Gateron Box CJ vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Ice each present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its quick response time and higher-pitched clacks, making it an excellent choice for typists who value both speed and auditory feedback. The unlubed design allows for a raw, smooth typing experience while also providing enthusiasts with the freedom to customize the feel to their liking. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches offer a visually striking crystal-clear design coupled with smooth responsiveness, making them well-suited for both gaming and everyday typing. While the Ice switches deliver a satisfying bottom-out sound, they lack the specific sound profile that the Box CJ is known for. Each switch has its unique selling points, appealing to various preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Ice, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual appeal of the switches, especially when combined with RGB lighting. Thus, both switches are well-suited for aesthetically pleasing keyboard builds, providing users with a bright and clear sound that punctuates each keystroke.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches differs significantly, with the Box CJ employing nylon and the Ice utilizing polycarbonate. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This disparity is important, as it implies that while the top housing of both switches contributes to a crisp sound, the bottom housing characteristics will influence the overall sound and feel when typing. With the Box CJ, users can expect a rounded bottom-out sound, which is complemented by the sharper sound when releasing the key, highlighting the unique acoustic properties contributed by the nylon material.
The differing combinations of housing materials—polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom for the Box CJ, versus polycarbonate for both top and bottom on the Ice—mean that users will experience distinct auditory and tactile sensations when using these switches. While they share a similar crispness in the key release due to the polycarbonate top, the Box CJ offers a more rounded and deeper feel upon bottoming out thanks to its nylon bottom. For those looking for a balance between a sharp release and a fuller bottom-out sound, the Box CJ would be preferable. In contrast, the TTC Ice provides a consistent sound profile that leans toward the crispness in both the downstroke and release, making it a good choice for users who favor that clarity throughout their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a similar ease of triggering keystrokes. However, while the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, the Ice requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that although both switches offer a light feel during actuation, the TTC Ice provides a firmer resistance when fully pressed down. Overall, the Gateron Box CJ is the lighter option when considering bottoming out, making it potentially more favorable for users who prefer a softer typing experience for long periods, while the TTC Ice might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel with its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, we find a notable distinction: the Box CJ features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference reflects a preference for varying tactile experiences; the Box CJ offers a more traditional, deeper feel, which some users may find satisfying and robust, while the Ice provides a snappier response that could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more responsive keypress, the TTC Ice would be the better choice with its shorter travel distance, whereas if you enjoy a more pronounced depth when typing, the Gateron Box CJ would suit you better.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 considering sound, the Gateron Box CJ switches are known for their higher-pitched clacking, which delivers a sharp and snappy auditory response. This sound profile can be described as crisp and bright, fitting well into environments where you want your keystrokes to be heard without being overwhelming. The switches exhibit a unique chirpy quality, adding a distinctive acoustic signature that can make typing feel engaging. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches do not have a defined sound profile listed, but they are described as providing a satisfying bottom-out sound. Due to the variation in sound that different boards and keycap materials can yield, your experience with the Ice switches may be contingent on your overall setup.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ switches present an impossibly smooth push feel that practically glides under your fingers. With their mild characteristics, these switches strike a balance that is approachable for both casual users and dedicated typists alike. This means you can expect a gentle typing experience that blends comfort with responsiveness. The TTC Ice switches, while they promise a smooth and responsive feel, do not have additional descriptors listed, leaving some uncertainty about their tactile profile.
When synthesizing the information, both switches cater to distinct preferences yet share a common goal of enhancing the typing experience. The Box CJ leans toward a crisper auditory experience with an emphasis on smoothness and speed, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy auditory feedback and a mild tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Ice appears to offer a more subdued auditory signature and a generally smooth feel, positioning itself as a versatile option for both gaming and everyday use. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the pronounced acoustic engagement of the Box CJ or the clear aesthetic and smooth responsiveness of the Ice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Box CJ and TTC Ice linear switches largely depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you favor a keyboard that offers a quicker response time along with a unique auditory experience, the Gateron Box CJ is the ideal option for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 57 grams allows for effortless typing, which can be especially beneficial for fast-paced gaming or rapid typing. The clacky and chirpy sound profiles add character, making each keystroke feel both enjoyable and rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer a straightforward yet premium typing experience, the TTC Ice would be more suitable. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, these switches provide a solid, responsive feel without overwhelming you. The transparent design showcases the aesthetics of your keyboard, and the smooth action paired with pleasing sound makes it well-rounded for both gaming and everyday tasks. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—like sound, actuation force, and typing feel—when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
