Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, is designed for those who crave rapid response and higher-pitched clacks during typing. It provides an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, appealing to users who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience with a tactile bump that provides feedback when the key is actuated. While the Box CJ is categorized as clacky, mild, neutral, chirpy, the Dustproof Brown does not have any specific categorization. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and requirements. 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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, while the Dustproof Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone.
While both switches share similar characteristics in their top housing material, the distinction lies in their bottom housing material. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing and the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muted tone compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This split between top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Brown share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp and clear sound profile suitable for RGB lighting. However, their nylon bottom housing materials provide distinct characteristics, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The combination of these housing materials influences the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ has a lighter force of 57 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's heavier force of 65 grams. This difference in bottom out force means that the Dustproof Brown switch offers a more substantial typing experience compared to the Box CJ. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Box CJ for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Brown for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distance is the same, which means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feeling and actuation point. This makes them both ideal choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance for their switches. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Gateron Box CJ or the Outemu Dustproof Brown comes down to personal preference in terms of switch type, rather than 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown 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
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. These switches provide a clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. The lack of lubrication allows for a raw expression of smoothness or customization to suit individual preferences. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the Box CJ. However, it can be assumed that the Dustproof Brown switch may offer a more neutral or moderate sound profile and a mild typing experience, based on the absence of distinct descriptors.
Overall, if you are looking for a swift and responsive typing experience with clear and crisp sound feedback, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more middle-ground typing experience that is approachable to most users, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch could potentially provide a comfortable and versatile option. Keep in mind that personal preference, typing style, and usage scenarios will ultimately dictate which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prioritize a light typing experience with swift response and smooth gliding action, the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Dustproof Brown could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
