Gateron Box CJ vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider the unique characteristics that set each switch apart. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift speed switches that offer typists a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is favored by budget-conscious enthusiasts for its poppy, clacky sound and smooth tactile feel right out of the box. While the Box CJ provides a customizable experience with its unlubed design, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile 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
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
3.30 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
20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who enjoy a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic of nylon in the bottom housing of switches contributes to a more satisfying typing experience, particularly for users who prefer switches with a quieter and more muted sound.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their construction, the impact of each material may differ based on the top and bottom housing configuration. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as nylon, will play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Conversely, the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing will be more prominent in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 60 grams, making it slightly heavier for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a medium-light feel overall, but the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may feel slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Box CJ, while those looking for a bit more resistance may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, we find that the Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Box CJ the longer option of the two. The Box CJ's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional key press feel, whereas the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 3.3 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower key press. Gamers may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Box CJ. In general, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular for their quick response times, but the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a clacky, sharp, and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, indicating that the sound may be more generic or not as distinctive as the clacky sound of the Box CJ.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience with qualities that fall into a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is identified as easy-to-press, featuring gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate, which enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. The Cream Yellow Pro switch also has descriptors like feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, suggesting a range of qualities from lightness to responsiveness to smoothness in typing sensation.
Taking into consideration the information provided, it is clear that the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Typists seeking a sharper, clacky sound with a smoother push feel may prefer the Box CJ, while those looking for a combination of poppy sound and creamy tactile feel may opt for the Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, you should go for the Box CJ if you prioritize a rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, along with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. This switch is also a great choice if you enjoy customizing the lubrication to your preferences. On the other hand, opt for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a combination of a poppy, clacky sound and a decent smoothness right out of the box. This switch provides a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when making your decision between these two switches.
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