Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CAP Anniversary both offer unique features to consider. The Box CJ is praised for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, catering to typists looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. While the Box CJ is described as 'clacky', 'mild', 'neutral', and 'chirpy', the CAP Anniversary is labeled as 'snappy', 'creamy', and 'polished'. Each switch has its distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CAP Anniversary feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material.
On the other hand, the Box CJ and the CAP Anniversary differ in their bottom housing material, with the Box CJ utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the CAP Anniversary also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Despite different bottom housing materials, the nylon utilized in both switches contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CAP Anniversary play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in each switch results in a different tactile experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. With careful consideration of these housing materials, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing and sound characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing. In contrast, the CAP Anniversary offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier and more pronounced feel with each keystroke. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users' preferences for either a lighter or heavier typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and actuation point with both switches. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Gateron CAP Anniversary, you can expect a travel distance of 4 mm from each.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 linear switch is best described as having a clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy noises when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is unknown. This means that if sound is a crucial factor for your typing experience, the Box CJ may be the preferred choice if you enjoy a crisp and percussive sound when typing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Conversely, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is described as having a snappy and possibly creamy or polished feel. If you prefer a switch with a responsiveness that makes you feel alive while typing, the CAP Anniversary may be the better option for you.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks, while the CAP Anniversary focuses on exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and minimal wobble. If you aim for rapid response and a clacky sound, the Box CJ is the way to go. Alternatively, if you desire exceptional smoothness with a possibly creamy or polished feel, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clack sound, along with a smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the better option for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch that allows for customization of lubrication, the Box CJ provides that flexibility. On the other hand, if you are looking for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch, with its unique stem design, may be the more suitable choice. Furthermore, if you value a snappy and creamy typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the CAP Anniversary switch offers these qualities. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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