Gateron Box CJ vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the TKC Kiwi mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch best known for its swift response time and high-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, offering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for a immersive typing experience. While the Box CJ is ideal for those who seek rapid response and a clacky feel, the Kiwi is perfect for individuals looking for a tactile key press and a polished typing 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and TKC Kiwi switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the sound profile and feel of each switch. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, while the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, resulting in a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the Box CJ uses nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder effect. In contrast, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, contributing to the overall bright sound signature and resonant clacks experienced during typing. The different housing materials used by these switches demonstrate how variations in material composition can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on mechanical keyboards.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and TKC Kiwi switches are different, the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that the Box CJ is on the lighter side while the Kiwi is on the heavier side. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The actuation force of both switches is relatively close, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Kiwi requires more pressure for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switches plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being favored for extended use and heavier switches offering a more robust feel for those who prefer a stronger push.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that both switches offer a consistent and predictable key press feel for users. Both switches are equal in this aspect, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience. However, even though the travel distance is the same for both switches, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct typing characteristics due to their different switch types.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a clacky and crisp sound profile, giving typists a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone that is more bass-heavy and neutral in comparison. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches will vary, but both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Conversely, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped and accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, these Kiwi switches are factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and polished typing experience right out of the box. Overall, the feel of these switches will cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ focusing on a mild and safe typing experience, while the Kiwi offers a more pronounced tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound with a smooth push feel, while the Kiwi offers a low-pitched sound with a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Both switches provide a unique typing experience that can be customized further based on individual preferences and keyboard setups. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, making both options worthy contenders for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: if you prioritize a rapid response and smooth keystrokes with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, enhanced typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump, and a smoother feel right out of the box, the Kiwi switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and level of bumpiness you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
