Gateron CJ vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique experiences for users. The CJ is praised for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, making it a great option for those looking for a linear switch that is 'chirpy', 'neutral', and 'thocky'. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those who prefer a switch that is 'bouncy', 'clacky', and 'creamy'. While these general descriptions give a good starting point for choosing between the two switches, diving deeper into their individual characteristics will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
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
3.40 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
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
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron CJ and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is satisfying for those who enjoy a thinner and sharper sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, more resonant sound due to the stiffness of the material. While both provide distinct sound profiles, the CJ's INK blend leans towards a thinner sound, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate offers a clearer and crisper sound overall.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the CJ's POM material delivers a deeper and more muted sound profile that adds a unique feel to typing on the switches. In contrast, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite their differences, both materials bring their own qualities to the table, with POM offering a deeper sound and nylon providing a fuller sound experience.
While the housing materials for the Gateron CJ and the HMX Xinhai differ in their composition, both switches demonstrate how the top and bottom housings can impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Whether it's the INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing of the CJ or the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai, each switch showcases how the combination of materials can create a tailored typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. The CJ requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Xinhai only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. This means that the CJ will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Xinhai will be easier to press for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The CJ switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai switch. The 4 mm travel of the CJ switch provides a more traditional depth feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying key press. On the other hand, the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Xinhai switch is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a deeper key press with the CJ switch or a quicker response time with the Xinhai switch.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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 chirpy and high-pitched clack with a smooth push feel, setting it apart with its unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination. Both switches offer a distinct sound profile that will cater to different preferences, with the CJ having a neutral and low-pitched option while the Xinhai leans towards a brighter and crisp sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The Xinhai linear switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The CJ excels in providing a safe middle-ground typing feel, while the Xinhai offers a more dynamic and luxurious tactile experience for those who enjoy a bouncier and creamier feel.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique and enjoyable qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the chirpy and smooth CJ for a balanced sound and feel or the clacky and creamy Xinhai for a more dynamic and luxurious typing experience. With either switch, users can expect a high level of performance and satisfaction, as both switches offer a refined and precise performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the characteristics of each to determine which best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched clack sound with an impossibly smooth push feel, then the CJ switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, then the Xinhai switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique attributes of the CJ or the sophisticated performance of the Xinhai. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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