Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) 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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both excellent options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Box CJ is renowned for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, making it ideal for those looking for a fast and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stands out for its smooth keystrokes and pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, providing a buttery smooth typing experience at an affordable price point. While the Box CJ offers a clacky and smooth feel, the Milky Red Pro delivers a buttery and bassy touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches gives them a similar sound profile, enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound when typing.
On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for situations where RGB lighting is utilized due to its translucency. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in top housing material will impact the sound when pressing down and letting go of a key, providing a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the difference in top housing material sets them apart. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ delivers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting setups, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) creates a more muted and rounded sound. These differences make each switch unique in their own way, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the same at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is 57 grams, slightly heavier than the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to register a keypress, the Box CJ provides a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Red Pro may be the better option, as it has a lower bottom out force. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Box CJ.Overall, both switches offer a medium-light actuation force but differ slightly in their bottom out force, providing users with options depending on their preference for key press weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation with both switches. The design and construction of the switches may vary, but ultimately, the travel distance remains consistent. So, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can enjoy a smooth and consistent travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky and neutral sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by its bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Box CJ leaning towards a higher-pitched clack while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a smoother and lower-pitched thock.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle ground zone. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery smoothness, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is uniform and consistent. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Box CJ focusing on a smooth glide and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizing a buttery feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a switch with a higher-pitched clack and mild feel, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a switch with a smoother and lower-pitched thock sound paired with a buttery typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal option. Both switches provide exceptional qualities and performance, and selecting either one will result in a satisfying typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your priorities for typing experience. If you value rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and a smooth glide, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and higher-pitched sounds or smoothness and affordability in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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