Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mallo offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch known for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, making it ideal for those seeking a swift typing experience with a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, offering subtle feedback without being overpowering. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Chirpy', the Mallo is labeled as 'Feathery' and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your preference for a more pronounced typing experience with the CJ or a subtle and balanced feel with the Mallo; 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Mallo switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better lighting effects. While the top housing of both switches is the same, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Mallo also uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having the same top housing material, their bottom housings contribute different qualities to the overall sound and feel of typing. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound but creates a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique sound profile based on its housing materials.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Mallo switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinctive sound profiles. While both switches use polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, their nylon bottom housings provide varying levels of sound absorption that influence the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile from the Box CJ or a duller and rounder sound from the Mallo, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch differ in weight, with the Box CJ being the lighter of the two. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Mallo has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to press the key all the way down. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Box CJ offering a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Mallo.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel. This makes them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent feel and performance in their keyboards. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key press feedback and actuation.
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 KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 known for its clacky and higher-pitched noise profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, creating a gentle and dampened noise when pressed. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box CJ will deliver a more pronounced and percussive typing experience, while the Mallo will offer a subtle and versatile option suitable for various typing environments.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, giving a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and light typing feel that requires little exertion, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort for extended typing sessions. The Mallo also features a subtle tactility that provides gentle feedback without being overwhelming, creating a balanced and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ switch is ideal for those who seek rapid response and enjoy a clacky, higher-pitched sound, paired with a smooth and mild typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is perfect for typists looking for subtlety and finesse in their typing experience, with a neutral and subdued sound signature, combined with a gentle and feathery typing feel. Both switches offer their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing options for a tailored typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Box CJ or the Mallo, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that provides rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and a smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactility, balanced typing feel, and a versatile sound signature, the Mallo could be more suitable. Ultimately, the Box CJ is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision, while the Mallo is perfect for individuals who value subtlety and finesse in their typing experience. Consider your typing style and environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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