Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, to the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics and typing experience. The Box CJ is tailored for those seeking rapid response with a swift and smooth push feel, accompanied by higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a satisfying clicky sound without any specific standout features. If you prefer a clacky, mild, neutral, and chirpy typing experience, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This means that when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Despite having the same material for their bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these switches may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Box CJ and the Blue Jade differ in their materials, with the Box CJ featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Blue Jade using a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This contrasts with nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. These differences in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing or gaming.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they differ in the materials used for their top housings. The top housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile when pressing and releasing keys, with polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by nylon. Despite these differences, the overall typing experience may still be similar, as the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound on key release. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, which requires 50 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the Blue Jade needs 65 grams, making the Blue Jade the heavier option for both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Box CJ for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier Blue Jade switch for a more satisfying typing experience. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to varying preferences for typing and gaming activities.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches provide a similar level of feedback and actuation when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. However, while both switches may have the same travel distance, they will still offer slightly different typing experiences due to their unique characteristics such as actuation force and sound profile.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a quality that is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls into a safe middle ground zone. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is unknown, leaving uncertainty about how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and mild feel that caters to those seeking a smooth and responsive typing experience. Although the qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are unknown, it's important to remember that preferences in mechanical keyboard switches can vary greatly among individuals. Ultimately, when it comes to selecting between the two, it's crucial to consider personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should opt for the Box CJ if you prioritize a swift and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks. The Box CJ offers an impossibly smooth push feel and comes unlubed for customization options. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, snappy sound, the Blue Jade may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and customization options.
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