Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean are both linear switches that offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Gateron Box CJ is praised for marrying the characteristics of CJ switches with the swift response of speed switches, resulting in higher-pitched clacks and a remarkably smooth typing feel. Additionally, these switches come unlubed, allowing for customization based on individual preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for its silence during keystrokes, perfect for those who prefer a quieter 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, both switches benefit from the aesthetic appeal of polycarbonate, as its clear housing allows for a visual look into the inner workings of the switch.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box CJ utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the slight difference in the feel of the housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their use of nylon for the bottom housing.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the bottom housing material is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, giving each switch its unique sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, adding another layer of complexity to the typing experience. Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience with a focus on sound quality and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Box CJ being better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use, and the Silent Ocean being ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a significant role in determining the typing experience it will offer.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. Users can expect consistent results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation with either switch. The travel distance of these switches allows for a smooth and linear typing experience, making them ideal for users who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to other switch types.
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 Silent Ocean 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 sound profile, giving typists a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, described as mild in terms of typing experience. This means typists can expect a gentle and approachable sensation while typing. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a clacky and higher-pitched sound with a smooth and mild typing feel. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are relatively unknown, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, opting for the Gateron Box CJ switch may be a more informed choice based on the available information. Remember to consider personal preferences and other factors like keyboard setup and keycap choice when selecting the ideal switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a rapid response and smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams combined with the clacky sound and mild feel make it a well-rounded option for typists seeking a reliable and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
