Gateron Box CJ vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Neo White both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the hallmark attributes of the CJ lineage, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White is also a linear switch known for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a distinctive typing feel with a remarkably smooth actuation. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. These general pointers can assist you in making a decision on which switch may be best for you; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Neo White feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboards with lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound when typing, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users of both switches.
On the other hand, the Box CJ and the Neo White differ in their bottom housings, with the Box CJ using nylon and the Neo White also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this feature, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch is significant, providing users with a tactile typing experience that is unique to each switch.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Neo White share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference in their bottom housings allows for distinct typing experiences. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch contributes to a well-rounded sound profile, with the top housing influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile from the Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound profile from the Neo White's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that the Box CJ is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the Neo White's actuation force is not specified. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Box CJ at 57 grams and the Neo White at 58 grams. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Neo White offers a medium typing experience, suitable for users who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for a more personalized typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Box CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Neo White provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the Neo White for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper press may opt for the Box CJ. Overall, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ being slightly longer and the Neo White being slightly shorter.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This gives typists a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, but the Box CJ provides a more distinct and unique clacky sound compared to the Neo White.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Neo White linear switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that typists can expect a gentle and approachable feel when using either switch. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ combined with the slightly reduced total travel of the Neo White creates a satisfying typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Typists who prefer a more gentle typing experience will appreciate the feel of both switches.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, typists can expect similar results in terms of feel but will notice a difference in sound. The Box CJ offers a clacky and distinct sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Neo White provides a neutral sound profile suitable for a variety of uses. Both switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, making them great options for those looking for linear switches with different sound characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a swift response, higher-pitched clacks, and an incredibly smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctive typing feel with a slightly reduced total travel and a smooth actuation, the Haimu Neo White switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile, the Box CJ offers that unique acoustic signature, while the Neo White provides a neutral sound profile that is versatile for various settings. Ultimately, both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable for most users. Consider these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences.
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