Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Lupine mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that effortlessly glides. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine stands out for its consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement due to its two-stage long springs, accompanied by a classic clacky sound profile. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Lupine is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may depend on individual preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help in making an informed decision based on what suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Lupine switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which means it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This combination of materials in each switch provides a unique typing experience, with the qualities of the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Lupine switches are the same, the way in which they are utilized in each switch may result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is clear that the Lupine is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Box CJ is slightly lighter with a bottom out force of 57 grams. The actuation force of the Box CJ at 45 grams is known, while the Lupine's actuation force is unknown. While both switches offer a medium typing experience, with the Lupine being slightly heavier, the Box CJ may provide a slightly lighter feel. The actuation force is essential for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lupine being on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the Lupine for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness. Each will provide a different typing experience, with the Lupine offering a quicker feel and the Box CJ providing a more pronounced key press.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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 switch is best described as providing a clacky profile, delivering sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch offers a neutral sound profile with a slightly higher-pitched tone. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Box CJ providing a more percussive sound compared to the Lupine's crisp and sharp sound.
In terms of feel, both the Box CJ and Lupine switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that typists can expect a gentle and approachable feel when using either switch. Additionally, the Box CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, while the Lupine switch features a polished finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics that may be off-putting to users.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that they offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, the Lupine switch stands out for its two-stage long springs and polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, but users can expect similar levels of quality in performance and comfort from both options.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, along with the option to customize lubrication to your liking, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement during typing, along with a classic clacky sound profile and smooth key travel due to factory lubing, the Lupine may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and customization options.
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