Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of each switch. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift speed and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly excellence and high-pitched clacky sound profile, offering a bouncy typing experience. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy', the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is classified as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Resonant'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your preference for speed and smoothness or budget-friendliness and sound profile. 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
50g
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
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow lies in the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer similar sound profiles and visual appeal when it comes to their top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing having a significant impact on the overall sound of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly varied typing experience in terms of sound, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the overall sound when typing on these switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch are different in terms of weight. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience compared to the medium-heavy typing feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Box CJ would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keystroke feel and feedback. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch, you can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is best characterized by its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, giving typists a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp sound when typing. Both switches provide distinct sound qualities, with the Box CJ leaning towards a clacky nature and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a higher-pitched resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is noted for its impossibly smooth push feel, offering a glide-like typing experience that feels effortless. This switch falls into the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience that many users find approachable. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch type is known for reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing users to glide their fingers across the keys with ease.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth push feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow delivers a higher-pitched sound and a polished, creamy typing experience. Depending on the individual preferences of the user, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different auditory and tactile preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a clacky, smooth feel or a higher-pitched, polished typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize rapid response and a smooth push feel with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, then the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile and a polished, creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks or a bouncy type feel and a more refined typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a personalized keyboarding experience.
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