Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, with the Durock Daybreak, also a linear switch, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift speed and high-pitched clacks, appealing to typists who value rapid response and smooth gliding keystrokes. On the other hand, the Daybreak offers a heftier typing experience with a solid 67g actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial touch. Additionally, the Daybreak stands out for its quiet operation, making it suitable for quiet workspaces. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Daybreak both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Both switches offer similar sound profiles and are popular choices for those who prioritize sound quality and visual customization in their keyboards.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, while the Daybreak also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users. The similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches means that they will both offer a similar sound profile and typing feel, showcasing the classic qualities of nylon in switch construction.
With different top and bottom housing materials, the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Daybreak split the qualities each material brings to the switch between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more when typing and bottoming out keys, affecting the overall sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Both switches offer a balance of housing materials to create a unique typing experience that appeals to users seeking a specific sound profile and feel in their keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Daybreak's unknown actuation force, making the former more suitable for those who prefer a lighter keystroke. On the other hand, the Daybreak has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Daybreak provides a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required to fully press the key. Overall, the Box CJ offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer periods of typing or gaming, while the Daybreak offers a heavier push feel, catering to those who prefer a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Daybreak has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being on the longer side and the Daybreak being slightly shorter. Gamers looking for quick response times may prefer the Daybreak due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on 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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Box CJ's clacky sound may be more satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Daybreak's muted sound may be preferable for those who need a quieter typing experience in shared or noise-sensitive environments.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch offers a polished and refined typing experience, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Those who prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing feel may lean towards the Box CJ, while those who prefer a polished and refined typing experience may prefer the Daybreak switch.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ provides a clacky sound and a mild typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness, the Daybreak offers a muted sound and a polished typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer quality options for enthusiasts looking to customize their mechanical keyboards to their exacting standards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a swift response and higher-pitched clacks for a more rapid typing experience, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a lighter touch with the option to customize lubrication, the Box CJ is a great fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with quiet operation and a polished finish for smooth key travel, the Daybreak switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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