Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Glory Red mechanical keyboard switches, both of which fall within the category of linear switches, it’s clear that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Box CJ, recognized for its exceptionally smooth feel and higher-pitched clacks, is ideal for typists who crave rapid response and a tactile yet less obstructive feedback. The unlubed nature of the Box CJ invites users to customize their experience, adding an element of personal touch for enthusiasts. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red provides a lighter keystroke and a comfortable travel distance, making it an appealing choice for those who seek a more relaxed typing experience without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches present distinct advantages depending on whether one values the customizable, swift feedback of the Box CJ or the straightforward, pleasant feel of the Glory Red. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Glory Red, a notable difference can be observed in the composition of their top housings. The Box CJ utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness and clarity. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a crisper auditory experience. In contrast, the Glory Red features a nylon top housing, which is typically softer and absorbs sound more effectively. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a rounder auditory experience that differs significantly from the Box CJ. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, providing a visually engaging typing experience, while the nylon's lack of translucence may not showcase lighting as vividly.
Interestingly, both the Box CJ and Glory Red share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality leads to a similar experience in the sound profile when the key is bottomed out, as nylon is known for producing a dulled and fuller sound. The softer properties of nylon allow for sound absorption, dampening the audio and providing a more muted overall feel. Since both switches utilize nylon on the bottom, their bottom-out experiences will feel consistent—delivering that characteristic deep sound and rounded sensation when the key is fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the interplay of the different top housing materials results in distinctive outcomes in the overall acoustic profile of each switch. The contrasting materials lead to a clear differentiation, with the Box CJ offering a sharper and more resonant experience, while the Glory Red brings a fuller and deeper sound. However, the common use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar quality when fully depressed. This blend of characteristics means that while they can feel and sound distinctly different based on the top housing, users will still experience a familiar bottom-out sensation and sound profile from both switches, thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Glory Red linear switches both exhibit an identical actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive to keystrokes, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Box CJ's bottom out force is 57 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to press the key all the way down, providing a slightly heftier feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unavailable, leaving a gap in understanding how it feels upon fully depressing the key. Given this information, the Box CJ can be considered the heavier switch due to its clearly defined bottom out force. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter touch in actuation but still desiring a heavier bottom out will find the Box CJ more appealing, while the Glory Red's characteristics remain somewhat of a mystery.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, a notable difference in travel distance is evident. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches, while the Glory Red features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that, for users who prefer a more substantial keystroke and a deeper feel, the Box CJ is the better choice. On the other hand, gamers or those seeking a quicker response may lean towards the Glory Red, as the shorter travel distance can provide faster actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for either a hearty depth or a snappier performance.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 stands out with its higher-pitched clacks, which create a distinctively clacky auditory profile that is both bright and percussive. This characteristic makes it appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound with each keystroke. Additionally, the Box CJ displays a chirpy quality that adds a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the Gateron Glory Red is not specifically outlined, it can be expected to be less pronounced given the typical characteristics of linear switches, allowing for quieter operation. However, the overall sound will ultimately depend on the keyboard build and the keycap choices made.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ offers an impressively smooth keystroke that glides effortlessly, appealing to both typists and gamers seeking a quick response. While the Box CJ is unlubed, this gives the user the option to customize their experience further through lubrication, achieving their preferred smoothness. Its feel can be classified as mild, making it approachable for a wide range of users. Meanwhile, the feel of the Gateron Glory Red remains unspecified, though it is indicated to provide an enjoyable typing experience with its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, catering to those who value comfort in their typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Glory Red linear switches present appealing qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Box CJ is characterized by its distinct clacky and chirpy sound, combined with a smooth and customizable feel, suitable for users who appreciate high responsiveness. Meanwhile, the Glory Red, though lacking specific detailing, is likely to deliver a more subdued auditory experience alongside a pleasantly smooth keystroke. For those who favor customizable and pronounced characteristics, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice, while the Glory Red caters to those seeking a more laid-back typing experience without sacrificing comfort.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Glory Red linear switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're a typist who values speed and responsiveness, the Box CJ's medium-light actuation force of 57 grams and its unique clacky, chirpy sound profile could elevate your typing experience, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a smooth switch and don't mind a bit of acoustic character. Moreover, the unlubed nature of the Box CJ gives you the flexibility to customize them to your liking, perfect for those who enjoy tinkering with their switches. On the other hand, if you're seeking a straightforward, smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance for a more traditional typing experience, the Glory Red is an excellent choice, especially for casual use. While it might have a lighter touch, it provides a neutral sound profile that’s less intrusive, making it suitable for a variety of environments, from home to office settings. Ultimately, consider investing in the Box CJ for a more dynamic performance, while the Glory Red might be best for a pure, enjoyable typing feel.
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