Gateron CJ vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Poro stand out among linear options, each offering a distinctive typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its unique auditory feedback, delivering a chirpy yet thocky sound profile paired with an impressively smooth keypress, making it an enticing choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic signature. In contrast, the HMX Poro excels with its luxurious, silky smoothness and a delightful poppy sound, enhanced by its ultra-light actuation force that many users find irresistible. While the CJ’s character leans towards a neutral but enjoyable clack, the Poro embodies a feathery, bouncy feel that is ideal for speedy typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their own merits; the CJ for users who prefer a touch of audible flair, and the Poro for those seeking an effortless and responsive typing experience. 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
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
3.70 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-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the HMX Poro switches, notable distinctions emerge that influence their sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, delivering a high-pitched, pointed sound that is often described as satisfying and slightly clacky. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a nylon top housing, which is a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow it to absorb sound more effectively than the harder INK blend. As a result, the overall auditory experience with the Poro is characterized by a rounder quality compared to the sharper sound produced by the CJ.
Looking at the bottom housings, both switches continue to display distinct material characteristics that affect their sound and feel. The Gateron CJ employs a POM bottom housing, which is recognized for generating a deeper, more muted sound profile. Furthermore, its unique acoustic properties contribute to a refined bottom-out experience. Conversely, the Poro also opts for a nylon bottom housing, yielding a sound profile that mirrors the fullness of its top housing. This consistency in material choice for both the Poro's top and bottom housings enhances the depth and roundness of the sound during both keypresses and releases.
Ultimately, while the Gateron CJ and HMX Poro switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, both can produce satisfying sound profiles through the distribution of characteristics across their configurations. The CJ combines the sharper sound of its INK blend top with the muted depth of POM at the bottom, creating a complex auditory experience. On the other hand, the Poro's use of nylon throughout offers a consistent, fuller sound. As a result, typists may find that they can achieve relatively similar sound satisfaction from both switches by considering the nuanced impact of each material during key presses and releases, albeit with different tonal qualities and dimensions of sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, notable differences emerge that cater to various user preferences. The Gateron CJ features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience—ideal for those who enjoy a sturdy key feel. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming as it requires less effort to press the keys. While both switches offer distinct characteristics—where the CJ is heavier and the Poro is lighter—they each serve different ergonomic needs: the Poro facilitates a more effortless typing style, whereas the CJ gives more tactile feedback for users who prefer a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gateron CJ switch has a traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, which offers a more substantial feel when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a hearty depth in their key presses. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, catering to users who favor quicker response times often sought by gamers. As a result, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the CJ with its 4.0 mm distance lends itself to a more robust tactile sensation, whereas the Poro’s 3.7 mm distance may be perceived as faster and more responsive. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for depth versus speed.
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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron CJ and the HMX Poro linear switches, the differences are quite pronounced. The CJ switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and unique chirpy characteristic, creating a distinct auditory experience that is somewhat mellow yet has a deeper, thocky quality to it. Users can also expect a neutral sound profile, ideal for both casual use and gaming, as it maintains a moderate actuation force. In contrast, the HMX Poro delivers a poppy, clacky sound that is sharp and crisp, reminiscent of more traditional tactile switches. This makes the Poro a lively choice, but it’s worth noting that the overall sound can still be influenced by the keyboard’s design and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ switch boasts a remarkably smooth push that many find enjoyable and satisfying. While specific descriptors for the CJ’s feel are not provided here, the emphasis on smoothness implies a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch offers a delightful range of sensations. Its bouncy characteristic contributes to a dynamic, robust feedback and gives a spring-like quality that many typists appreciate. Additionally, the creamy and feathery traits create a buttery and light touch when typing. This makes the Poro particularly appealing for long sessions, as its lightly actuated nature reduces finger strain.
In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch cater to distinct auditory and tactile preferences. The CJ presents a unique mix of chirpy and thocky sounds, complemented by its smooth feel, while the Poro excels with a more pronounced clacky sound and a delightful, luxurious typing experience thanks to its bouncy and creamy characteristics. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound profile or tactile feedback, but both switches promise an enjoyable experience for any newcomer exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron CJ and the HMX Poro linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and intended use. If you enjoy a unique auditory experience with a chirpy essence and appreciate the pronounced, rich feedback from each keystroke, the CJ switches with their medium bottom out force of 60 grams will likely suit you well. These are great if you prefer a balance between tactile response and auditory satisfaction, making them ideal for both work and casual typing. Conversely, if you find yourself favoring a lighter touch and are drawn to the effortless glide and bouncy character of your switches, the Poro with its lighter 50-gram actuation force may be your best bet. The Poro's creamy and feathery feel results in reduced finger fatigue, making it perfect for extended typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a typing experience resonate most with you, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard adventure.
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