Gateron CJ vs. HMX Deep Navy
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Deep Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between Gateron CJ and HMX Deep Navy linear switches highlight the diverse characteristics available for typists and gamers alike. The CJ switches are celebrated for their unique auditory feedback, producing high-pitched clacks alongside an incredibly smooth push feel, making them an intriguing choice for those who delight in tactile sensations and sound. Their classification as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky' reinforces their reputation for delivering a versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy switches offer a rich and sharp sound profile due to their full nylon construction, coupled with the Ly stem that provides exceptional smoothness with each keystroke. This combination makes the Deep Navy an appealing option for users seeking a more pronounced auditory response and a luxurious typing experience. While both switches are linear in nature, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ switches and the HMX Deep Navy switches, significant differences emerge in their sound profiles due to their distinct materials. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, known for producing a pointed and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Deep Navy employs a nylon top housing, which is acknowledged for its deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the CJ's top housing promotes a more vibrant and sharp sound, the Deep Navy’s top housing leans towards a more rounded and mellow auditory output.
Turning to the bottom housings, we find another layer of contrast. The Gateron CJ features a POM bottom housing, which tends to create a deeper and more muted sound. This material is known for enhancing the overall sound experience by providing a unique and pleasing auditory feel. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, maintaining the softness that contributes to a fuller sound profile. Thus, while both switches may produce deeper sound profiles, the CJ's POM contributes to a more subdued sound, whereas the Deep Navy's nylon helps to keep that sound rounded and deep.
Despite these differences in material composition, users can achieve relatively similar typing experiences if they appreciate deeper sound profiles overall. The CJ switch, with its blend of INK and POM, offers a unique sound character, while the Deep Navy's consistent nylon throughout both top and bottom housing creates a cohesive experience. The softer nature of the materials in both switches means that tactile feedback and the bottom-out sound will be pronounced as muted and subdued, emphasizing the feel of the switch more than the sharpness of sound. Thus, even though the specific sound qualities may differ, the overall typing experience can deliver satisfying results for users drawn to richer, deeper sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy is lighter, with an actuation force of only 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This distinction means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gameplay might find the Deep Navy more appealing. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Gateron CJ. Overall, the CJ switch is the heavier option, while the Deep Navy is the lighter one, providing a clear choice depending on a user's preference for actuation sensitivity and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Gateron CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating it is the shorter switch. This 0.4 mm difference can significantly impact the typing experience. Gamers seeking faster response times might lean towards the HMX Deep Navy for its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced feel and deeper keystrokes may find the Gateron CJ’s 4 mm distance more satisfying. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding depth and responsiveness.
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 Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 presents an intriguing acoustic profile. It features a chirpy character that lends a unique squeak to typing, which makes for an interesting auditory experience. Alongside this chirp, its sound is characterized by a neutral tone, allowing it to balance well across various environments, whether for office work or personal use. This balanced sound profile can often lead to an overall low-pitched experience depending on the keyboard and keycaps used. However, without specific descriptors outlining its sound profile, the Deep Navy switch presents an unknown variable here, although its full nylon construction suggests it may offer a distinctive resonance that is yet to be explored.
In the realm of feel, the Gateron CJ switch is described as having a mild experience, which makes it user-friendly and approachable for both newcomers and more experienced typists. This gentler tactile feedback allows users to engage comfortably without overwhelming sensations while typing. The Deep Navy switch's feel is unspecified, which leaves curiosity regarding its smoothness and overall typing sensation. However, it's noted for its silky smoothness due to the Ly stem, which may provide a level of actuation comfort that can be rewarding, potentially comparable to the CJ’s smooth operation.
In summary, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Deep Navy linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ offers a distinctive chirpy sound with neutral tones and a gentle typing experience, the Deep Navy's sound profile remains ambiguous, but its silky smoothness promises a refined touch. Choosing between them may come down to personal aesthetic preferences and tactile sensations, as the similarities in smoothness indicate you will achieve a pleasant typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits should guide your choice. If you enjoy a medium actuation force and a unique auditory experience, the CJ switches could be right for you, especially since they have a delightful combination of high-pitched clacks and a firm yet smooth typing feel. Their chirpy sound profile and thocky qualities make them enjoyable for both casual and more serious typing, whether at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a focus on silky smoothness and have a penchant for rich and sharp sounds, the Deep Navy switches would be a great fit. Their 45-gram bottom-out force appeals to those who favor effortless keystrokes without compromising on sound quality. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so consider what aspects matter most in your own typing style and environment when making your decision.
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