Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Grapefruit are two options that stand out. The Gateron Box CJ is praised for its swift characteristics of speed switches, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. Its smooth push feel is described as impossibly smooth, making it ideal for those seeking a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a unique soft and light typist feel with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. Despite both being linear switches, the Box CJ falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', while the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and advantages, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Grapefruit switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall, making these switches ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with distinct auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer for a quieter typing experience. This material choice in the bottom housing helps to enhance the overall sound profile of the switches, providing a satisfying tactile feedback for users.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the differences in the top and bottom housings of each switch can affect the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material, in this case nylon, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing, typically polycarbonate, influences the sound when releasing the key. These differences in housing materials allow for a balance of sound profile and tactile feedback in both switches, catering to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. However, the Gateron Box CJ has a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the KTT Grapefruit's 53 grams. This means that the Gateron Box CJ provides a bit more resistance when the key is fully pressed down. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel of the keys when typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will feel the same amount of distance traveled as they type. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the KTT Grapefruit, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a consistent feel and performance when it comes to the distance traveled during typing, with neither being shorter or longer than the other.
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 Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 offers a clacky and neutral typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement making them suitable for various purposes. The choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience with an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. This switch provides a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience for users who prefer a sleek and refined feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is best suited for those who seek rapid response with a clacky sound profile and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is ideal for users looking for a tarty linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and while they may provide similar results in some aspects, such as the neutral sound profile, their individual characteristics make them distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you seek a rapid response with a higher-pitched clack and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a unique "baritone" sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision.
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