auditory delight with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ stands out with its unique higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, categorized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky. While both switches have their strengths, such as being easy-to-press and clacky for the Blue Topaz, and exhibiting a unique presentation of a linear switch for the CJ, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific qualities to determine the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron CJ switches bring unique characteristics to their sound profiles. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. This is contrasted with the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound described as clacky. While both offer distinct sound profiles, the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the CJ's INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Blue Topaz utilizes nylon to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being softer and absorbing more sound than harder plastics, results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ employs POM for its bottom housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. The differences between the nylon and POM bottom housings offer users alternative experiences in sound and feel when using the switches.
While the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron CJ switches offer distinct qualities to their sound profiles, the impact of each housing material can be felt differently when using the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the CJ's heavier 50 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Blue Topaz is lighter at 48 grams, while the CJ's bottom out force is heavier at 60 grams. These differences in force can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Blue Topaz for a smoother typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the CJ's heavier forces may provide a more satisfying and substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gateron CJ switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz switch. While the 0.1 mm difference may not seem significant, it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Blue Topaz switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Gateron CJ switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky and satisfying typing experience with its sharp and snappy sound, which adds a level of excitement to every key press. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a unique chirpy sound profile that is enjoyable and stands out from other linear switches, making typing on it a distinct auditory experience. While the Blue Topaz is more on the crisp and bright side, the CJ offers a higher-pitched clack that adds a fun twist to typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch boasts an easy-to-press quality, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron CJ switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, striking a safe middle ground in terms of feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, but the Blue Topaz leans towards being easier to press, while the CJ offers a more neutral and balanced experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a clacky sound and easy actuation, the HMX Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a chirpy sound and a mild typing feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great option to consider. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so you can expect similar levels of satisfaction regardless of your choice between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother actuation with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a unique, higher-pitched clack sound with a mild typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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