Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent options that cater to different preferences are the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX FJ400, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its quick response time and signature high-pitched clacks, making it an excellent choice for typists who thrive on speed and appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. Its smooth push feel, coming from the unique unlubed design, offers a raw and engaging typing experience that can be enhanced with custom lubrication for those looking to personalize their setup. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 provides a balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking a more neutral auditory experience without sacrificing performance. Its status as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup makes it an adaptable choice for both typing and gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prefer the lively character of the Box CJ or the understated versatility of the FJ400. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
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 comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX FJ400 switches, a clear distinction emerges in their top housing compositions. The Box CJ employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This crispness and clarity are particularly enhanced when RGB lighting is incorporated, thanks to polycarbonate's ability to allow light to pass through with minimal distortion. In contrast, the FJ400 utilizes a POM top housing that yields a deeper, more muted sound profile. The differences between polycarbonate and POM not only affect the acoustic characteristics of the switches but also their aesthetic appeal, particularly in setups where RGB lighting is a consideration.
Regarding the bottom housing, both the Box CJ and the FJ400 switches utilize nylon, which is considered a classic material in switch construction. Nylon contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties, which absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that both switches will produce a similar roundness in sound when bottomed out, inheriting the muted qualities of this material. The commonality of nylon here ensures a familiar typing experience in terms of texture and auditory feedback, where the impact of each keystroke feels gratifying.
To understand the overall sound experience of these switches, it is essential to recognize how the different top housing materials influence the auditory characteristics. With the Box CJ’s polycarbonate top resulting in a sharper auditory response and the FJ400’s POM top delivering a fuller and deeper sound, the overall acoustic experience will be one of contrast. However, the nylon bottom in both switches will harmonize their typing dynamics, leading to a deeper sound when pressed down, which balances the differing top housing effects. In this scenario, while the typing experience remains consistent in terms of the bottom-out sound, the unique interactions of the materials create distinct profiles when considering overall performance and feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, we find some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the FJ400 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. As a result, the Box CJ is better suited for users looking for a lighter touch, which could enhance typing comfort during prolonged use, making it an excellent choice for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the FJ400's heavier actuation force would appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Despite their slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches deliver a similar overall performance, allowing users to achieve satisfactory results based on their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Gateron Box CJ demonstrates a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX FJ400 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. The Box CJ, with its traditional travel distance, will provide a more robust and hearty depth, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press. In contrast, the FJ400, being shorter, aligns with modern preferences for quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers who favor agility over depth. Ultimately, your choice between the two should hinge on whether you prioritize depth and the tactile feedback of the longer travel distance or the responsiveness and speed of the shorter one.
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 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.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is characterized by a distinct clacky, chirpy, and somewhat bright acoustic quality. When typing, users can expect sharp, crisp sounds, reminiscent of the characteristic feedback that many typists enjoy for a satisfying auditory experience. This clackiness is complemented by a chirpy nuance that adds a unique dimension to the typing sound. In contrast, the HMX FJ400’s sound profile is described as balanced but lacks additional descriptors that would help in specifying its overall acoustic character. Therefore, while both switches can provide engaging auditory feedback, the Box CJ is likely to be more pronounced and expressive.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Box CJ offers a notably smooth push experience. Its mild characteristics create a gentle typing sensation that’s comfortable for long durations, enabling an effortless glide during keystrokes. This means typists can enjoy a smooth experience without any jarring tactile feedback, making it appealing for both casual and intensive usage. The feel of the FJ400 remains largely ambiguous due to the lack of detailed descriptors, leaving its tactile experience somewhat unknown. This uncertainty suggests that users interested in the FJ400 will need to experience it firsthand to fully appreciate its feel.
In summary, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch stands out with its crisp, clacky sound and incredibly smooth feel, offering a highly engaging typing experience that caters to both speed and comfort. Meanwhile, the HMX FJ400 provides a more balanced sound profile but lacks specific details regarding its tactile experience, making it harder to determine how it stacks up against the Box CJ. For those who prefer the expressive auditory feedback combined with smooth operation, the Box CJ is likely the better choice, while the FJ400 remains a more neutral option that may appeal to users seeking reliability without a distinctly characteristic sound or feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and HMX FJ400 linear switches, it’s essential to consider your typing style and intended use. If you are looking for a switch that offers a swift response and a unique auditory experience, the Box CJ is a strong contender. Its higher-pitched, clacky sound and exceptionally smooth push feel make it ideal for rapid typists or gamers who appreciate a snappy feedback while also being customizable with lubrication to enhance personal preferences. On the other hand, if you’re after a more balanced typing experience, the FJ400 serves as a versatile option. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force and neutral sound profile, it fits comfortably in a variety of environments, making it suitable for both work and leisure without drawing too much attention. Therefore, your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize speed and sound dynamics with the Box CJ, or a more generic yet satisfying typing experience with the FJ400.
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