Gateron Box CJ vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh Box Navy offer unique typing experiences for users to consider. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the CJ lineage attributes with the swift characteristics of speed switches, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ makes typing effortless, and the unlubed design allows enthusiasts to customize the lubrication to their liking. On the other hand, the Box Navy is a clicky switch that offers a heavy typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. Its sound signature and tactility make it perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy and stiff typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
90g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box Navy, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material choice results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The clear translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches differ, with the Box CJ featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Box Navy also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their housing material. While both switches benefit from the sound-enhancing properties of nylon, the bottom housing's impact is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box Navy share similarities in their top housing material choice of polycarbonate, resulting in a similar sound profile. However, the differences in their bottom housing materials, both being nylon, offer distinct typing experiences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch influence the overall sound and feel of typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it heavier. Both switches have a significant difference in bottom out force, with the Box CJ having a bottom out force of 57 grams and the Box Navy having a bottom out force of 90 grams. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Box Navy offers a more substantial and heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Box CJ would be a better option. Conversely, users who enjoy a stronger push feel and more pronounced typing feedback may find the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Box Navy more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch. The Box CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Box Navy is on the shallower side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may opt for the longer travel distance of the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ offers a clacky and neutral typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. This sound profile is crisp and bright, perfect for those who prefer a clean and percussive typing sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy provides a more resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The sound of the Box Navy is immersive and sharp, giving off a satisfying clicky sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its gentle characteristics. Typists can expect an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy switch delivers a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with a firm actuation force. Typists will feel a distinct and reactive sensation with each keypress, creating an immersive typing experience that is both satisfying and stimulating.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh Box Navy switches offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ provides a clacky and neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience, the Box Navy offers a resonant and crunchy sound with a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother and gentler typing feel or a more tactile and clicky feedback, both switches are designed to cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy typing experience with a distinct tactile feedback and a crunchy sound profile, the Box Navy switch would be more suitable. Make your decision based on whether you value speed and smoothness or heftiness and tactility in your typing experience. Each switch offers a unique set of characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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