Gateron Box CJ vs. Kailh BCP

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh BCP both present unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its rapid response capabilities, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value speed. Its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel offer a distinct tactile experience, especially appealing to those who appreciate a little auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, being unlubed, the Box CJ provides a raw expression of smoothness and allows enthusiasts the flexibility to customize lubrication to their liking. In contrast, the Kailh BCP rewrites the traditional linear switch narrative with its creamy and bouncy feel, paired with a signature poppy sound profile that sets it apart. The BCP's thoughtful design eliminates the need for disassembly, further simplifying the user experience while delivering a fully satisfying typing experience. Both switches cater to specific needs—whether it’s the swift and customizable nature of the Box CJ or the playful, bouncy feel of the BCP. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Gateron Box CJ Linear

Kailh BCP Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Kailh BCP, significant differences arise between the two, particularly when it comes to the top housing. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer nature. This characteristic results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when the switch is activated. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an aesthetically pleasing choice for gamers and enthusiasts who want their keyboards to illuminate vividly. In contrast, the Kailh BCP utilizes a nylon top housing that is softer and more absorbent. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, creating a darker and rounder acoustic experience that contrasts with the Box CJ’s pierce.

When we shift our focus to the bottom housing of these switches, we see an interesting point of similarity. Both the Box CJ and the BCP feature nylon as their bottom housing material. This shared use of nylon means that in both switches, the bottom-out sound and feel are characterized by a softer, more muted response. Since nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, both switches will deliver a fuller, round sound experience from the bottom action, ensuring a consistent auditory feedback regardless of which switch is being used. This results in a balanced typing experience for users who prefer a richer bottom-out sound.

Ultimately, the distinctive qualities of the top and bottom housings significantly influence the overall typing experience of each switch. While the Box CJ's polycarbonate top enhances the acoustic sharpness and facilitates premium lighting effects, the nylon bottom maintains a robust and softer sound signature. Conversely, the Kailh BCP’s nylon top offers a duller auditory profile paired with the same nylon bottom, creating a consistent sound character in both the upward and downward motions. For users looking for a more ambient typing experience, the BCP would be preferable, while those desiring sharper feedback might lean towards the Box CJ. The choice between these switches will heavily depend on personal sound preferences, typing feel, and aesthetic aspirations, given the contrasting materials employed in their respective top housings.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a softer feel. In contrast, the Kailh BCP requires a stronger actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier feel may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While both switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their force requirements, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference: lighter switches like the Box CJ can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, whereas heavier switches like the BCP provide a firmer tactile feedback for those who favor strength in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys, the Gateron Box CJ will give you a more pronounced and deeper tactile experience, making it suitable for those who favor a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, with its 3.5 mm travel, is designed for quicker responses, making it more appealing for gamers seeking speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. Thus, if you prioritize a deeper actuating feel, the Gateron Box CJ is the preferable choice, while the Kailh BCP offers a more agile performance for faster typing or gaming action. In summary, the Box CJ is the longer travel switch, whereas the BCP is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch produces a distinctly clacky and chirpy profile, characterized by sharp, bright acoustics that resonate crisply with each keystroke. The higher-pitched clacks can add an engaging auditory layer to the typing experience, creating a lively feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, specific details about the sound profile of the Kailh BCP linear switch remain undisclosed. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound experience is also influenced by factors like keyboard construction and keycap materials, which means users may still achieve a pleasant auditory feedback with the BCP.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Box CJ stands out for its impossibly smooth push, allowing the keys to glide effortlessly beneath your fingers. This gentler, more approachable typing experience is further characterized as mild, making it suitable for users who may be new to mechanical keyboards. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP linear switch is noted for its creamy, viscous texture and a bouncy response, providing a distinctly elastic feel that can create a dynamic typing experience. While the two switches offer different tactile sensations, both prioritize a smooth operation, albeit through varying design philosophies.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Box CJ and Kailh BCP linear switches present unique sound and feel characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences in typing experiences. The Box CJ provides a crisp, clacky auditory feedback with a smooth, mild touch, making it versatile for a wide audience. In contrast, the BCP offers a more elastic and bouncy feel, which could appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic interaction with their keys. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to find joy in the nuances of their chosen switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing style and sound preferences. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter push force, the Box CJ is an excellent choice; its medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams allows for swift response, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who value speed and feedback. The higher-pitched clacks and unique chirpy sound can also be appealing if you prefer a more vibrant auditory experience while typing. Conversely, if you lean towards a more tactile and bouncy feel with a slightly heavier force requirement, the Kailh BCP switch might suit you better. With its medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams and a creamy, elastic sensation, the BCP is great for those who enjoy a poppy sound and a more substantial feel under their fingers. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just your performance needs but also the sensory experience that you find most satisfying in your keyboard use.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more