Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX SU each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and gaming styles. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, making it an ideal choice for typists who appreciate a lively auditory feedback while maintaining a smooth keystroke experience. Its unlubed design allows for a customizable feel, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer to fine-tune their switches to match their exact preferences. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a subtly deeper sound profile that may resonate well with users who favor a more subdued auditory experience. While both switches are linear, the Box CJ leans towards a more dynamic and high-pitched sound, whereas the SU promotes a softer, deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, whether one prioritizes speed and a chirpy sound or a quieter, deeper acoustic feel; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX SU switches, significant differences emerge in their top housing components. The Gateron Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer structure. This material's translucency also enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is used, allowing the light to shine through and create visual effects. In contrast, the HMX SU switch features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Box CJ focuses on a clear and bright sound, the HMX SU leans into a more muted tone, showcasing the distinct auditory characteristics each material brings to the table.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches share a notable similarity as they both employ nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, further bolstered by its sound-absorbing qualities. Consequently, both the Box CJ and HMX SU will offer a similar auditory experience at the bottom of the keystroke, where the nylon's characteristics play a crucial role in defining the feel and sound of the switch's bottom-out experience. As a result, despite the differences in the top housings, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a consistent, round sound profile during the act of typing.
The interaction of these housing materials can significantly influence the total typing experience. With the Box CJ's crisp polycarbonate top and the nylon bottom, users can expect a clear and sharp auditory output when releasing the key, paired with a fuller sound when bottoming out. In contrast, the HMX SU switch, with its nylon top and bottom housings, delivers a consistently softer and more muted auditory feedback throughout the entire keystroke. Therefore, while both switches maintain a similar sound profile from their nylon bottoms, the differences in their top housings result in unique sound dynamics, allowing typists to choose their preferred sound experience based on their material preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it's clear that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of activation. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Box CJ measuring 57 grams and the SU measuring only 50 grams. This means that while both switches will require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, the Box CJ will feel heavier overall due to its higher bottom out force. As a result, the Box CJ is considered to have a medium-light feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push when typing. In contrast, the HMX SU, being the lighter option with its lower bottom out force, is suited for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for long hours of use, such as in work environments or during extensive gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you prioritize lighter switches, the HMX SU would be your best choice, while those who prefer a stronger interaction might lean towards the Gateron Box CJ.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the HMX SU linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distances can impact the feel of the keypress—while the Box CJ offers a more substantial depth that some users may find satisfying for typing, the SU's shorter distance caters to gamers looking for quicker response times and swift actuation. If you're inclined toward a more responsive feel, the HMX SU might be the better choice, while those who prefer a more traditional depth will likely favor the Gateron Box CJ. In summary, the Box CJ provides a deeper keypress at 4 mm, while the shorter 3.6 mm distance of the HMX SU may feel quicker and more abrupt.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 excels with its vibrant tonal qualities. Known for producing higher-pitched clacks, these switches generate a crisp and bright auditory experience, combining sharpness with a percussive quality that typists often find satisfying. The Box CJ is also distinctive with its chirpy characteristics, adding a slight squeak that further enhances the playful sound profile. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch’s sound profile remains less defined based on the provided information, resulting in uncertainty regarding the depth or tonal qualities it may possess. This makes it difficult to compare directly, but sound is inherently influenced by other factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ offers a notably smooth experience, characterized by an effortless push that typists appreciate. Its mild nature means that the tactile feedback is gentle and approachable, appealing to a wide range of users from beginners to seasoned typists. The unlubed state can be leveraged by enthusiasts seeking a raw sensation or customization potential. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unspecified, leaving a gap in understanding how it would compare to the Box CJ when it comes to tactile feedback or overall typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and HMX SU linear switches target different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Box CJ shines with a rich auditory profile and a smooth, mild feel that caters to those who value responsive typing and customizable characteristics. In contrast, while the SU's auditory and tactile experiences are not detailed, potential users might need to explore further before making a choice. Ultimately, if sound and feel are paramount in your decision-making, the Box CJ stands out as a clear option, although discovering more about the SU could present alternative qualities worth considering.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a smooth, responsive typing experience with a bit of a character, the Box CJ is a fantastic option. Its slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams provides a satisfying and controlled keystroke, while its clacky and chirpy sound profile adds an engaging auditory element that many typists enjoy. This switch is particularly appealing for gamers and fast typists who crave rapid response and a unique sound signature, making it an exciting choice for those who want a switch that can keep up with their speed while still feeling fluid. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more subdued auditory experience, the HMX SU with its 50-gram bottom-out force may be more suited to your needs. The SU's full PA12 housing and deep sound profile offer a calm and neutral typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions in quieter environments where you want to minimize distractions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a spirited and tactile experience with the Box CJ or a more gentle and muted approach with the HMX SU.
Mentioned in this article
