Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CJ mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the CJ offers a distinct presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. While the Box CJ falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CJ, we can see a difference in the top housing material used. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp. Both materials provide unique sound profiles, with the polycarbonate being more resonant and the INK blend offering a satisfying clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Box CJ utilizes nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the CJ uses a POM bottom housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side while being relatively more muted. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron CJ will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ will provide a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the INK blend top housing of the CJ offers a more clacky and satisfying sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the CJ creates a more muted sound on the deeper side. Whichever switch you choose, both housing materials have their own unique characteristics that will impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron CJ linear switch's 50 grams. On the other hand, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams as opposed to the CJ's heavier 60 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it easier to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. In contrast, the CJ switch offers a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing performance with either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, it's evident that both switches have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same level of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and the tactile feedback provided by both switches will be virtually indistinguishable. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance, making them suitable options for users looking for a reliable and responsive keyboard switch.
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 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 CJ for $5.35.
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 switch is known for its clacky and neutral attributes, producing a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch has a chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, with a unique squeak and a more bass-heavy, mellow tone. Both switches provide a distinctive auditory experience, but users can expect higher-pitched clacks from the Box CJ and a deeper, rich sound from the CJ. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and CJ switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Typists can expect an impossibly smooth push feel from the Box CJ, while the CJ delivers a feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The smoothness and gentle feel of both switches contribute to an enjoyable typing experience, catering to those who prefer a less pronounced tactile response.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and CJ switches each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Box CJ offers a clacky and smooth typing experience, the CJ provides a chirpy and mellow sound profile. Both switches are mild in feel, ensuring a typing experience that is comfortable and approachable. Overall, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches, with slight differences in sound and feel that cater to individual preferences. With either switch, typists can achieve similar results in terms of smoothness and enjoyment, with the choice ultimately boiling down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you desire a switch that offers rapid response and a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, the CJ may be the way to go. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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