Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Deep Navy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Deep Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Deep Navy represent two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches, each with its own unique appeal. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its quick response time and signature high-pitched clacks, offering typists a lively and engaging experience. Its unlubed nature allows for a uniquely raw smoothness or a customizable feel for those who prefer to personalize their switches. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy provides a rich, deep sound profile thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem, delivering a silky smooth keystroke that many find satisfying for both typing and gaming. While the Box CJ leans towards a more energetic typing experience, the Deep Navy emphasizes a luxurious and acoustically pleasing touch. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and HMX Deep Navy switches utilize distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This stiffer plastic allows for a more resonant and clear auditory experience, especially beneficial when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the light diffusion. In contrast, the Deep Navy employs a nylon top housing, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory profile. Thus, the choice of materials not only affects the sound characteristics but also the overall aesthetic when illuminated.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Box CJ and Deep Navy use nylon, which provides consistency in sound and tactility for users. The nylon bottom in both switches produces a deep and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs impact and reduces the sharpness often associated with harder plastics. This shared characteristic means that while the sound of the top housing differs, the experience when bottoming out each switch is more similar due to the nylon material used for both switches’ bottom housings. As a result, the tactile feedback remains consistent across both models, leading to a cohesive feel when typing.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Deep Navy switches illustrates a fascinating divergence and convergence in their sound profiles. While the Box CJ offers a brighter auditory experience through its polycarbonate top, the presence of nylon in both switches ensures a rounded sound when bottoming out. Consequently, users can expect a distinct separation in the top response while enjoying a unified sensation in bottoming out. This dynamic interplay highlights how variations in housing materials can yield different outcomes, ultimately catering to diverse preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Box CJ requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy offers an even lighter touch with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a light switch. This difference means that the Deep Navy is generally easier to press, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons as it reduces finger fatigue. Ultimately, while both switches present linear characteristics, the Box CJ offers a slightly heavier push feel, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Deep Navy caters to those desiring a softer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is aligned with the traditional standard and offers a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their keystrokes. This shorter distance allows for quicker actuation but may feel somewhat abrupt for users who prefer the depth provided by the Box CJ. Ultimately, those who enjoy a hearty depth in their typing experience would likely favor the Gateron Box CJ for its longer travel distance, while those seeking quicker response times might lean towards the HMX Deep Navy due to its shorter travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box 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 Box CJ for $5.35.
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 Gateron Box CJ switches provide an engaging auditory experience characterized by a higher-pitched clack that typists will appreciate. This sound is often described as sharp and snappy, lending itself well to an engaging typing rhythm. Additionally, the Box CJ switches possess a chirpy quality, which adds a unique acoustic twist. This combination of clacky, neutral, and chirpy elements results in a lively sound profile that can enhance the typing experience in various settings. In contrast, while the HMX Deep Navy switches boast a rich and sharp sound profile due to their full nylon construction, specific sound descriptions are not provided. However, the emphasis on sound quality suggests it would still create an enjoyable auditory experience. Do consider that the overall sound from either switch can be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ switches deliver a smooth typing experience that is further enhanced by their unlubed state, presenting a drier but undeniably effortless glide. They are categorized as mild, making them approachable for typists of all levels. This gentler feel can be ideal for those looking for a balance without overwhelming tactile feedback. Unfortunately, the HMX Deep Navy switches do not have a detailed description available, which leaves their specific feel characteristics unknown. However, the mention of "silky smoothness" indicates that they too could offer a pleasant typing experience, albeit without the same clarity that the Box CJ provides regarding its overall tactile sensation.
In summary, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Deep Navy linear switches bring unique attributes to the table, particularly in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ is characterized by its higher-pitched clacks and mild, smooth typing experience, the Deep Navy focuses on a rich sound profile complemented by its silky smoothness. Although the Deep Navy's tactile feedback specifics aren’t detailed, the emphasis on sound quality indicates it will still compete closely with the Box CJ in auditory pleasure. Ultimately, even though each switch has its distinctive features, enthusiasts can expect an engaging typing experience from both, with the choice largely depending on personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a bottom out force of 57 grams, the Box CJ is an excellent choice, particularly for those who enjoy a swift, responsive typing experience. Its unique blend of clacky sounds and smoother push feel offers an engaging acoustic and tactile environment, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Furthermore, with its unlubed surface, the Box CJ allows for customization, perfect for enthusiasts looking to personalize their switch experience. Conversely, if you are someone who appreciates a lighter touch, the Deep Navy with its 45-gram bottom out force will be more to your liking. Its smooth keystrokes coupled with a rich and sharp sound profile create an excellent typing experience that feels effortless. The full nylon construction adds durability, making the Deep Navy great for prolonged use, whether at home or in a professional setting. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a consistently heavier feel and customizable options (Box CJ) or a fast, smooth response with a lighter touch (Deep Navy).
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