Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Light Tactile stand out for their distinct characteristics. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift attributes of speed switches with the smooth push feel that effortlessly glides under typists' fingertips. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and more polished typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. While the Box CJ provides a clacky and higher-pitched typing experience, the Light Tactile offers a more neutral and jelly-like sound signature. Each switch has its own unique appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Light Tactile switches share some similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound-absorbing properties.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials in each switch are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a unique tactile and auditory experience for users of both the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Light Tactile switches, emphasizing the importance of carefully selecting housing materials for a desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Gateron Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences. Ultimately, the Gateron Box CJ is lighter in terms of force, while the Durock Light Tactile is heavier, allowing users to select the switch that best suits their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Light Tactile switches, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the key bottoms out. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel, making them both suitable options for those who prefer a consistent feel.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 experience with sharp and snappy sounds, giving typists a crisp and bright auditory feedback. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile presents a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a gentle tactility that is a refreshing departure from sharper tactile switches, providing a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique typing feels, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Light Tactile switches present distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Box CJ is best suited for those seeking a rapid response and clacky sound, while providing a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, along with a polished typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a switch that offers rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility, angelic typing experience, and a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch from Durock might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience.
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