Gateron CJ vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g are two popular options to consider. The CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, offering a higher-pitched clack sound and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g provides a clacky sound profile with a heavier touch, ideal for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience. While the CJ is described as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', and 'Thocky', the Cloud - 63.5g is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. 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
50g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which creates a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile described as clacky. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g uses nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the CJ's POM bottom housing produces a relatively more muted and deeper sound, the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The CJ's combination of INK blend and POM housings creates a satisfying and deep sound, whereas the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housings result in a fuller and rounder sound. While the top housing of a switch impacts the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g housing materials ultimately depends on personal preference and desired sound profile. Those seeking a clacky and high-pitched sound may prefer the CJ with its proprietary INK blend top housing, while individuals looking for a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g with its nylon top housing. Both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the variety of options available in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, we find that the CJ has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 56 grams of the Cloud - 63.5g. However, in terms of bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams while the Cloud - 63.5g needs 63.5 grams, making the Cloud - 63.5g slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, offering a decent amount of resistance for typing. Those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the CJ, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it is clear that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's 3.9 mm. While the 0.1 mm may seem negligible, it can make a difference in the feel and response of the switch. The CJ's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional and offers a bit more depth to the keystroke, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g's 3.9 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it more suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 CJ for $5.35.
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g 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 CJ linear switch offers a unique chirpy quality that sets it apart from others, providing a slightly squeaky but distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the CJ being higher-pitched and the Cloud - 63.5g having a higher-pitched clack.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CJ switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with a noticeable rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, if you prefer a higher-pitched, chirpy sound with a smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get distinct and enjoyable typing experiences with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences: If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a medium bottom out force, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier variant with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel characteristics that best match your typing preferences and style.
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