Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Glimp mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Box CJ stands out for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a medium-light typing experience with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, along with a fairly clacky sound profile. While the Box CJ is more neutral and chirpy, the Glimp switch is creamy and mild. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on whether you prioritize speed and clacks or tactile feedback and a creamy typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Glimp feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches share these characteristics in their top housings, the differences between their bottom housings become apparent.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Box CJ and the Glimp utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housings, the impact of this material on the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary depending on the specific design and construction of each keyboard switch.
Overall, the differences between the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Glimp in terms of housing materials mainly lie in their bottom housings. While both switches offer similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housings, such as a sharp and clear sound profile, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound experience. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can influence the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch, catering to the preferences of individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Gateron Box CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Glimp's 43 grams, while both have a similar bottom out force with the Box CJ at 57 grams and the Glimp at 53 grams. The Box CJ can be considered on the lighter side of medium-light in terms of overall force required, while the Glimp falls into a similar category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions may lean towards the Glimp, while those looking for a bit more resistance might opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying tactile response, making them great options for different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that their travel distances are the same, ensuring that users will experience a similar tactile feedback and typing experience with either switch. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect consistent keypresses and performance, whether they opt for the Gateron Box CJ or the KTT Glimp linear switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force, smoothness, and overall typing feel.
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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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, both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Glimp switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. The individual sound profile may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. When it comes to feel, the Box CJ is known for providing a mild typing experience with an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, thanks to either lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Despite these differences, both switches aim to strike a balance between typing experience and resistance, providing a satisfying and responsive feel for typists. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or KTT Glimp switch, you can expect similar clacky sound profiles and a comfortable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a swift response with higher-pitched clacks and an effortlessly smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that offers a satisfying tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, along with a fairly clacky sound profile, then the Glimp switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and sound in your typing experience.
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