Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Box CJ is ideal for typists looking for rapid response and a smooth push feel, with higher-pitched clacks adding to the typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are tailored for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and a shorter travel distance, enhancing their competitive edge. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the G Pro 3.0 Silver is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant light display. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings mean that both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when utilized in the same manner.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Box CJ features a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing similar sound qualities to the Box CJ. While their top housings may be the same, the differing bottom housings in these switches will result in slight variations in the sound and feel when typing or gaming.
In summary, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share polycarbonate top housings that offer a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting setups. Both switches also feature nylon bottom housings that provide a deeper and fuller sound, albeit with slight variations due to the individual characteristics of the two materials. The combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we can see that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box CJ has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches have the same amount of force required to trigger a keystroke, the Box CJ offers a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better option, making it suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Alternatively, if a more substantial push feel is desired, the Box CJ would be the preferable choice. Both switches offer their own advantages based on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver the shorter of the two switches. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Box CJ is more traditional, providing a deeper press feel compared to the shallower 3.4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Box CJ with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 offers a clacky and higher-pitched sound profile that can be described as sharp and snappy, creating a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile that gives off a deeper and richer tone during key presses, enhancing the overall gaming experience with a more mellow sound. The Box CJ's sound leans towards being more percussive and neutral, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch delivers a thocky and bass-heavy sound that adds an exhilarating element to gaming sessions.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most typists. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sensation, with the Box CJ focusing on a smoother glide while the G Pro 3.0 Silver emphasizes a buttery and silky feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is ideal for typists seeking rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, with a smooth push feel that can be customized with lubrication preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch caters to gamers looking for exceptional value and lightning-fast responsiveness, accompanied by a bassy and thocky sound profile that enhances gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to tailor their typing or gaming experience to their preferences. However, if a user enjoys a clacky sound and a mild typing experience, they can expect similar results with the Box CJ and the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches respectively.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are a typist who values rapid response and a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage with vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so make your decision based on what matters most to you in terms of sound, feel, and overall performance.
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