Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Perky present two distinct yet equally appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The Gateron Box CJ stands out with its remarkable speed characteristics and a unique higher-pitched typing sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize rapid response and a touch of auditory feedback. Its unlubed design offers a raw, smooth feel, appealing to users who appreciate customization and want to fine-tune their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky delves into a more polished territory with its softer nylon housing, delivering a deeply satisfying and condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance. This switch leans towards a plush tactile sensation that many typists find comforting and enjoyable. Both options boast their own set of strengths, with the Box CJ offering a more customizable, adventurous ride and the Perky providing a refined, silky touch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Perky switches, a distinct difference in material choice for the top housing creates notable variations in sound profiles. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer structure. This rigidity allows the switch to produce a more pronounced and resonant auditory experience, making it particularly appealing for those who favor clarity in sound feedback while typing. The translucency of polycarbonate aids in the visibility of RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal in illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Perky's nylon top housing offers a fundamentally different experience with its softer, more absorbent quality, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The subdued auditory characteristics provided by the nylon housing create a more rounded typing experience, suited for users who prefer a softer key response.
Both switches share the same material for their bottom housings, utilizing nylon for the Box CJ and Perky alike. This commonality influences the bottom-out feel and sound of both switches in a similar fashion. Since nylon is inherently a softer plastic, it contributes to a muted sound that resonates deeper when the key is pressed down completely. Consequently, users will experience a consistent bottoming-out sensation between the two models, providing a warm and rich acoustic feedback. This shared material helps minimize the variation in user experience during this part of the keypress, despite the different qualities imparted by the top housing materials.
In summary, while the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Perky switches differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Box CJ and nylon for the Perky—they exhibit continuity in performance through their shared nylon bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing in both switches results in an enjoyable and consistent bottoming-out experience characterized by depth and fullness. However, the disparity in top housing materials leads to divergent sound profiles when releasing the keys. Users who appreciate a sharper sound will likely gravitate towards the Box CJ, whereas those who value a softer auditory experience might prefer the HMX Perky. Therefore, the sound experience when typing on these switches will ultimately hinge on the user’s priorities regarding sound characteristics and the aesthetic integration of RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the HMX Perky linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light, while the HMX Perky offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. As a result, the HMX Perky is the lighter switch, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the Box CJ has a heftier feel, which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial tactile experience while typing. Overall, while both switches are designed for a linear feel, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces can influence the overall typing experience and comfort, allowing users to choose based on their preference for lighter or heavier switch feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Perky measures 3.4 mm. This difference positions the Box CJ as the option that offers a more traditional, deeper feel, which some users may prefer for its sturdy feedback and tactile depth. In contrast, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Perky switch caters to gamers and users seeking faster response times, making it potentially more appealing for rapid typing and gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your preference will dictate which switch is more suitable: if you enjoy the more substantial depth, go with the Box CJ; however, if responsiveness is your priority, the Perky is the better choice.
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 Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Perky linear switches provide a clacky auditory feedback, characterized by a crisp and bright sound profile that is sharp and snappy upon each keypress. While the Box CJ is also noted for having a higher-pitched clack accompanied by a slight chirp, the Perky maintains a distinctly clacky sound without the chirpy characteristic. This means that while both switches deliver a satisfying acoustic signature, the Box CJ’s sound profile is more dynamic and varied, which may appeal to users seeking a more complex auditory experience, while the Perky offers consistency in its clack.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its impossibly smooth push, allowing for swift and effortless key presses. However, it is presented unlubed, providing a unique tactile experience that can either feel raw or serve as a base for personalized lubrication, giving typists room for customization. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switches are described with terms such as polished and silky, highlighting a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance. This difference suggests that while both switches excel in delivering a comfortable typing experience, the Perky leans more toward an inherently smooth feel, whereas the Box CJ offers an opportunity for users to tailor the feel to their preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Perky linear switches have impressive sound and feel qualities, with the Box CJ standing out for its higher-pitched clack and customization potential, while the Perky offers a consistently smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, users choosing between these two switches should consider their personal preferences regarding sound dynamics and tactile sensations, as both options can provide a rewarding typing experience, albeit through slightly different paths.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a medium-light bottom-out force and crave a unique auditory experience characterized by higher-pitched clacks and a pronounced speed response, then the Box CJ is likely the right pick for you. Its intentionally unlubed nature allows you to explore customization options, making it ideal for enthusiasts looking for a tailored switch experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for a more effortless typing experience, the Perky is a fantastic option. With its polished and silky feel, combined with a neutral sound profile, it delivers a satisfying and smooth typing journey that is approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize auditory feedback and customizable feel, or whether you seek a more refined, smooth, and gentle typing experience.
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