Gateron Box CJ vs. Jerrzi Coral
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Coral switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and Jerrzi Coral are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics for typists seeking a specific typing experience. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift speed and higher-pitched clacks, providing a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. Alternatively, the Coral switch boasts a distinctively crisp typing feel with lower-pitched resonance for a nuanced sophistication. While the Box CJ may appeal to those looking for a clacky and neutral typing experience, the Coral switch is ideal for those seeking a low-pitched and silky feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Coral utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box CJ and the Coral feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. This makes for a more satisfying tactile experience for users who enjoy a deeper sound when typing on their keyboards.
While both switches share similar housing materials with polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, the distribution of these materials within the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials interact within the switches can help users customize their typing experience to suit their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force of the Box CJ is slightly heavier at 45 grams compared to the Coral's 40 grams. This means that the Box CJ may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Additionally, the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Coral's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Box CJ may require a bit more force to press all the way down compared to the Coral. Overall, the Box CJ is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Coral, making it a good choice for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. However, if the Coral's bottom out force is similar to the actuation force, then both switches may provide a similar typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Gateron Box CJ the longer travel distance option compared to the Coral. The 4 mm distance is more traditional, offering a slightly deeper press compared to the 3.7 mm of the Coral. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the shorter 3.7 mm travel distance of the Coral, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the Gateron Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in the travel distance that provides the most comfortable typing or gaming 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 Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral 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, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright experience that can be quite percussive. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is known for its low-pitched resonance, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can greatly enhance the typing experience, with the Box CJ providing a more intense and high-pitched sound while the Coral switch delivers a deeper and softer tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their feel, with the Box CJ catering to a wider audience with its mild characteristics, while the Coral switch offers a more luxurious and slick typing feel.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, it is evident that both switches bring something unique to the table. While the Box CJ excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Coral switch stands out with its low-pitched resonance and silky feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer their own set of advantages that can greatly enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, but rest assured that both switches will deliver top-notch performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, along with the ability to customize lubrication to your liking, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp typing feel with lower-pitched resonance and a balance of sophistication and performance, the Coral switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what attributes you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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