Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their unique characteristics and strengths. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the attributes of the CJ lineage with the swift characteristics of speed switches, ideal for those seeking rapid response. Typists can enjoy higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel that effortlessly glides. Additionally, the Box CJ comes unlubed, offering either a drier, raw smoothness or a blank canvas for customization with lubrication. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White is a linear switch that is notably quiet, perfect for those who prefer a more silent typing experience. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Silent White's categories are not specified. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent White switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, both switches also have a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Silent White differ in how they distribute these materials. The Gateron Box CJ features a split design with polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. When typing on the Gateron Box CJ, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's polycarbonate will impact the sound when releasing a key. In comparison, the Outemu Silent White utilizes both polycarbonate and nylon for both the top and bottom housing, respectively, allowing for a balanced sound profile when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent White may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, the Gateron Box CJ's split housing design may provide a more distinct typing experience with its combination of sharp polycarbonate and deep nylon sounds. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White's consistent use of both polycarbonate and nylon throughout may offer a more balanced sound profile overall.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Silent White has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The Box CJ is considered medium-light in terms of weight, making it easier to type on for longer periods without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent White is classified as a medium-weight switch, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, if actuation force is a key factor in decision-making, both switches will provide similar results.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Silent White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. The shorter travel distance of the Silent White may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Box CJ with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so determining the preference between the two will depend on individual typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar functionality in terms of actuation, despite the slight difference in 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 Silent White 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 clacky sound profile, offering typists a sharp and snappy feedback when pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Silent White linear switch's sound profile remains unknown. Moving on to the feel, the Box CJ switch provides a mild typing experience with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, catering to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent White switch is not specified. Overall, based on the available information, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound and a mild feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be a suitable choice. However, if the sound and feel characteristics are not critical factors for your decision, both switches may provide similar results in terms of performance and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Box CJ with 57 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prioritize a faster response time and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent White switch may be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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