Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches with distinct characteristics. The Box CJ is known for its swift speed and higher-pitched clacks, designed for those seeking rapid response and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, providing a comfortable and strain-free experience. Each switch has its own unique attributes, making them suitable for different typing preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have significant similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when comparing the top housing materials of these two switches.
However, the housing materials diverge when it comes to the bottom housings of the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, while the Mannan Pipefish also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housings. Despite this difference, both switches benefit from the unique acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish highlights the importance of housing materials in determining a switch's sound profile and typing experience. While the top housings influence the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housings play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. By understanding the qualities that each housing material contributes, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it's clear that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter of the two. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly heavier. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force needed to register a keypress, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to fully press the key down. For those who prefer a softer and lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the ideal choice. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Gateron Box CJ would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that users will get similar tactile feedback and typing experience with both switches. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, making them equally suitable choices for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a distinct auditory feedback for typists. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is noted to have a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can provide a pleasing sound experience, with the Box CJ offering a more unique clacky sound compared to the more neutral Mannan Pipefish.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Box CJ switch is praised for its impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly when typing. This smoothness provides a comfortable typing experience, with a mild overall feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience, with gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force of 45g. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound and a mild, smooth push feel, ideal for those seeking rapid response and a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, polished feel, perfect for casual typists looking for a strain-free typing journey. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In summarizing the comparison between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is important to consider your typing 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 light actuation force, comfortable and precise typing experience, and an effortless typing journey, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel characteristics mentioned for each switch to further narrow down your selection based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what typing experience you desire and which attributes are most important to you.
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