Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Oil King mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is celebrated for its swift characteristics and rapid response, making it ideal for those seeking quick and precise typing experiences. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and dark chocolate bar snapping sound profile, offering a luxurious typing experience. While the Box CJ is known for its higher-pitched clacks and unlubed feel, allowing for customization, the Oil King boasts a low-pitched, creamy sound profile that is both buttery and polished. 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
55g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Oil King, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their different materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance, while the nylon top housing of the Oil King produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer material that absorbs more sound. Both materials have their strengths, with the polycarbonate providing a more high-pitched sound and the nylon offering a more rounded sound. Despite these differences, the use of each material enhances the overall typing experience in its own way.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Box CJ and the Oil King use nylon material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of its softer plastic properties. However, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing sets it apart with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. This unique blend offers a different typing experience compared to the classic nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ. While both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings, the proprietary blend in the Oil King adds a distinctive sound element that may appeal to users seeking a more specific typing feel.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Oil King showcase how different plastics can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. Whether it's the clarity and resonance of polycarbonate in the Box CJ's top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Oil King's top and bottom housings, each material brings its own qualities to the typing experience. While the Oil King's proprietary blend in the bottom housing provides a unique sound profile, the use of nylon in both switches highlights the versatility and effectiveness of this classic switch housing material. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams while the Oil King has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a firmer and more substantial typing experience, which may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that regardless of whether you choose the Box CJ or the Oil King, you will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, providing typists with a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, resembling the deep richness of a dark chocolate bar snapping. While the Box CJ leans towards a more percussive and bright sound, the Oil King delivers a mellower and more bass-heavy tone during key presses. The sound of each switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience, striking a balance between gentle typing and notable characteristics. Typists can expect an effortless glide and smooth push feel that allows for comfortable typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. The application of lubricant in the factory or specific materials used contribute to the silky sensation and reduced friction associated with the Oil King switch.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Oil King linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky, higher-pitched sound with a mild typing experience, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile combined with a creamy, silky typing feel, the Oil King switch might be more suited to your preferences. Both switches provide smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, so you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance despite their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound with a creamy, silky typing experience, the Oil King could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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