Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Hutt offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch known for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt is a tactile switch featuring a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, offering a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience with a balanced sound profile. While the Box CJ excels in rapid response and smoothness, the Hutt stands out for its tactile feedback and satisfying typing experience. 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
49g
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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Hutt utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches results in a more clear and resonant sound due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Despite the similar material used in the top housing, the overall design and construction of each switch may still produce slightly different sound profiles due to variations in manufacturing processes.
In contrast, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, while the Hutt also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Both switches incorporating nylon bottom housings may differ in feel and sound when pressed, impacting the overall typing experience for users.
Given the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Hutt, users can expect varying sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for clear, resonant sound and nylon bottom housings for fuller sound profiles, the way these materials interact with each other can affect the overall feel and sound of the switches. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is better suited for individual users.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, while the Hutt only needs 49 grams. This means that the Box CJ is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Hutt switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might find the Bsun Hutt more comfortable for extended use, while users who enjoy a firmer typing feel may lean towards the Gateron Box CJ for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being slightly longer than the Hutt. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hutt for faster response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the Box CJ to provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch is known for its clacky and neutral sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt switch offers a resonant sound profile, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Box CJ may lean towards a more percussive sound while the Hutt provides a higher-pitched resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground approach to tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt switch offers a snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented feel, with a pronounced tactile bump that provides a satisfying typing sensation. While the Box CJ switch emphasizes a gentler typing experience, the Hutt switch focuses on delivering lively, responsive feedback to the typist.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a swift and smooth typing experience with clacky sounds, while the Hutt switch offers a medium-heavy spring with a prominent tactile bump and a resonant sound profile. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Box CJ catering to those seeking rapid response and smoother keystrokes, while the Hutt caters to individuals looking for a more tactile and invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, and either choice will likely result in a satisfying typing experience, depending on the individual's preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a faster response time and a smoother typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump, a medium-heavy spring, and a light bottom out force, then the Hutt switch could be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, the Box CJ may be more suitable, while if you appreciate a resonant and immersive auditory experience, the Hutt could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what features matter most to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
