Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Box CJ shines with its signature higher-pitched clacks and remarkably smooth actuation, designed for users who desire rapid response times and a more tactile typing experience. This unlubed switch allows for a customizable feel, making it appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy tweaking their setups for optimal performance. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g prioritizes a serene, quiet typing experience without sacrificing smoothness, making it the ideal choice for light typists or those working in noise-sensitive environments. With its ultra-light 43g actuation force, it ensures effortless keystrokes and a gentle touch that feels soft and subtle, akin to the sound of raindrops. While both switches are linear in nature, catering to different typing styles and environments, 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, we see a distinct divergence in the types of plastics used for the top housing. The Box CJ employs polycarbonate for its top housing, imparting a sharper and crisper sound profile that is characterized by a resonance often associated with harder plastics. This choice of material contributes to a more transparent acoustic signature that can be particularly appealing in setups utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective light diffusion. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes nylon for its top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon dampens sound, resulting in a more rounded acoustic experience, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a muted and less harsh auditory feedback during typing.
On examining the bottom housings, we find an intriguing reversal of materials: the Box CJ features nylon that echoes the dampening characteristics seen in its top housing counterpart, while the Silent Sakura - 43g has a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ contributes to a softer, more muffled bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall tactile experience, especially beneficial for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura - 43g infuses its sound profile with a sharper clarity, resulting in a more pronounced sound when the key is bottomed out. This contrast creates a layered auditory experience that allows both switches to appeal to different preferences, even if their respective acoustic qualities manifest differently between the top and bottom housing.
Ultimately, the contrasting properties of these housing materials create distinct sound profiles while simultaneously allowing certain overlapping characteristics. Both switches will deliver varying auditory sensations depending on how they meld the two housing materials—whether through the softer nylon in the Box CJ or the harder polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura - 43g. Users can expect that the typing experience will feel different based on the combination of these materials: the Box CJ likely offering a softer, more muted experience, whereas the Silent Sakura - 43g may favor those seeking sharper and louder acoustics. Therefore, while they embody different materials, both switches can provide a unique tactile and auditory experience based on how the distinct materials of the top and bottom housings interact during use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, qualifying it as a light switch. This means users of the Silent Sakura will experience less resistance while typing or gaming, potentially allowing for longer usage periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Gateron Box CJ, being the heavier option, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch for extended typing sessions, the Silent Sakura is the better choice, while the Box CJ caters to those who appreciate a firmer keystroke. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their weight and actuation forces, ultimately catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they have the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This equivalent travel distance suggests that users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing or gaming on keyboards equipped with either switch. With both switches allowing for the same amount of key press travel, they would provide comparable responsiveness and feel, making them suitable options for those who prioritize a uniform typing experience.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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 comparing the sound of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch, the Box CJ exhibits a distinctive acoustic profile characterized by higher-pitched clacks, creating a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, giving typists clear auditory feedback as they type. The addition of a chirp element enhances its uniqueness, offering a lively auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered specifically for silence and tranquility, producing a whisper-quiet typing experience – akin to gentle raindrops tapping against a window. Thus, while the Box CJ makes its presence known with its clacky and chirpy tones, the Silent Sakura is designed to remain unobtrusive, providing a serene typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ provides a notably smooth push, gliding effortlessly under the fingers. The switch is classified as having a mild characteristic, delivering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users, whether beginners or seasoned typists. This seamless motion creates an appealing tactile experience without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g switch remains undefined in the information provided, leaving an unknown aspect for those seeking a unique typing sensation. However, given its ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, it can be assumed that the Silent Sakura might offer a lighter feel suited for those who prefer a soft touch.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches ultimately boils down to the user’s prioritization of sound versus the heavy weight of typing sensation. The Box CJ offers a lively and energetic auditory profile, complemented by a smooth and gentle feel suitable for most. Conversely, the Silent Sakura caters to those seeking a tranquil and almost inaudible typing experience, making it ideal for quieter settings. Typists who prefer a sound-rich feedback mechanism might lean toward the Box CJ, while those desiring a serene typing environment would find the Silent Sakura more to their liking.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Box CJ linear switches and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches ultimately depends on your typing style and environment. If you are looking for a switch that offers a balance of responsiveness, smoothness, and a satisfying auditory experience, the Gateron Box CJ is an excellent choice. Its clacky and chirpy sound profile, coupled with a 57g bottom out force, makes it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of acoustics in their typing and prefer a medium-light touch. The Box CJ is particularly well-suited for fast-paced typists or gamers who appreciate rapid actuation and a texture that begs for customization. On the other hand, if you prioritize a peaceful typing experience, especially in shared or quiet spaces, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is your go-to option. With a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches deliver an ultra-smooth and virtually silent typing experience, perfect for light typists or anyone who seeks to minimize noise while maintaining a gentle touch. In short, your choice should reflect your personal preferences—whether you crave the lively feedback of the Box CJ or the serene silence of the Silent Sakura.
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