Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer distinct experiences for typists. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its rapid response and smooth push feel, delivering higher-pitched clacks and a neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf provides a tactile feedback with a unique typing sensation. While the Box CJ offers a customizable unlubed option for enthusiasts to fine-tune their experience, the Maple Leaf remains a mystery in terms of its characteristics. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Outemu Maple Leaf. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in housing materials affects the overall typing experience, with the Box CJ offering a more distinct and defined sound while the Maple Leaf provides a richer and more rounded sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Maple Leaf utilize nylon material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will have a similar impact on sound and feel when pressing down on keys. This similarity in housing material between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent tactile and auditory experience when using either switch, with the differences in sound profile primarily driven by the top housing material.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it becomes apparent that each housing material brings distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The split between polycarbonate and nylon housing in the Gateron Box CJ and the all-nylon housing in the Outemu Maple Leaf affects the sound profile when pressing down on keys and releasing them. While the Box CJ offers a sharper and crisper sound on key release due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Maple Leaf provides a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout the typing process. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material choice in determining the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that the Box CJ is the lighter option. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it fall into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Box CJ, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Maple Leaf. Both switches provide distinct levels of feedback due to their different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Box CJ offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel compared to the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Box CJ for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, with the Box CJ offering a longer travel distance and the Maple Leaf providing a shorter one. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
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 Maple Leaf 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 and higher-pitched characteristics, creating a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an incredibly smooth push feel that is described as mild. This means that typists can expect a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not specified, so it is challenging to provide a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, if sound and feel are crucial factors in choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch may be the preferred option due to its clacky sound and smooth push feel. However, it is essential to consider all available information and potentially try out both switches in person to determine which one aligns best with individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience, so choosing between them may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the preferred bottom out force and typing experience you desire. If you value a lighter bottom out force and a swift response with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
