Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Box CJ and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, both linear switches offering unique features. The Box CJ is renowned for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U boasts a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, a softer, bassier sound signature, and a 22mm spring for added bounciness, appealing to those who appreciate a traditional typing experience. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Hyacinth V2U falls under 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued'. Each switch offers its own unique advantages, but ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetics of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on either switch.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Gateron Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This quality in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience of each switch, adding a unique touch to the sound and feel of pressing down on the keys.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of both the Gateron Box CJ and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U provides a balance of sharpness and depth to the sound profile, offering users a versatile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them light to the touch when triggering a keystroke. However, the Box CJ has a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the Hyacinth V2U's 52 grams, making the Box CJ slightly heavier when it comes to pressing the key all the way down. This difference in bottom out force may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. For users who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, both switches offer similar actuation forces, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch with a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of the key press, with the Gateron Box CJ potentially feeling slightly more substantial than the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box 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 Box CJ for $5.35.
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 Box CJ switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, giving typists a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch offers a softer, bassier sound signature, thanks to its nylon construction, providing a more subdued typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Box CJ offering a more percussive tone while the Hyacinth V2U delivers a mellower auditory feedback. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the sharpness of the Box CJ or the softer tone of the Hyacinth V2U.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is praised for its impossibly smooth push feel, offering a glide-like typing experience that is approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch boasts a fuller travel distance and a bouncier feel due to its 22mm spring. The V2U switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel, adding to its silky typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother typing feel with the Box CJ or enjoy the added bounce and refinement of the Hyacinth V2U, both switches provide different tactile experiences that cater to varying typing preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience, ideal for those seeking rapid response and higher-pitched sound feedback. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2U offers a softer, bassier sound signature and a bouncier typing feel, catering to typists who prefer a fuller travel distance and added springiness. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches promise quality performance and can deliver satisfying results depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a rapid response with higher-pitched clacks and smooth gliding feel, the Box CJ is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a fuller travel distance, bounciness, and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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