Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Phalaenopsis stand out as two distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that offers a swift and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile bump and minimizing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Phalaenopsis, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Gateron Box CJ differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, known for its softness, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis opts for polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, emphasizing a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch.
The choice of housing materials in the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Phalaenopsis switches ultimately influences the sound and feel of typing on each switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they diverge in the bottom housing material. The Gateron Box CJ's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, harmonizing with the characteristics of the top housing for a more uniform typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Phalaenopsis demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches leverage polycarbonate for the top housing to achieve a sharp and crisp sound profile, the differentiation in the bottom housing material highlights the varying characteristics of each switch. Whether experiencing the deeper sound of nylon in the Gateron Box CJ or the consistent clarity of polycarbonate in the KTT Phalaenopsis, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force at 37 grams, compared to the Box CJ's 45 grams. Similarly, the Phalaenopsis also has a lighter bottom out force at 50 grams, compared to the Box CJ's 57 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis may be the better choice. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Box CJ with its heavier forces may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance between the two switches, they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Users can expect consistent results in key press depth when using either of these switches, as they both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Overall, both switches provide a comparable typing experience in terms of 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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, delivering sharp and snappy noises with each key press. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience, with the choice of board and keycaps further influencing the overall sound produced.
When it comes to feel, the Box CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is referred to as stepped, providing a tactile bump with two stages of feedback. The Phalaenopsis switch aims to minimize finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, while the Box CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly under the fingertips. Both switches have their own distinct feel that caters to different preferences in typing feedback.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Box CJ switch offers a clacky sound and mild feel, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy sound and stepped feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience and offer unique characteristics that can appeal to different users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Phalaenopsis switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you desire a swift and smooth typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Box CJ may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump for a more effortless typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Box CJ leaning towards a clacky sound and the Phalaenopsis offering a bassy, thocky sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or lightness and tactility in your typing experience.
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