Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique advantages for different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ showcases swift characteristics of speed switches, delivering rapid response times and higher-pitched clacks for typists who prioritize quick and precise typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow provides a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, offering a satisfying bump with each keystroke. While the Box CJ offers an impossibly smooth push feel, the Cream Yellow presents a customizable option for enthusiasts to personalize their typing experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In terms of bottom-out sound and feel, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will have a significant impact on the overall typing experience in both switches.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches differ, with the Box CJ utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and the Cream Yellow featuring a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature that lends to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with this material in the top housing.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches differ in their top and bottom housing compositions, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience through unique sound profiles. The split between the bottom and top housing materials results in a combination of qualities that can be felt and heard when using these switches. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ or the deep and full sound from the nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow, users can expect a distinct typing experience with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same for both at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs slightly, with the Box CJ requiring 57 grams and the Cream Yellow needing 60 grams. The Box CJ is the lighter option between the two, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly heavier typing feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force, but the slight difference in bottom out force may impact the overall typing feel for users who prefer either a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer than the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the longer travel distance of the Box CJ switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer different advantages, so it is important to consider what qualities are most important to you when choosing between them.
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 Cream Yellow 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 higher-pitched clacks, giving typists a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is not specified here, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an incredibly smooth push feel that effortlessly glides. Described as mild, these switches provide a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. Unfortunately, there is no information provided on the feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, making it hard to directly contrast the two in this aspect.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in providing a quick response time with high-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch lacks detailed descriptions regarding sound and feel, making it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. In situations where detailed information is not available, it is worth noting that both switches could potentially yield similar results depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right switch for you is through trying them out and experiencing them firsthand.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prioritize rapid response and smooth gliding feel with a slightly clacky sound, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a mild typing experience and no specific sound preference, the Cream Yellow could be a great option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics to offer, so choose based on what feels best for your typing style.
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