Gateron Box CJ vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Gazzew LT both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the CJ lineage's attributes with the swift characteristics of speed switches, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ is exceptionally effortless, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize smoothness in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT is also a linear switch but stands out with its enticing lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on the LT switches offers a seamless glide with every keystroke, creating an auditory symphony for users. The LT is perfect for those who enjoy a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gazzew LT both offer unique sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. The polycarbonate material of the Box CJ is known for its stiffness, which results in a more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the LT's boba plastic blend top housing is softer, providing a deeper sound quality. Despite these differences, both materials offer distinct auditory experiences depending on individual preferences.
In terms of bottom housings, the Box CJ's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. Similarly, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic," shares the same softness as the top housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile. This similarity in material composition leads to a consistent sound experience across the entire switch for the Gazzew LT, while the Box CJ's split between polycarbonate and nylon housings may yield a varying sound depending on the keystroke.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gazzew LT ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Box CJ offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Gazzew LT provides a rich and deep sound with its proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings. Both switches offer unique advantages in sound quality based on the materials used in their construction, providing users with a variety of options to choose from depending on their desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gazzew LT linear switches, we can see a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, offering a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Box CJ may be the better option. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Gazzew LT. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the CJ switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feeling. Both switches offer a different experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which one to choose.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. When it comes to feel, the Box CJ is described as offering a mild typing experience, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch is characterized by its deep, resonant thockiness, offering a satisfying sound with every keystroke. The LT switch is also described as bassy and having a low-pitched sound profile, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Box CJ. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the LT switch.
In conclusion, the Box CJ and LT switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound with a smooth push feel, while the LT offers a thocky, bassy sound with a seamless glide. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, but the sound and feel will vary based on personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Ultimately, users can expect quality performance from both switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience no matter which one they choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a switch that offers rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and a smooth push feel, then the Box CJ would be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Box CJ would be a great fit. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch with a deep, resonant thockiness, a seamless glide with every keystroke, and a bassy sound profile, then the Gazzew LT linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, each switch has its own unique attributes that cater to different preferences, so consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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