Gateron CJ vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and HMX Gravel both offer distinctive characteristics that cater to varying preferences among users. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its unique auditory profile, featuring higher-pitched clacks that invoke a sense of satisfaction with every keystroke. Its exceptionally smooth action provides a delightful typing experience, categorized as chirpy and low-pitched. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switches are designed for those who prioritize a responsive yet effortless typing feel. With a medium-light actuation force that leans toward the lighter side, they offer an ultra-smooth experience, appealing to enthusiasts seeking precision without added strain. While both switches deliver the smoothness synonymous with linear designs, their unique auditory experiences and actuation forces set them apart. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron CJ and HMX Gravel switches, the materials used for their housings significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as "clacky." This is in contrast to the Gravel, which employs a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharper, crisper sound profile. Both materials allow for a higher-pitched auditory experience, yet the INK blend may yield a slightly different quality due to its unique composition, contributing to a less shrill sound. If comparing sound resonance while using RGB lighting, both switch types should allow for visual effects to shine through effectively, given the translucency of both the CJ’s top housing and the Gravel's polycarbonate.
The bottom housings of these switches showcase another critical difference in material choice, with the CJ utilizing POM and the Gravel relying on nylon. POM is known for generating deeper, more muted sound profiles, while nylon is celebrated for producing a fuller and deeper resonance. This divergence leads to distinct tactile experiences when bottoming out, as the softness of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a rounder effect, while the harder POM retains clarity but ramps up the depth of sound. Consequently, the CJ's muted characteristics may diminish some of the peaks in sound frequency influenced by the sharper top housing, leading to a more balanced auditory experience overall.
When evaluating the combined impact of both housings on typing sensations, it is essential to consider how each material’s properties play off each other. The top housing influences sound upon key release, where the CJ's pointed INK blend will add a unique character, while the Gravel's polycarbonate will deliver a clear, ringing note. Conversely, during keystrokes, the bottom housing has a more significant role, meaning the CJ will exhibit a more pronounced muted sound due to its POM, while the Gravel will favor a fuller sound due to its nylon bottom. Thus, despite their differences, both switches can achieve a varying balance of sound and feel, providing users with unique yet favorable typing experiences depending on their preference for sound clarity and resonance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the HMX Gravel offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the CJ requires more force to activate and to bottom out compared to the Gravel, making the latter a better choice for those who prefer lighter keystrokes for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purposes effectively, the CJ provides a more substantial feel for users who favor heavier switches, while the Gravel's lighter forces cater to those seeking comfort and ease during longer usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional standard and offers a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gravel switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a more responsive option that is increasingly favored by gamers looking for quicker actuation. Users who appreciate the depth and heft of a key press may prefer the CJ switch for its longer travel, while those who prioritize speed and quick responses might opt for the Gravel switch. This difference in travel distance suggests that user preference plays a significant role in choosing between these two options, highlighting the balance between comfort and responsiveness in switch performance.
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 Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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
The Gateron CJ linear switches stand out with their unique sound profile, characterized by higher-pitched clacks that give a distinct, chirpy auditory experience. This switch also offers a blend of neutral, low-pitched, and thocky qualities, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The combination of these acoustic traits results in a rich and satisfying sound that caters to both beginners and seasoned typists. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel linear switches lack a defined sound profile, which leaves their auditory experience largely unknown. This absence of sound descriptors means that the Gravel may produce a more subdued or less characteristic auditory feedback compared to the CJ.
When considering feel, the CJ switch provides a mild typing experience, allowing for a gentle and approachable feedback that is suitable for users who don't prefer overly aggressive switches. This makes it accommodating for long typing sessions or less experienced users. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switches are noted for their exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, promising a responsive and effortless typing experience. While the Gravel appears to offer a refined feel, specific descriptors of its tactile feedback remain unknown, preventing a direct comparison to the CJ's mild texture.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and HMX Gravel linear switches cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The CJ offers a distinctive sound signature and a mild feel that many users may find appealing, while the Gravel is noted for its effortless smoothness yet lacks a defined sound or tactile description. If sound is a high priority, the CJ would be the better choice; however, if you seek a smooth typing experience without specific sound requirements, the Gravel could also serve you well. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying typing results, albeit through different auditory and tactile experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch really depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're drawn to a more tactile and engaging typing experience, the CJ switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, might be the perfect fit for you. Its unique chirpy sound and smooth push feel make it an exciting option, especially if you appreciate the deeper thocky tones and a mildly engaging typing experience. Additionally, the CJ’s distinct auditory characteristics may appeal to those who enjoy a lively feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless experience, the HMX Gravel switch, with its light bottom-out force of 50 grams, offers a refined and seamless typing experience. This switch is designed for users who prioritize responsiveness and efficiency in their keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers alike. Therefore, when considering your needs—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—think through how each switch might complement your typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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