Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, is designed for those seeking rapid response and smooth, high-pitched clacks during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, offers a gentle bump that enhances typing flow without overpowering it. While the Box CJ provides an unlubed option for customization, the G Pro Brown ensures a delightful tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch and enhanced RGB lighting experience. Deciding between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style preferences; 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a stylish touch to the overall aesthetic of the switches.
While the top housings of the Box CJ and G Pro 3.0 Brown are the same, their bottom housings differ in material, with the Box CJ featuring a nylon bottom housing and the G Pro 3.0 Brown also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon housings, providing a unique tactile experience for users of both switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Box CJ and the G Pro 3.0 Brown offer a well-rounded typing experience with a combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The split qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switches ensure that users feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key and experience the sound influenced by the top housing when releasing a key. This creates a dynamic typing experience that caters to both sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, which requires 55 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown needs 63 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier bottom out force than the Box CJ. Both switches fall in the medium-light to medium category, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box CJ may be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that you will get similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback when using either of these switches. The travel distance of 4mm for both switches allows for a consistent typing experience, ensuring that each key press is registered smoothly and accurately. Having the same travel distance makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards equipped with these switches without having to adjust to a different feel or key travel distance. Overall, the similar travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch provides users with a reliable and consistent typing 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 clacky and higher-pitched sound that provides a sharp and snappy feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback without overpowering your typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on your personal preference for sound.
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 most users will find approachable and enjoyable. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch gives a gentle bump sensation designed to enhance typing flow without causing finger fatigue. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown may appeal more to those looking for a tactile feedback during typing.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound with a smooth push feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown gives a medium-high pitch sound with a gentle bump sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a linear switch with higher-pitched sound or a tactile switch with a subtle bump, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and performance that can elevate your typing sessions to new heights.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and usage. If you prioritize speed, smoothness, and a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Box CJ may suit your needs. Its medium-light bottom out force and swift response make it ideal for those seeking rapid typing experiences. On the other hand, if you value a subtle tactile sensation, gentle bump feedback, and easy-to-press keys with a medium bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown could be the better choice. Its budget-friendly nature and RGB lighting compatibility make it a practical and quality option that won't compromise your typing flow. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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