Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Hibiscus both offer delightful linear experiences but cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron Box CJ, recognized for its rapid response and unique higher-pitched clacks, provides typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, though its unlubed state allows enthusiasts to customize the experience to their liking. This switch is characterized by its clacky, mild, yet neutral sound profile, making it an intriguing choice for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback in their typing. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus stands out for its ultra-light actuation force, which complements an exceptionally smooth travel and a satisfyingly crispy sound signature that appeals to users seeking a seamless and engaging typing experience. While the Hibiscus excels in delivering comfort with its clack and pop, the Box CJ allows for a more personalized feel through customization. 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
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
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
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Hibiscus switches, the materials used for their top housings stand out as a significant point of contrast. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity. This polycarbonate housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which offers a lively typing experience often favored by enthusiasts seeking auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material recognized for its softer characteristics. This nylon top absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller tone that results in a more subdued, rounded auditory experience. Thus, users can expect that the sound output when typing on these switches will differ greatly, with the Box CJ delivering a crisper click while the Hibiscus provides a warmer acoustic quality.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, making that feature a point of similarity. The sound profile created by nylon is known to yield a duller and rounder effect due to its soft characteristics, which absorb vibrations better than harder plastics. Consequently, both the Box CJ and the Hibiscus switch offer a deeper sound when bottoming out, relying on this nylon material to create a more full-bodied typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in each switch means that regardless of their distinct top housings, users will find a level of consistency in the way the switches feel and sound upon actuation.
While the top and bottom housings of these two switches differ in terms of materials, this variation impacts the overall sound profile and tactile feedback each switch delivers. The Box CJ’s polycarbonate top creates a bright and resonant release sound, while the Hibiscus’s nylon top ensures a smoother, rounded release. Users who seek a typing experience that balances these auditory qualities might appreciate the Box CJ for its clarity during key releases and the Hibiscus for its warmth when keys are struck. Ultimately, the combination of these materials significantly influences the overall acoustic experience, providing an array of tactile sensations that cater to differing preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Hibiscus is more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended usage periods. Meanwhile, the Box CJ offers a heavier feel that some users may appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, if you desire a lighter switch for longer typing sessions, the HMX Hibiscus is the better option. However, for users who appreciate a bit more resistance, the Box CJ stands out with its heavier forces. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for weight and feel in your keyboard experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hibiscus has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.5 mm difference means that the Box CJ may offer a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, which some users prefer for a satisfying feel during typing. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter distance, caters to those who value quicker response times, making it potentially more appealing for gaming and fast-paced activities. In conclusion, if you seek a more responsive experience, the HMX Hibiscus would be the ideal choice, while the Gateron Box CJ is better suited for those who appreciate a fuller keystroke.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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
The sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is characterized by its clacky and chirpy attributes, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when pressed. The sound produced is crisp, bright, and percussive, suitable for both typists and gamers alike, while also offering a neutral quality that makes it versatile for various environments. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch are less defined, leaving the auditory experience somewhat unknown. Factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps will significantly influence how each switch sounds in practice, but for the Box CJ, you can expect a lively acoustic signature that enhances the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Box CJ provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable action that is particularly friendly for users who may not want the more aggressive characteristics of other switches. This smooth yet controlled feel allows for comfortable extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the tactile quality of the HMX Hibiscus is not specified, so it leaves a gap in understanding how it compares to the Box CJ in terms of interaction during typing. Therefore, while the Box CJ’s mild feel ensures an enjoyable typing experience, the Hibiscus's feel remains an open question.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Hibiscus linear switches cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ offering a well-defined sound and a smooth, mild feel that many users will find appealing. The Hibiscus’s sound and feel remain somewhat unknown but could potentially match or contrast with the Box CJ. Ultimately, if you choose the Box CJ, you're guaranteed a lively sound and an exceptionally smooth experience, while the Hibiscus may offer its own unique charm yet to be discovered.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios play a significant role. If you prefer a balance of fast actuation with a slightly heavier feel, along with that characteristic clacky sound, the Box CJ is an excellent choice. Its bottom-out force of 57 grams makes it suitable for both typing and gaming, while the smooth yet raw feel allows for customization if you prefer to lube your switches for an even better experience. In contrast, if you enjoy a light touch and a more satisfying auditory feedback, the HMX Hibiscus will cater to your needs admirably. With its ultra-light actuation force of just 48 grams and a clacky, poppy sound, this switch is ideal for long typing sessions or casual gaming, where a light touch can enhance comfort and speed. Thus, your decision should hinge on whether you value a more traditional, versatile typing experience with the Box CJ, or if your preference leans towards a lighter, playful interaction with the Hibiscus, which can transform the way you engage with your keyboard.
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