Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, it becomes apparent that they each offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its marriage of the CJ lineage attributes with the fast characteristics of speed switches, making it ideal for those in search of rapid response. Typists can expect higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow remains a mystery in terms of its key features but falls under the linear switch category. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Silent Yellow's characteristics remain undisclosed. If you're looking for a switch that offers rapid response and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Box CJ might be the way to go. 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
2.20 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 Silent Yellow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual appeal when using them.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box CJ and the Silent Yellow opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. This classic switch housing material is favored by many for its tactile typing experience and overall sound quality. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches offer a consistent typing experience that prioritizes acoustics and feedback.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow may differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are equally important. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile typing experience that is enhanced by the softness of nylon. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when keys are released, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience that caters to sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience, which some may find more satisfying for precision typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they provide a similar typing experience in terms of key press depth. Both switches offer a consistent 4mm travel distance, ensuring that users will get a similar tactile feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either switch. Whether you choose the Box CJ or the Silent Yellow, you can expect a smooth and precise typing experience with the same 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 Yellow 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 higher-pitched clacks, resulting in a crisp and bright sound that can be described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is silent and does not have any described sound characteristics. This means that if sound is a crucial factor for you, the Box CJ will provide a more audible typing experience compared to the Silent Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing typists with a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's feel is unknown. If typing feel is important to you, the Box CJ may provide a more tactile and smooth typing experience compared to the Silent Yellow.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is best suited for those who seek a rapid response with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you may opt for the Box CJ if you enjoy a clacky and smooth typing experience. If you prefer silent switches, the Silent Yellow could provide a quieter typing experience, although its sound and feel qualities are unknown at this time. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched clacky sound with a smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that matter most to you.
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