Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and the BSUN Pine are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics for different typing preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the attributes of the CJ lineage with the swift characteristics of speed switches, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. It offers an impossibly smooth push feel that can either be enjoyed as is or customized with lubrication. On the other hand, the BSUN Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action for those who appreciate direct tactility. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Pine is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Pine switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may offer different sound profiles based on their other components. On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder noise when typing on the switches.
Despite utilizing the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Pine switches may offer distinct typing experiences due to the design and construction of each switch. The different qualities of the nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting how the switches sound and feel when pressed. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, even though they share similar housing materials, the overall typing experience of each switch may vary.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Pine switches share polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, they may provide different typing experiences based on how these materials interact with other components of the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a sharper sound profile, especially when coupled with RGB lighting, while the softness of nylon absorbs more sound for a fuller typing experience. Understanding how these materials interact within the switches can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the right switch for their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch showcase some differences in weight. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams as well, making them equally light in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, whereas the Pine needs 65 grams, making the Pine the heavier option. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions, while the Pine offers a medium-heavy feel, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push during typing. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can find the right balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it is evident that the Box CJ has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Pine's 3.4 mm. The longer travel distance of the Box CJ may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing. On the other hand, the Pine's shorter travel distance can be advantageous for gamers or individuals seeking a faster response time. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, with the Box CJ catering to those who enjoy a more substantial key press and the Pine appealing to those who prioritize quick and responsive typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and typing 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 Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 is known for producing a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, while the Bsun Pine switch's sound profile is unknown. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the CJ switch leaning towards a higher-pitched clack and the Pine switch remaining a mystery in this regard. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, users may achieve different sound qualities with each switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Box CJ switch is described as offering a mild typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, emphasizing smoothness and ease of use. Conversely, the Bsun Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a more pronounced and invigorating typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, with the CJ switch focusing more on smoothness and the Pine switch on direct, responsive tactility.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch offer contrasting yet equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ switch delivers a clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, the Pine switch provides a sharp tactile bump and a quick bottom-out sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can select either switch to cater to their specific typing needs. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that make them stand out in the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values speed and responsiveness in your typing experience, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, this switch is designed for those seeking rapid response and a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sharp tactile bump and distinctive feedback, the Bsun Pine tactile switch would be more suitable for you. The Pine switch offers a quick bottom-out and a no-nonsense tactility that is favored by many enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preference for key feel and sound.
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