Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both offer unique experiences for typists and gamers, each catering to different preferences and styles. The Gateron Box CJ is designed for speed, providing an exceptionally smooth push feel that enhances rapid typing while offering high-pitched clacks that deliver a satisfying auditory feedback. Its unlubed nature allows for customization, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer to tailor their switch feel and sound. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, which contributes to a bouncy sensation that can make each keystroke feel more deliberate and engaging. With its bright, resonant sound, the Lotus offers a robust auditory experience that some may find more rewarding than the drier clack of the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether one prefers the swift, customizable nature of the Box CJ or the satisfying weight and bounce of the Lotus. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
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-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their auditory and tactile experiences. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This rigidity allows for a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, making it particularly effective for users who prefer a crisp typing sound, especially in setups incorporating RGB lighting. In contrast, the top housing of the Lotus (Heavy) employs nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which dampens sound waves and results in a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the Box CJ delivers a more vibrant sound, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a subdued yet rich acoustic character, showcasing how different materials can drastically shape the auditory feedback of a switch.
When considering the bottom housings, both the Box CJ and the Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon, a classic material in mechanical switches. As with the Lotus (Heavy), the Box CJ’s nylon bottom housing also provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The similarity in materials results in comparable characteristics, where both switches share a plush tactile sensation and sound absorption due to nylon’s inherent properties. Thus, while the two switches have contrasting top housings that lead to different acoustic profiles, their shared bottom housing material creates a cohesive baseline for sound and feel that both manufacturers utilize to enhance user experience.
The interplay of these material choices underscores the importance of understanding how the combination of top and bottom housing materials affects overall performance. In the case of the Box CJ, the bright and resonant qualities of the polycarbonate top will define much of the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom, being softer, contributes to the more muted sound and feel during bottoming out. This contrasts sharply with the Lotus (Heavy), where both housings’ nylon construction merges to deliver a consistently deeper sound across both the press and release phases. As a result, players selecting between these switches may choose based on their preference for a crisper versus a fuller auditory experience while still enjoying the soft tactile characteristics provided by the nylon bottom housings in both models.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Box CJ features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, classified as medium-light. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) requires a heftier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that typists who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming will likely prefer the Box CJ, as its lower actuation force allows for easier keystrokes over time. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience will find the Lotus (Heavy) more suitable, given its greater resistance. Overall, if you are looking for a switch that feels lighter and requires less effort, the Gateron Box CJ is the ideal choice, whereas the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provides a firmer push feel for those who favor a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it's evident that the Box CJ offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) measures at 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm can significantly impact user experience: those who favor a more traditional and deeper key press may prefer the Box CJ for its increased depth, which provides a more tactile and satisfying feel. On the other hand, gamers or users seeking quicker responsiveness might lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy), as it allows for faster actuation with less force required. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either a more substantial key press or a quicker, more responsive action.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 switches are characterized by a bright and clacky auditory experience. Their acoustic profile includes sharp, snappy sounds that provide a delightful crispness with every keystroke, complemented by a faint chirp that adds personality without overwhelming the overall sound. This combination creates an engaging typing atmosphere that can satisfy both casual users and keyboard enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a bright, resonant tone that enhances the auditory feedback during typing, but without a detailed description of its nuances, it's difficult to pinpoint how it may compare to the well-defined sound signature of the Box CJ. Overall, while both switches promise engaging auditory experiences, the Lotus’s precise sound profile remains an unknown variable.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ is noted for its impossibly smooth push feel, offering an effortless typing experience that glides seamlessly across the keys. This particular switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle yet responsive tactile feedback that strikes a balance, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. The Lotus (Heavy), on the other hand, is designed to deliver a super bouncy sensation with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, which could encourage a more dynamic typing style. Without detailed qualitative descriptions of the Lotus's tactile feedback, it’s challenging to draw a direct comparison. However, it appears that both switches are crafted to excel in their respective sensations, with the Box CJ leaning toward a smooth experience and the Lotus emphasizing a responsive bounce.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches each offer unique auditory and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Box CJ stands out with its crisp, clacky sound and smooth feel, ideal for those who appreciate rapid response and customization potential. Meanwhile, the Lotus boasts a medium-heavy actuation force and a bright sound, enhancing its bouncy feel. Though the subjective qualities can vary in nature, both switches are designed to provide enjoyable typing experiences, and your choice will ultimately depend on your specific preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you favor a lighter key feel with a quick, responsive action and enjoy a distinctive, higher-pitched clack that can enhance your typing experience or gaming performance, the Box CJ may be your ideal choice. Its smooth glide and customizable lubrication options make it a perfect fit for those who appreciate a more raw and authentic feel or those who enjoy tweaking their keyboard for personal comfort. Conversely, if you prefer a more robust keypress with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, along with a bright and bouncy keystroke experience that adds a delightful cadence to your typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is likely more suitable for you. The resonant sound combined with the added weight can give you a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances your overall typing pleasure. By assessing your preferences for actuation weight, sound, and smoothness, you can confidently select the switch that best suits your unique typing style.
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