Gateron Box CJ vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Holly offer distinct experiences for typists. The Box CJ is a linear switch that boasts swift characteristics and rapid response, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and smoothness in their typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. While the Box CJ is known for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, the Holly offers a medium 50g actuation force and a sound profile that caters to users seeking a mix of chirpy and clacky sounds. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Dareu Holly both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches featuring RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both switches offer similar qualities with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Box CJ and Dareu Holly differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Box CJ featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Holly also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. With this in mind, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly affect the overall typing experience, and both the Gateron Box CJ and Dareu Holly offer a distinct combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings to create a unique typing sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that the Box CJ is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Holly's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ is also lighter at 57 grams whereas the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. Both switches offer a medium-light actuation force but the Box CJ provides more information on the bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Box CJ may be the preferred choice. In contrast, users looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Dareu Holly tactile switch, provided that the bottom out force meets their preference. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This means that the typing experience in terms of keypress depth will be similar with both switches. While they may have different tactile feedback due to the linear and tactile design differences, the actual travel distance remains consistent between the two. Overall, users can expect a consistent typing feel in terms of travel distance when using either the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 switch is best known for its higher-pitched clacks that provide a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, creating a balanced and distinctive typing noise. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Box CJ leaning towards a sharper sound, while the Holly incorporates some squeaky elements. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will depend on the user's preference and other factors like keycaps and keyboard build.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is lauded for its impossibly smooth push feel that effortlessly glides under the fingers, providing a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Holly switch does not have a specific feel descriptor mentioned in the provided information. However, the medium 50g actuation force of the Holly switch indicates a tactile typing experience that may offer a good balance between feedback and ease of use. Users who prefer a smoother feel may lean towards the Box CJ, while those seeking a tactile response might find the Holly switch more appealing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound profile and a smooth push feel, catering to users who prioritize a swift typing experience. On the other hand, the Holly switch presents a unique sound signature with chirpy elements and likely provides a tactile typing feel with its 50g actuation force. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their strengths and can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect different but equally enjoyable results based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a swift and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience, the Holly switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific typing preferences and whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or a distinctive sound profile.
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