Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Mamba mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Box CJ is praised for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, catering to those who value rapid typing. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a gliding sensation, paying homage to Kobe Bryant's legacy. While the Box CJ is known for its clacky feel and neutral attributes, the Mamba is recognized for its polished and thocky qualities. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Mamba offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those who desire a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing produces a more pleasant and brighter sound, offering a unique typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a softer, less sharp sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Box CJ's nylon material creates a deep and full sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba's POM bottom housing delivers an incredibly pleasing and muted sound, adding a deeper touch to the overall typing feel. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase the impact of housing material on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Mamba differ, they each play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The qualities of the top housing affect the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch. Whether opting for the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Box CJ or the bright and unique sound of the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ is the lighter option in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the Mamba has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mamba is heavier with 60 grams compared to the Box CJ’s 57 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, with the Mamba offering a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Those looking for a lighter typing experience and less finger fatigue may opt for the Box CJ, while those seeking a more sturdy and responsive feel may lean towards the Durock Mamba. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Box CJ offers a traditional travel distance, while the Mamba provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Mamba for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 switch offers a clacky experience with sharp and snappy sounds, while the Durock Mamba switch provides a neutral sound profile with a thocky deep and rich tone. The Box CJ switch has a higher-pitched clack, giving typists a crisp and bright auditory feedback, while the Mamba switch offers a rich and creamy typing experience. Both switches offer different sound profiles, catering to individual preferences in terms of sound feedback during typing.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Mamba switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. The Box CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, creating a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most typists. On the other hand, the Mamba switch also provides a mild typing experience with a gliding sensation, along with a polished finish that promises smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their mild characteristics.
Overall, while the Gateron Box CJ and Durock Mamba switches may differ in sound and feel qualities, they both offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The Box CJ switch excels in providing a clacky and sharp sound profile with an exceptionally smooth push feel, making it ideal for those seeking a rapid response typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch offers a neutral sound profile with a thocky rich tone, combined with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound feedback and typing feel, as both switches promise a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize rapid response and smooth keystrokes with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron Box CJ may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a drier, raw smoothness or wish to customize the lubrication, the Box CJ offers that flexibility. On the other hand, if you seek a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba could be the ideal option. Both switches offer medium bottom out forces, but the Mamba provides a thocky sound profile compared to the clacky sound of the Box CJ. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
