Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Jelly

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Jelly exemplify two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts of linear switches. The Box CJ is celebrated for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, delivering an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly under your fingers. Its unlubed nature invites customization, allowing typists to achieve a tailored tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Jelly boasts a low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying, paired with an excellent factory lubrication that enhances its smoothness. Additionally, the Jelly's lightweight actuation force of 42g makes it accessible for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. While both switches cater to linear switch lovers, the Box CJ offers a more customizable experience, while the Jelly provides a plush feel straight out of the box. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Box CJ Linear

HMX Jelly Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Jelly switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material’s translucency also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly when used with RGB lighting, as it allows for vivid light transmission. In contrast, the HMX Jelly boasts a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softer nature of nylon produces a rounder sound, which contrasts sharply with the crispness provided by the Box CJ’s polycarbonate top.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Box CJ and HMX Jelly employ nylon. This similarity suggests that their bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback will share a common foundation. Nylon’s inherent characteristics allow both switches to provide a deeper and more muffled sound when the key is pressed down. Thus, despite the differences in their top housings, the experience of bottoming out between the two switches will feel notably similar, with the nylon material contributing a rich and cushioned feel during key presses.

Ultimately, the combination of materials used in each switch results in varied sound profiles while pointing to a shared experience in bottom-out performance. The Box CJ’s polycarbonate top delivers a bright and resonant sound that contrasts with the Jelly’s softer and more muted top, illustrating the influence of housing materials on the overall typing experience. This divergence in top materials means that users can expect different auditory sensations when releasing the keys. However, the commonality in bottom housing ensures a consistent tactile experience. Therefore, users can choose between the two switches based on their sound preferences, knowing that the bottom-out sensation will remain comfortably similar.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct preferences among users. The Box CJ features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Jelly switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a lighter typing experience. Consequently, the HMX Jelly is the easier switch to press, ideal for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the heavier Box CJ offers a more substantial feel, which may appeal to users who enjoy a stronger tactile response. Overall, while the Box CJ requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out when compared to the Jelly, both switches are designed to cater to different typing preferences, emphasizing the importance of choosing a switch that aligns with individual typing styles.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, the Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jelly has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Box CJ switch provides a more traditional feel, offering a heartier depth that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the Jelly, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times. While both switches are linear in nature, catering to smooth keypresses, the Gateron Box CJ will typically provide a deeper experience, whereas the HMX Jelly may feel more abrupt but is designed for speed. This distinction between a fuller experience and a quicker response is essential in choosing the right switch for individual preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces a higher-pitched clacky tone that offers a crisp and bright auditory experience. This sharp, percussive quality makes it particularly engaging for typists who enjoy a more lively feedback. Its acoustic profile is complemented by a subtle chirp, adding an interesting character to the sound without being overwhelming. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switch features a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that provides a rich, satisfying auditory experience. The Jelly's sound profile tends to be more muted compared to the Box CJ, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is desirable. However, the overall acoustic experience is largely influenced by the keyboard build and keycap material, meaning users have some control over the final sound output regardless of which switch they choose.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience that glides with ease. With its unlubed design, it presents a natural, raw smoothness that can be appreciated in its unadulterated form or customized later for enthusiasts looking to personalize their typing experience further. The Box CJ is characterized as mild, making it approachable for typists of all levels. Unlike the CJ, the specific feel of the HMX Jelly switch is not detailed, indicating that its tactile feedback and overall typing sensation remain somewhat unknown. However, with the Jelly switch's reputation for smoothness, one might anticipate a similarly pleasant and lightweight typing experience.

In summary, the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Jelly switches each offer distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ stands out with its lively, high-pitched clacky sound and effortlessly smooth feel. While the Jelly switch promises a deep, thocky auditory experience and smooth actuation, its specific feel remains unspecified. Ultimately, both switches enable typists to find a satisfying typing experience, whether one prefers the dynamic quality of the Box CJ or the quieter, thocky nature of the Jelly. Regardless of choice, users can expect a rewarding and enjoyable interaction with either option.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Jelly switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a medium-light actuation force with a more responsive feel, and enjoy a higher-pitched clacking sound that provides auditory feedback, the Gateron Box CJ is an excellent choice. Its smoothness and potential for customization make it ideal for typists who crave speed and precision in their key presses, particularly in fast-paced gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, the deep, thocky sound signature, and smooth feel that comes from the expertly lubed HMX Jelly switch is likely to be more appealing. This switch caters well to those who appreciate a softer touch while still maintaining a satisfying auditory experience, suitable for casual typing and appropriate for quieter environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the characteristics that enhance your typing experience, whether that’s the snappy response of the Box CJ or the cushioned feedback of the Jelly.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more