Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options like the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX EVA can significantly enhance your typing experience. The Gateron Box CJ is ideal for those who prioritize rapid response and a unique auditory experience, characterized by its distinctive higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. Its unlubed design invites customization, allowing enthusiasts to personalize the switch according to their preference. On the other hand, the HMX EVA, inspired by the visually striking Evangelion Unit-01, offers a resonant sound signature along with a similarly silky smooth typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate both aesthetics and smooth operation. While both switches are linear and focus on delivering a satisfying feel, the Box CJ’s clacky nature juxtaposed against the EVA’s more subdued resonance presents diverse options for typists. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs most effectively.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T2
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX EVA switches, significant differences can be noted, particularly in their top housings. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality makes it particularly appealing for users who appreciate a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting, as the transparent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect. In contrast, the HMX EVA utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice among switch manufacturers due to its softer composition. This material tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it, producing a deeper, fuller, and rounder sound profile instead.
When we examine the bottom housings of these two switches, we discover a point of similarity. Both the Box CJ and the EVA utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar sound experience when it comes to bottoming out. The nylon's softer characteristics contribute to a more muted and comfortable feel, which is particularly noticeable during typing. As the bottom housing plays a critical role in the overall sound and feel of a key press, users can expect a consistent deep sound profile from both switches when the key bottom-outs, thanks to the shared material in this portion of their construction.
In summary, the differing materials of the top housings create distinct auditory experiences when pressing the keys; with the Box CJ’s polycarbonate offering a brighter and more resonant sound, while the EVA’s nylon delivers a warmer and fuller tone. However, because both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, they maintain a level of consistency in sound quality during the key press's conclusion. This interplay of contrasting and complementary materials not only provides diverse auditory profiles between the two switches but also allows users to appreciate both sharper and fuller sounds as they type.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, notable differences can be observed in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the EVA is slightly lighter at 42 grams. This means that the EVA might feel more comfortable for longer typing sessions, as its lighter actuation force may reduce finger fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Box CJ goes up to 57 grams compared to the EVA's 48 grams, making the Box CJ the heavier option overall. This greater force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feedback during typing, whereas the EVA offers a softer, lighter touch. Overall, the Gateron Box CJ provides a firmer typing experience, while the HMX EVA cater to those seeking a lighter feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and offers a hearty depth that some users may find more satisfying during typing. In contrast, the HMX EVA has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel, particularly gamers seeking quicker actuation. Thus, the Box CJ is the longer switch with its 4 mm travel distance, while the HMX EVA is the shorter option at 3.6 mm. If users prioritize responsiveness, the EVA would be the ideal choice; however, if a deeper tactile experience is desired, the Box CJ would be preferable.
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 EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a distinctive auditory experience. Characterized by its higher-pitched clacks, the CJ produces a crisp and bright sound profile that can be described as clacky and chirpy, lending itself to a percussive typing experience. While this sharpness can be invigorating for typists, it is important to note that sound production can also vary widely depending on the keyboard board and keycap materials used. The HMX EVA switch's sound signature isn't explicitly defined in the provided information, but it is designed to be resonant, which suggests a more pronounced audio experience than typical linear switches. However, without specific descriptors for the EVA, comparisons remain speculative.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ excels with its impossibly smooth push, allowing for effortless keystrokes. It is classified as a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience that remains approachable for both novice and experienced typists. The unlubed nature of the CJ allows users the opportunity to customize the switch to their taste, which can further enhance the feel based on personal preference. In contrast, the feel of the HMX EVA switch is described as silky smooth; however, additional details regarding its resistance or actuation force are not presented. This leaves a gap in understanding how it may compare directly with the CJ in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX EVA linear switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ stands out for its vibrant sound profile and superior smoothness, making it a favorable choice for those seeking an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, while the EVA offers a visually inspired design with an appealing acoustic signature, its exact characteristics are less clear. Ultimately, if you prioritize sound and feel in your typing experience, the Box CJ offers a certain notable precision that is hard to overlook, while the EVA may present a more resonant yet undefined quality worth exploring.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX EVA linear switches will ultimately depend on your personal typing style and preferences. If you favor a medium-light touch with a higher bottom-out force and appreciate the crisp, clacky sound profile that provides auditory feedback while typing, the Box CJ would be a great option for you—especially if you enjoy a swift response and wish to customize the feel of your switches with lubrication. This switch shines for both gaming scenarios requiring rapid keystrokes and typing tasks where a little sound can enhance your engagement. Conversely, if you prefer an even lighter touch and want a smooth typing experience that emphasizes a resonant sound signature without the need for additional customization, the HMX EVA may be more suited to your needs. With its silky feel, this switch caters well to those who prioritize comfort and quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions or professional environments. In essence, consider your typing environment, the feedback you desire, and the tactile responsiveness you expect when making your decision between these two unique linear switches.
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