Gateron Box CJ vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko Penguin offer distinct characteristics for different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch known for its rapid response and high-pitched clacks, providing a smooth pushing feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments with its rounded tactile bump and medium weight that balances responsiveness and comfort for prolonged typing sessions. While the Box CJ offers a clacky and neutral typing experience, the Penguin provides a polished and muted feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko Penguin, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the differences arise in the top housing material used. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing, which generates a rounder and duller sound.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Gateron Box CJ provides a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Penguin's nylon top housing offers a softer and more muted sound, appealing to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the differing top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko Penguin housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their unique sound profiles attributed to their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light actuation forces. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Penguin has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin is slightly heavier with 60 grams compared to the Box CJ's 57 grams. While both switches fall under the category of medium force, the Penguin provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Box CJ may be the preferred option. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Akko Penguin for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference based on desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. A travel distance of 4 mm is more traditional and provides a deeper keypress feeling, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a hearty depth when typing. On the other hand, the Penguin's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, offering a more responsive and quicker typing experience that is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more traditional travel distance or a shorter, more responsive one.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 switch is best described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive feedback to typists. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing noise for a quieter typing experience in office settings. The Penguin switch is a great choice for those who prioritize a noise-reduced environment, while the Box CJ switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced and tactile sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a smooth and effortless push feel, gliding effortlessly with each press, creating a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch provides a polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek feel. Additionally, the medium weight of the Penguin switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ switch provides a clacky sound and a mild typing experience, perfect for those seeking rapid response and smooth key presses. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted sound profile and a polished feel, ideal for quiet environments and comfortable typing sessions. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, both switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a swift and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a silent tactile switch with a rounded tactile bump for office environments, the Penguin switch would be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your personal requirements and enjoy the typing experience that suits you best.
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