Gateron Box CJ vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in nature, distinct differences and similarities emerge. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its combination of CJ lineage attributes and speed switch characteristics, providing typists with a swift and responsive typing experience accompanied by higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness straight out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, offering a crisp and clacky sound signature with each keystroke. While the Box CJ presents a drier, raw smoothness, allowing for customization of lubrication to individual preferences, the Lavender switch provides an easy-to-press feel that is equally satisfying. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Zuoce Lavender switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Lavender's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the Box CJ's top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, perfect for users who enjoy a more distinct typing experience, while the Lavender's POM housing delivers a deep and more subdued sound, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic characteristics that absorb more sound. Conversely, the Lavender's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, offering a similar typing experience to the Box CJ despite the differing housing materials. Both switches provide a unique and pleasing sound that caters to different preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and Zuoce Lavender switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ offers a crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Lavender delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ and the POM bottom housing of the Lavender both contribute to a deep and fuller sound profile, showcasing the versatility of different housing materials in creating unique typing experiences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different sound preferences, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch have actuation forces in the medium-light range, with the Box CJ requiring 45 grams and the Lavender needing 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ is slightly heavier at 57 grams compared to the Lavender's 53 grams. This means that while both switches offer a similar light actuation feel, the Box CJ provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lavender may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may lean towards the Box CJ for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
While both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer a smooth linear feel, there is a difference in their travel distances. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the Lavender has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. The Box CJ's 4mm travel distance provides a deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. In contrast, the Lavender's 3.4mm travel distance offers a quicker keystroke response, which may be favored by those seeking faster typing speeds, especially gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and speed.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and distinct noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch also falls into the clacky category, offering a similarly crisp and satisfying sound with each keystroke. Both switches are likely to offer a pleasing auditory experience to typists, making them suitable choices for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ is recognized for its mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Typists will find the push feel of the Box CJ to be smooth and effortless, offering a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and promoting a low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their unique feel profiles, catering to different preferences in typing feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Zuoce Lavender switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that can cater to different typing preferences. While the Box CJ provides a clacky sound and a mild typing experience with a smooth push feel, the Lavender switch also offers a clacky sound but focuses on an easy-to-press feel that enhances typing comfort. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing resistance, typists can expect a satisfying experience with either switch, achieving similar results in terms of auditory feedback and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize rapid response and a smooth keystroke feel, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. Its higher-pitched clacks and customizable lubrication options cater to enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if exceptional smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound signature are more important to you, the Lavender switch stands out with its proprietary blend and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and customization or smoothness and sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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