Gateron Box CJ vs. Zuoce Bubblegum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Bubblegum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Bubblegum mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they both offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, is designed for those who prioritize rapid response and smooth typing experience. With its higher-pitched clacks and unlubed design allowing for customization, it appeals to typists seeking a precise yet customizable feel. On the other hand, the Zuoce Bubblegum switch, also a linear option, stands out for its striking colorways and satisfyingly clacky typing experience. This switch is perfect for keyboard enthusiasts looking to add a touch of innovation to their setup. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM+SL
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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 the Zuoce Bubblegum differ in their housing materials, with the Box CJ featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Bubblegum has a POM top housing. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Bubblegum's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique typing experience. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate provides a brighter and clearer sound, while the POM offers a deeper and softer tone.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Bubblegum utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, the impact of the material on the overall typing experience may vary based on the design and structure of each switch. The nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Bubblegum showcase the different sound profiles that can be achieved through varying housing materials. While the Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting, the Bubblegum's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted typing experience. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a fuller sound profile with their sound-absorbing properties. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Bubblegum switch lighter in both categories compared to the Box CJ switch. The lighter actuation force of the Bubblegum switch may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and faster typing experience, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Box CJ switch may be better suited for users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Bubblegum switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Box CJ. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Bubblegum switch may be more appealing. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Box CJ with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired 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 Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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, both the Gateron Box CJ and Zuoce Bubblegum switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound during typing sessions. The unique acoustic signature of the Box CJ switches, with hints of chirpiness, sets them apart from more neutral options. On the other hand, the Bubblegum switches offer a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, highlighting their focus on providing an engaging auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switches are noted for their impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing typists with a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. In contrast, the Zuoce Bubblegum switches offer a bouncy sensation, giving keys a spring-like or elastic feedback that adds a sense of liveliness to keystrokes. This difference in feel between the two switches caters to users with varying preferences in typing experiences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and Zuoce Bubblegum switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Box CJ switches provide a smoother typing experience with a hint of chirpy sound, the Bubblegum switches offer a bouncier feel that adds an extra layer of feedback to keystrokes. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the more neutral and smoother Box CJ switches or the lively and bouncy Bubblegum switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct characteristics that will result in an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, rapid response typing experience with a higher-pitched clack, the Box CJ is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a satisfyingly clacky typing experience, and a bouncy, spring-like feel, the Bubblegum switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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