Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, to the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift characteristics, providing a rapid response for typists who appreciate higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze lacks specific standout features but falls under the clicky switch category. While the Box CJ is best for those seeking a smooth and fast typing experience, the Spring Breeze may appeal to individuals who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Spring Breeze, the key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box CJ and the Spring Breeze utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches highlights how they may produce a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, demonstrating the importance of a well-balanced combination of housing materials for an optimal typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Spring Breeze showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches. The use of polycarbonate in the Box CJ's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze results in a deeper and fuller sound. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of a balanced combination of housing materials for a well-rounded typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch show some slight differences. The Box CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the Spring Breeze needs 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required. The differences in force may result in a slightly lighter feel when typing on the Spring Breeze compared to the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with some preferring the slightly lighter touch of the Spring Breeze and others opting for the slightly heavier feel of the Box CJ.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance travelled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience to the user. Whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance. Both switches are equal in this aspect.
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 Spring Breeze 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 well-known for its clacky and higher-pitched noise, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This unique sound profile can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a defined sound profile provided, so it is difficult to compare. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. This switch falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback, making it suitable for a wide range of typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a described feel, so a direct comparison is not possible.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth push feel, making it a popular choice for users seeking rapid response and tactile feedback. While the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks detailed information on sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should opt for the Box CJ if you prioritize a swift response, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel. The unlubed nature of the Box CJ allows for customization to suit your preferences perfectly. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and are indifferent to specific descriptors for sound and feel, then the Spring Breeze may be the better option for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and priorities to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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