Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Orange. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the characteristics of the CJ lineage with the rapid response of speed switches, making it ideal for those seeking quick and precise keystrokes. Typists will appreciate the higher-pitched clacks and the incredibly smooth push feel that requires minimal effort. On the other hand, the KTT Orange is also a linear switch known for its bouncy feel due to the 22mm long spring, providing a unique tactile experience. With a polycarbonate milky top housing and excellent factory lubing, the KTT Orange offers a frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. While the Gateron Box CJ is categorized as clacky, mild, neutral, and chirpy, the KTT Orange is categorized as bouncy, frictionless, and low-pitched. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and KTT Orange both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the Nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience for users.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches are likely to feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate material. This allows for the transmission of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switches. While the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing may offer a different sound experience compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials. Users can choose between a crisper, sharper sound profile with the Box CJ or a deeper, fuller sound with the KTT Orange.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Orange ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The differences in housing materials, with the Box CJ featuring Nylon bottom housing and the Orange featuring polycarbonate bottom housing, offer distinct typing experiences for users. Both switches excel in providing clear and resonant sound profiles thanks to their polycarbonate top housings, making them both solid options for users seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch are fairly similar in weight. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of weight. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Orange switch, as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. However, those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Gateron Box CJ switch, as it has a slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weight, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Box CJ is more traditional, offering a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Orange switch is slightly shorter, which can provide a quicker response time for gamers looking for speed. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 sound profile, providing typists with a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing typists with a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Conversely, the KTT Orange linear switch is designed to provide a bouncy type feel, giving keys a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that offers a lively rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch boasts a frictionless experience, ensuring smooth and effortless key travel with minimal resistance or friction.
Considering all the available information, typists who opt for the Gateron Box CJ linear switch can expect a sharp and snappy clacky sound with an impossibly smooth push feel that falls in a moderate typing experience zone. On the other hand, those who choose the KTT Orange linear switch will enjoy a low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience that provides a lively rebound when keys are pressed. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that typists can achieve their desired typing experience based on the sound and feel they desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider the following criteria. Choose the Box CJ if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force that offers rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel and customization options for lubrication make it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a tailored typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Orange switch if you enjoy a bouncy typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile. The factory-lubed switches provide a frictionless and fluid key travel experience. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you prioritize the characteristics of the Box CJ or the Orange that align with your typing style and preferences.
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