Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Box CJ is a linear switch that offers rapid response and a higher-pitched clack, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Mini i is a tactile switch that offers gentle tactility in each keystroke, striking a balance with a fairly muted sound profile ideal for office settings. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their unique advantages, with the Box CJ catering to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, while the Mini i offers a comfortable typing experience suitable for long hours of use. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Mini i both feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when the keys are pressed. However, the Box CJ stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing offers a translucent look that is characteristic of polycarbonate. This makes it a popular choice for users who want to showcase RGB lighting through their switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing provides a classic look and feel, giving off a more traditional typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, so the overall typing experience will still have similarities in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Mini i hinges on the sound profile and typing experience that users prefer. While the Box CJ offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches have nylon bottom housings that contribute to the overall typing experience, offering a blend of impact and sound absorption. Whether you prefer a more modern look with RGB lighting or a classic feel, both switches have unique qualities to consider based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we can see that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Box CJ's 45 grams. Similarly, the Mini i also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Box CJ's 57 grams. This means that the Mini i switch is overall lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. This difference in weight can affect the typing experience for users, as some may prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier touch for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Box CJ's 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shallower travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking speed and agility. On the other hand, the Box CJ with its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced keystroke depth, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker response or a longer, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be considered crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch is labeled as neutral in terms of sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
In regards to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is characterized as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a lively feedback sensation and minimal force required to activate the keys. Additionally, it falls under the category of mild switches, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound and a mild typing experience with smooth push feel, while the Mini i delivers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel ideal for comfortable and quiet typing. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a typist who values rapid response and smooth keystrokes, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams would be a great choice for you. The higher-pitched clacks and effortless gliding feel will enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you are in an office setting and prefer a light and comfortable typing experience without the intrusive clack sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with its 50 grams bottom out force is the way to go. The Mini i strikes a balance with its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, perfect for long hours of typing in a quiet professional environment. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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