Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Darling, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Gateron Box CJ is known for its swift speed and smooth push feel, providing typists with higher-pitched clacks and a neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Darling offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, producing a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. While the Box CJ is ideal for those seeking rapid response and customization options with lubrication, the Darling appeals to individuals looking for a satisfying tactile and auditory feedback experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 KTT Darling feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches offers similar benefits.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Box CJ utilizes nylon, while the KTT Darling also opts for a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, the impact of the nylon on the typing experience may vary slightly based on other factors such as stem design and keycap material.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Darling contributes to a distinctive typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings provide a balance between crispness and depth in sound, showcasing the unique characteristics of each housing material. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience from both switches due to their shared housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch have very similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ is slightly heavier at 57 grams compared to the Darling's 53 grams. This means that the Box CJ will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down, while the Darling will offer a lighter touch overall. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter touch of the Darling for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the added weight of the Box CJ for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Darling linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ linear switch. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Box CJ may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 is known for its higher-pitched clacks, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, offering an engaging blend of tactile and auditory feedback. Both switches fall under the category of clacky switches, with the Box CJ leaning towards a chirpy sound profile while the Darling delivers a more resonant acoustic experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild typing experience that most users would find approachable and comfortable. In contrast, the KTT Darling switch offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, giving users a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. While the Box CJ focuses on smoothness and ease of typing, the Darling emphasizes a bouncy and lively feel, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Darling linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ is best suited for those seeking rapid response with a higher-pitched clacky sound and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Darling switch provides a more chewy and bouncy feel with a resonant, high-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences in sound and typing sensation, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct qualities that will enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that each switch offers. If you prioritize rapid response, smooth push feel, and higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial with a pronounced bounciness and a resonant, high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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