Gateron Box CJ vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches, you will find yourself presented with two distinct options for your typing experience. The Box CJ offers a combination of the CJ lineage's attributes with the rapid response of speed switches, resulting in higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the TTC Honey provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Honey falls into categories such as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and preferences. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Honey, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonant and ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can lead to a noticeable variation in typing experience between the two switches.
While both the Box CJ and the Honey feature polycarbonate top housings which contribute to their sharp and clear sound profiles, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharpness and crispness associated with this material. This distinction means that users can expect a more tactile and resonant typing experience with the Box CJ, compared to the potentially crisper but less immersive typing experience with the Honey. Ultimately, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of these switches.
In understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. The properties of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a greater effect on the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice of housing material in both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly alter the overall typing experience, allowing users to customize their setup based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Box CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Honey's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the Honey only needs 50 grams, indicating that the Box CJ is also heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium-light to light range of forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may lean towards the Honey switch, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might favor the Box CJ switch for its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and cushion when typing. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may result in quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether you prefer a bit more depth in your keystrokes or prioritize speed and responsiveness. Both switches offer a balance between travel distance and tactile feedback, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, the Box CJ is known for producing a higher-pitched clack that is sharp and snappy, giving typists a unique and distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a more subdued sound profile that is dampened and subtle, providing a quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the clacky sound of the Box CJ may be preferred by those seeking a more pronounced and percussive typing experience, while the subdued sound of the Honey switch may appeal to those looking for a quieter and more understated typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as providing an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience, with a frictionless and polished finish that allows for seamless and effortless keystrokes. The Box CJ focuses on smoothness and a safe middle-ground typing experience, while the Honey switch aims to deliver a luxurious and silky sensation with minimal resistance and friction.
In conclusion, when considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Box CJ excels in providing a sharp and clacky sound with an incredibly smooth typing feel, while the Honey switch offers a more subdued and creamy sound with a luxurious and buttery typing experience. Depending on whether one prioritizes sound sharpness or smooth feel, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences that cater to various user preferences. Ultimately, through customization and personal testing, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value rapid response and higher-pitched clacks with a smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and precision or a luxurious and comfortable typing feel. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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