Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Peach mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are distinct differences that can help you decide which one suits your typing style best. The Box CJ is designed for those who prioritize rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, while offering an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched sound. While both switches are categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Mild', they each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Peach lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box CJ utilizes nylon while the Peach also sticks with a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
Despite their different bottom housing materials, both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Peach switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the key press. This means that users can expect a crisp and high-pitched sound when typing on either switch, with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the Box CJ and the Peach may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics or specific typing feel desired.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ is slightly heavier, needing 57 grams compared to the Peach's 53 grams. This means that while both switches are considered medium-light in terms of actuation force, the Box CJ is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch can be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier switch can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the amount of distance the key travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both switches. Both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the travel distance, allowing users to expect similar results when typing on either switch. This demonstrates that the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Peach linear switches offer an equal amount of travel distance for key presses, providing a familiar and reliable typing experience for users.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 offers a clacky typing experience with sharp and snappy sounds, giving off a crisp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switches provide a low-pitched and mellow sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and soothing typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of neutral sound profiles, suitable for various users and settings. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Peach switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that typists can expect a gentle and approachable feel when using either of these switches. The qualities of these switches fall within a safe and comfortable middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in providing a fast and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, while the KTT Peach linear switch offers a syrupy smooth feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. Both switches offer a mild typing experience and have neutral sound profiles, making them versatile options for different preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Box CJ or the Peach switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your unique preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider the following guidelines: choose the Box CJ if you prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clacky sound, along with an incredibly smooth push feel. The unlubed nature of the Box CJ allows for customization or a raw smoothness experience. On the other hand, opt for the Peach if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile. Both switches have a moderate actuation force and offer a mild typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value speed and higher-pitched sound or a smooth and deep typing feel.
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