Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference in typing experience. The Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Cliff switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. The Box CJ, a linear switch, is celebrated for its quick response and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers and fast typists who crave speed and efficiency. With its higher-pitched clacks and unlubed design, it presents a unique tactile experience that is either raw and expressive or a perfect canvas for custom tuning. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch delivers a medium level of tactility, boasting a pronounced bump that enhances the typing experience with a crisp auditory feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more deliberate and engaging feel with each keystroke. While both switches provide engaging typing experiences, their vastly different characteristics make them suited for different user 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Cliff, one can observe that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality leads to similarly crisp and higher-pitched sound profiles. The advantages brought by polycarbonate—such as its stiffness that creates a clear and resonant sound—are evident in both switches. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal when illuminated. Thus, when considering header aesthetics and sound clarity, users can expect comparable results from both switches, largely due to shared material properties that optimize both visuals and auditory feedback.
However, a significant difference arises in the bottom housing material, where the Box CJ and the Bsun Cliff both utilize nylon. This choice imbues each switch with a deeper, fuller sound profile, which is attributed to nylon's softer composition that absorbs sound waves more effectively. The unique characteristics of nylon contribute to a rounder sound when the switch is bottomed out, fostering a more tactile typing experience. Despite both switches sharing this bottom housing material, individual experiences may vary depending on the overall design and mechanical structure of each switch, but the core sound characteristics will remain consistent.
When pressing down on either switch, the combined effects of both top and bottom housings come into play. The polycarbonate top significantly influences the sound released on release, while the nylon bottom governs the bottom-out sound and overall feel during key presses. This distribution of sound qualities provides a unique typing experience, with the sharper clarity from polycarbonate and the warmth from nylon working in tandem. Consequently, while the Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Cliff switches feature similar materials in their top and bottom housings, the nuanced characteristics of each housing interact to deliver a well-rounded performance tailored for various typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff exhibits a lighter feel with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This significant difference indicates that typists or gamers who prefer lighter switches would likely favor the Cliff for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. On the other hand, the Box CJ's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial typing experience, which might be preferable for users who appreciate a stronger push feel while typing. Overall, the Bsun Cliff is the lighter option, making it more suited for those seeking ease of use, while the Gateron Box CJ appeals to those who appreciate a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, a notable difference emerges: the Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cliff has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Box CJ offers a more traditional and pronounced keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Cliff makes it more responsive and potentially better suited for fast-paced gaming, appealing to those who favor quicker key acts. Therefore, if you're aiming for a more hearty depth in your switch experience, the Gateron Box CJ would be the preferable choice, while the Bsun Cliff caters to those who prioritize faster response times with its shorter 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 Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is characterized by its clacky, crispy, and slightly chirpy acoustic qualities. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a bright and percussive auditory feedback that typists often find satisfying. The higher-pitched clacks add a dynamic element to the typing experience, making it suitable for both home and office settings. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch lacks specific sound descriptors in this context, leaving its audio qualities undefined. Therefore, potential users should be aware that while the Gateron Box CJ excites with its lively sound, the Cliff's acoustic signature remains a mystery.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ offers a notably smooth typing experience, described as an "impossibly smooth push" that glides effortlessly with each keystroke. This smoothness is complemented by its mild sensation, providing an accessible typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. In contrast, the tactile feedback of the Cliff switch is also not explicitly defined, which poses uncertainties regarding its feel. Therefore, while the Box CJ clearly excels in delivering a smooth, pleasant typing experience, the tactile quality of the Cliff switch remains unspecified, preventing a direct comparison.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Box CJ stands out with its vibrant sound and smooth typing feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch lacks specific information on both sound and feel. If you are drawn to the clackiness and smooth action of the Box CJ, it may be a more appealing choice, especially for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing experience. The unknown qualities of the Cliff mean that, while it might offer a different tactile experience, potential users may need to try it themselves to fully understand its performance. Thus, for anyone looking to make an informed decision, the Box CJ presents a robust choice, while the Cliff could warrant further exploration.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch boils down to your personal typing preferences and what you value most in your keyboard experience. If you prioritize a swift, smooth, and responsive typing feel, and enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, the Box CJ might be your best bet. Its medium-light actuation force of 57 grams makes it suitable for both gaming and typing, especially if you appreciate an unlubed feel that can be customized to your liking. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a softer actuation force of 45 grams and seek a more tactile feedback with a crisp sound, then the Bsun Cliff switch could be the ideal choice for you. Its medium tactility offers a more engaging typing experience without overwhelming your fingers, making it an excellent option for longer typing sessions or office use. Ultimately, both switches serve different needs, and your decision should be guided by whether you lean towards speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and lighter actuation.
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