Gateron Box CJ vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its swift speed switches, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ creates a seamless typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black stands out for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile. With Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a stiff yet satisfying typing experience. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the MX Black is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Cherry MX Black, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon as a softer plastic helps to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, a key difference arises in the top housing material used in these switches. While the Gateron Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, the Cherry MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon's softer properties result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. This difference in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch during typing.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials interact in these switches, it becomes evident that the qualities each material brings to the table are divided between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics between the two housing materials highlights the importance of the overall design and construction of a switch in influencing the typing experience for users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch differ significantly. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In comparison, the MX Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial and firm typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use may opt for the Gateron Box CJ, while users seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cherry MX Black. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer reliable performance, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of keystroke registration.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. It is worth noting that with the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation when using either the Gateron Box CJ or Cherry MX Black linear switch.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone when typing. The Box CJ provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, giving typists a mild and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff, offering a classic and firm typing feel. Overall, the choice between the Box CJ and MX Black switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and smooth typing experience, the Box CJ may be more suitable, while the MX Black offers a low-pitched and textured typing feel. Regardless of which switch you choose, both options offer quality performance that ensures a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Choose the Gateron Box CJ if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound with a smooth push feel. These switches are also customizable with lubrication. On the other hand, opt for the Cherry MX Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound with a classic textured smoothness. Keep in mind that the MX Black switches may feel slightly textured and stiff compared to the Box CJ switches. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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