Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Jupiter Brown offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch designed for rapid response, featuring higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. While the Box CJ is perfect for those seeking speed and precision, the Jupiter Brown appeals to individuals looking for a traditional tactile experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, it can be seen that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities in the top housing material, the two switches differ in their choice of bottom housing material.
The Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on switches that use this material. This variation in bottom housing material between the two switches showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining its sound profile and tactile feel. While both the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Jupiter Brown share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their different choices of bottom housing material result in distinct sound experiences. Understanding the impact of each material on the switch's overall performance can help users make informed decisions when selecting mechanical keyboard switches based on their preferred sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch at 55 grams, making the Box CJ more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is also lighter at 57 grams, while the Jupiter Brown requires a heavier 70 grams to fully press down. This means that the Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the Jupiter Brown is considered medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures a uniform typing or gaming experience across both switch variants. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress responsiveness and feedback, regardless of which switch is chosen for their keyboard.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This characteristic creates a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that is distinct from other switches. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. This means that the switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback and typing sensation. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is also described as polished, suggesting a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel. Conversely, the Box CJ switch comes unlubed, allowing users the option to customize the lubrication for a tailored smoothness level.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Box CJ is known for its swift characteristics and clacky sound, the Jupiter Brown blends tradition with innovation and offers a more classic keystroke feel with a polished finish. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, making them suitable for a wide range of users. In cases where specific information is not available for comparison, it can be assumed that similar results may be achieved based on the shared qualities of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prioritize rapid response and a smooth push feel with a medium-light bottom out force, the Box CJ might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more tactile typing experience, the Jupiter Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or tradition and tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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