Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Dolphin stand out as excellent options. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the attributes of the CJ lineage, resulting in a switch designed for rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. Typists will appreciate the impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, with the option to customize the lubrication to their liking. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin is a linear switch that offers a silent typing experience, making it ideal for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphin provides a substantial feel that balances precision with a satisfying press. Both switches have their unique qualities and are categorized differently in terms of sound and 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Dolphin feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Despite both switches sharing this housing material, the specific design and construction of each switch may slightly alter the sound profile experienced by the user.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Box CJ utilizes nylon while the Durock Dolphin also utilizes nylon. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable in terms of sound when compared to the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Dolphin showcase the importance of both top and bottom housing in determining the sound profile of a switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper sound, the differences in bottom housing material highlight the nuances in sound that can be achieved. Whether it be the crisper sound of the Gateron Box CJ with its nylon bottom housing or the fuller sound of the Durock Dolphin with its nylon bottom housing, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Dolphin linear switch, which does not specify an actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is 57 grams, while the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making the Dolphin switch slightly heavier in this aspect. The Box CJ offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Dolphin provides a medium typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Box CJ switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Dolphin switch for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we see that the Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dolphin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being the longer option of the two. Gamers who prefer quicker response times may lean towards the Dolphin with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come 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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin 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 provides a clacky and higher-pitched typing experience, giving off sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ being more lively and percussive, while the Dolphin provides a softer and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a smooth and effortless push feel, resulting in a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The Durock Dolphin switch, on the other hand, is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that allows for reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and precision, the Dolphin would be the preferred choice, whereas the Box CJ provides a gentler typing experience with its glide-like feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch with the Durock Dolphin linear switch, sound and feel play a significant role in determining the right choice for each individual. The Box CJ excels in producing clacky and higher-pitched sounds with an impossibly smooth feel, perfect for those who seek rapid response and enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch provides a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, ideal for office environments or for those who prefer a more polished and refined typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as both offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different users.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize speed, a smooth typing experience, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in a shared space or prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dolphin switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal typing style and the noise levels you can tolerate in your workspace.
Mentioned in this article
