Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that each has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is ideal for those who prioritize rapid response and smooth typing experience. With higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel, typists can expect a satisfying tactile feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch provides a tactile bump that offers a more pronounced feedback while typing. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback with each press. 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
N/A
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Purple switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects. However, the Outemu Purple switches also have nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gateron Box CJ. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Gateron Box CJ switches have nylon bottom housings, while the Outemu Purple switches have nylon bottom housings. This difference in bottom housing material affects the typing experience, as the qualities of the bottom housing material can impact the bottom-out sound and feel. The Gateron Box CJ's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper sound profile, while the Outemu Purple's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound when typing. However, both switches still maintain the sharp and crisp sound profile generated by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Purple switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Gateron Box CJ's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provides a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Outemu Purple switches offer a rounder sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing. Whether one prefers a crisper sound with a Gateron Box CJ or a fuller sound with an Outemu Purple may depend on individual typing preferences and the desired sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. In terms of bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams to fully press the key, while the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. This difference in bottom out force may result in a more substantial typing experience with the Purple switch, though the exact heaviness cannot be determined. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing feel may prefer the Box CJ, while individuals seeking a more pronounced and possibly heavier keystroke may lean towards the Outemu Purple. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that regardless of which one is chosen, users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. In summary, both the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Purple switches offer a travel distance of 4mm, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a specific distance when typing.
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 Purple 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, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This clacky sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, creating a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, described as mild to provide a gentle typing experience. This makes the switch approachable to most typists as it falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unknown, so a comparison based on feel cannot be made at this time.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound with a smooth push feel, making it a popular choice for typists seeking rapid response and a distinctive typing experience. The Outemu Purple tactile switch, on the other hand, lacks available information on sound and feel, so it's challenging to provide a direct comparison. However, both switches may deliver similar results depending on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, the best switch choice would depend on the preferences of the user in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize rapid response and smooth key presses with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience and are looking for a switch with no bottom out force listed, the Purple switch could be the one to go for. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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