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Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Kiki Red

An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches that prioritize different aspects of the typing experience. The Box CJ is designed for those who crave rapid response and a smooth push feel, with higher-pitched clacks adding to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and medium-light weighting for a subtle tactile feedback. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether it be for a more raw and customizable smoothness with the Box CJ, or a polished and easy-to-press experience with the Kiki Red. 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

N/A

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

Ly

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

POM

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

15.4mm single-stage spring

Spring

20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring

Housing materials

The Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Kiki Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the Kiki Red features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer different sound characteristics, they are both known for their pleasing and unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Box CJ incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Kiki Red utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their bottom housing materials creating a rounder and duller sound that enhances the overall typing feel.

The split between top and bottom housing materials in each switch highlights the impact that different materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Kiki Red showcase how the choice of housing material can influence the typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is the lighter option of the two. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter overall feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Kiki Red would be the more suitable choice. However, the Box CJ may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their variations in actuation and bottom out forces, with the Kiki Red being the lighter option.

Travel distance

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.

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 offers a clacky typing experience with higher-pitched clacks that produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red also provides a clacky sound profile that strikes a balance with a comfortably high-pitched nuance without being excessively loud. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying auditory feedback that is crisp and percussive, making either option a great choice for those who appreciate an engaging typing sound.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Box CJ presents a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. With an impossibly smooth push feel, typists can enjoy a gliding sensation that effortlessly melts into each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience that is smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation and reducing resistance during key presses. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, catering to enthusiasts who value finesse and comfort in their keyboard switches.

Considering the available information, it is evident that both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ leans towards a clacky sound profile and a mild typing experience with smoothness as its highlight, the Kiki Red provides a balance between high-pitched clacks and a creamy, frictionless feel for a refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, but it is safe to say that users can expect a satisfying and engaging typing experience with either option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a swift and agile response with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a finely-tuned typing experience with a balanced, high-pitched clacky nuance and a medium-light weighting, the Bsun Kiki Red could be the switch that suits your preferences. Keep in mind that the Box CJ offers a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Kiki Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. Consider the sound and feel descriptors provided for each switch to guide your decision based on the typing experience you desire. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance.

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