Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its unique combination of a smooth, effortless key press and a higher-pitched clack, catering to typists who appreciate both rapid response and auditory feedback. With its unlubed design, it offers a raw expression of smoothness while allowing customization for those who wish to tailor it to their preferences. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is known for its exceptionally light actuation force of 28 grams, enabling quick and effortless keystrokes that typists might find beneficial for long typing sessions. Its bright sound profile produces a crisp, high-pitched tone, adding a delightful acoustic element to the typing experience. While both switches provide a linear feel, their distinct characteristics appeal to different preferences, making it essential to consider their unique attributes when making a choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
28g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
34g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches share a similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate, which fundamentally influences the acoustic profile of each switch. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which allows for a more resonant sound that enhances clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through effectively. As a result, users can expect a similar bright sound signature when typing on both switches due to their equivalent top housing materials.
In contrast, the bottom housing of these two switches diverges in terms of acoustic qualities. Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Chiikawa - 28g make use of nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound differently than polycarbonate, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typed upon. This difference is particularly important because the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Consequently, while both switches provide a cohesive sound when pressed due to the shared nylon bottom, the nuances of the sound experience may vary from one switch to another based on other factors like the overall design and assembly.
Overall, the sound performance when typing on both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches should exhibit a consistent clarity and brightness due to their matching polycarbonate top housings, while the depth and roundness of sound will be shaped by the nylon bottom housings. This synergy between housing materials allows users to experience a balanced auditory feedback, with the top housing elevating clarity and brightness and the bottom housing enhancing the fullness and depth of each keystroke. As a result, keyboard enthusiasts can expect a similarly satisfying typing experience across these two switch options.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g has a significantly lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams. This makes the Chiikawa switch the lighter option, which is beneficial for users who prefer a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Meanwhile, the Box CJ provides a heavier push feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter and less fatiguing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g is the clear choice, while the Box CJ will satisfy those who prefer a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and may provide a satisfying depth for users who enjoy a hearty feel when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. This shorter distance can deliver a more responsive experience but may feel too abrupt for some users. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress, the Box CJ is the better choice. However, if you're inclined toward a snappier keystroke, the Chiikawa - 28g offers a slight advantage with its reduced travel distance.
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 Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces a distinctive profile characterized by a sharp, clacky tone. Its sound is crisp and bright, lending a percussive quality to each keystroke that can be quite satisfying for typists who enjoy a prominent acoustic feedback. The addition of a slight chirpy aspect introduces a unique charm to the auditory experience, making it appealing for those who appreciate lively sounds while typing. In contrast, the sound profile of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is not detailed in the provided information, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat unknown. However, given that it is noted for a bright sound, one might anticipate a similarly clear and punchy auditory experience, albeit with less emphasis on the clacking and chirping elements present in the Box CJ.
The feel of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as smooth and mild. It offers a gentle typing experience that balances well between responsive feedback and comfort, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned users. This smoothness is particularly appealing as it glides effortlessly during use, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Chiikawa - 28g’s tactile qualities are not specified, which leaves its feel in question; however, given its very light actuation force, it is reasonable to infer that it might provide a light and responsive touch, attracting users who prefer less resistance while typing.
In summary, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switches present intriguing options for typists, each with unique characteristics. The Box CJ stands out with its pronounced clacking sound profile and mild feel, delivering a responsive and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Chiikawa's sound and tactile feedback remains less defined but suggests a lighter touch that could match the swift responsiveness favored in the gaming community. Our understanding of these switches showcases how the Gateron Box CJ might be better suited for users who enjoy audible feedback and a smooth experience, while the Chiikawa could cater to those preferring a featherlight interaction. Regardless of their distinctions, both can offer rewarding results tailored to individual preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a moderately weighted switch that provides a satisfying balance of sound and feel with smooth keystrokes, the Box CJ would be a fantastic option for you. Its clacky and mildly chirpy sound profile, combined with a smooth push and the ability to be customized further through lubrication, makes it versatile for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light actuation force and a more responsive switch that delivers a bright, crisp sound, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. It caters well to those who enjoy rapid typing sessions or gaming at high speeds, offering a delightful tactile experience with minimal fatigue. Ultimately, the right switch for you hinges on whether you prioritize a more grounded, smooth experience with the Box CJ or a lightweight, quick-response typing experience with the Chiikawa - 28g.
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