Gateron Box CJ vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Kailh Box White clicky switch, it's important to consider the distinct features that set them apart. The Box CJ is renowned for its smooth and rapid response, making it ideal for those seeking swift typing experiences with higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Box White offers maximum audio feedback with a satisfying crunch and accented tactility. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Box White falls into the 'Resonant', 'High-pitched', 'Crunchy', and 'Polished' categories. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
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
The Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The similarities in top housing material ensure that both switches produce similar sound profiles and are visually appealing when used with RGB lighting.
Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Box CJ and Box White differ in their bottom housing materials. The Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Box White's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The variation in bottom housing material between the switches influences the overall sound profile and typing experience, making each switch unique in its acoustics and feel.
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh Box White, it's important to consider how the differences in their housing materials impact the typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the variations in their bottom housing materials contribute to differences in sound profile and feel. The split qualities between top and bottom housing materials mean that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. These nuances in housing materials highlight the intricate design and engineering considerations that go into creating a unique typing experience with each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, we see that the Box CJ is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Box White is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Box White. Both switches offer a medium level of resistance, but the Box White requires a bit more force to activate and bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Box CJ, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more robust and satisfying feel when typing. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of a percussive tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch provides a resonant, high-pitched sound with a crunchy feel, similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the CJ being more clacky and the White being more resonant and high-pitched.
When it comes to feel, the Box CJ switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CJ switch focuses on smoothness while the White switch focuses on refined and sleek key presses.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The CJ switch excels in providing a clacky sound and a smooth push feel, making it suitable for those seeking rapid response and a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the White switch delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound with a crunchy feel, ideal for users who desire maximum audio feedback and a polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the CJ offering a more rapid and smooth feel while the White provides a more detailed and resonant sound profile.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you require a swift response and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched clack, the Box CJ is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum audio feedback with a crunchy sound and a polished typing feel, the Box White may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal typing preference and whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or auditory feedback and tactile feel. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one best suits your typing style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
