Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, some key differences and similarities become apparent. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift characteristics and rapid response, making it ideal for typists who require quick feedback. With higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel, the Box CJ provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and creamy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. While the Box CJ is categorized as clacky, mild, and neutral, the North Pole V2 falls under categories like gummy, creamy, and subdued. Each switch has its strengths and appeal, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron North Pole V2 is the material used for the bottom housing. The Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer and more sound-absorbent properties. On the other hand, polycarbonate is stiffer, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This means that typing on the Box CJ will likely result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the North Pole V2.
On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their top housing - polycarbonate. This material is well-known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing option for those looking to customize the look of their keyboard. Therefore, despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, users can expect similar sound profiles when using the Box CJ and the North Pole V2, as the top housing plays a significant role in the overall sound of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron North Pole V2 will likely come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 produces a crisper and higher-pitched sound, providing a more clear and resonant typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in the top housing, ensuring a consistent and aesthetically pleasing sound profile, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, users can choose the switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in both actuation force and bottom-out force. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. Additionally, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom-out force of 57 grams, whereas the North Pole V2 has a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall compared to the North Pole V2. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Box CJ may be the more suitable option. However, individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom-out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. As a result, the feel and responsiveness of these switches will be very similar. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance. In conclusion, the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches is equal, providing users with a consistent typing experience across both options.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a subdued and dampened sound profile that is more deep and muted. Depending on personal preference, the Box CJ may be preferred for those who enjoy a sharper and more distinct sound, while the North Pole V2 may be favored by those who prefer a quieter and more mellow typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch boasts an impossibly smooth push feel that is effortless and glide-like, offering a mild and gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is described as gummy, providing a delightful chewy typing feel that is unique and satisfying. With a sensation akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, the North Pole V2 delivers a distinct tactile experience that may appeal to those seeking a more playful and bouncy typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ excels in providing a sharp and clacky sound with an incredibly smooth push feel, the North Pole V2 stands out for its subdued and gummy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Experimenting with different switches can help determine which one best suits your typing needs, whether you desire a faster response or a more playful typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and swift typing experience, then the Box CJ switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gummy and subdued typing feel, then the North Pole V2 switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities and characteristics that align with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
