Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Peach both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the attributes of the CJ lineage, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. Additionally, the Box CJ offers an incredibly smooth push feel that can either be enjoyed in its raw, unlubed state or customized with lubrication to suit individual preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach is also a linear switch that stands out for its lightweight and silenced nature, offering a feathery light typing experience that is perfect for those who prioritize a subtle and polished typing feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Peach, we see that the Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Peach utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Box CJ is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Peach's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. However, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box CJ and the Peach feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, known for its softer composition, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. This similarity in housing materials for the bottom of the switches showcases how both the Box CJ and the Peach prioritize creating a unique typing experience with their sound profiles. Despite the differences in their top housings, the nylon bottom housings offer a similar typing experience that emphasizes a deeper sound profile.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a crucial role. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. The distinct characteristics of the polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Box CJ and the Peach highlight how different materials can contribute to varying sound profiles and typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch both offer differing levels of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Peach's 40 grams, making the Peach the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the Peach only needs 50 grams, making the Peach lighter in this aspect as well. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Peach would be the more suitable choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, if a stronger push feel is preferred for more substantial typing, the Box CJ would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and the desired amount of force required for key actuation.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Box CJ offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Peach, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Peach's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for a quicker response time. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being slightly longer than the Peach. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel 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 Outemu Peach comes in at $3.40 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 switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched noise, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a muted and quieter sound, ideal for those looking for a more subtle typing noise. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Peach switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, with characteristics falling in the safe middle-ground zone. The Box CJ switch is praised for its incredibly smooth push feel, while the Peach switch is noted for its feathery light typing experience, perfect for linear switch enthusiasts. Additionally, the Peach switch is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with slight variations in feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Peach switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ switch is known for its clacky sound and smooth push feel, appealing to those seeking a rapid response. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch provides a muted sound and light typing experience, ideal for linear switch enthusiasts looking for a gentle typing feel. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them versatile options for a variety of users. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a swift and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with silenced operation, the Outemu Peach linear switch would suit your needs perfectly. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and clacks or prefer lightweight and silenced typing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so consider your preferences and requirements before making your selection.
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