Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Olive mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch that boasts quick response times and a higher-pitched clack sound, making it ideal for typists who prioritize rapid input. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive is a tactile switch with a deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a tactile response. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Olive both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Olive's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both housing materials offer their own aesthetic advantages - polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while POM provides a sleek and modern look.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box CJ incorporates a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Olive's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, aligning with its overall sound aesthetic. While both switches have different bottom housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound and feel during keypresses.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Olive will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ offers a clear and resonant sound, while the POM housing of the Olive provides a unique and pleasing sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ emphasizes a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Olive creates a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, both switches prioritize the typing experience by offering distinct housing materials that aim to enhance sound quality and overall satisfaction for the user.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Box CJ being lighter and the Olive being heavier. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Box CJ would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Olive would be the preferred option. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Olive switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ switch. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Box CJ switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. On the other hand, the Olive switch's shorter travel distance could be preferred by gamers and individuals looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 is often described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be perceived as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for its resonant, deep sound due to the all-POM housings, providing a unique auditory experience that stands out. The Box CJ leans towards a higher-pitched clack, while the Olive offers a deeper, more satisfying sound during typing sessions, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Box CJ is applauded for its impossibly smooth push feel that effortlessly glides under the fingers, providing a mild typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Conversely, the Bsun Olive switches boast a pronounced tactile feedback with a crisp and sharp bottom-out, offering a tactile sensation that is invigorating and highly responsive. The Box CJ focuses on a smooth and easy typing experience, while the Olive provides a tactile feedback that is distinctly satisfying for users who prefer more pronounced feedback during typing.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and Bsun Olive tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ excels in its clacky sound profile and smooth typing feel, ideal for those who seek rapid response and a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive stands out with its deep and resonant sound, along with pronounced tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize speed, smoothness, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deep sound, pronounced tactile feedback, and a satisfying typing experience, the Olive switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prefer a swift and smooth typing experience with the Box CJ or a tactile and resonant one with the Olive. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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