Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch with the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is praised for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth and rapid response. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a distinct and sparkling sound profile that is truly unique. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Phoenix is described as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different users based on their typing preferences and requirements. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a pop of color and customization to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. While both switches offer similar qualities in their top housings, the difference lies in their bottom housings.
In contrast, the Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience. This means that while the top housing of the Box CJ contributes to a crisp and resonant sound on key release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel upon bottoming out a key. This distinction in bottom housing material highlights the importance of considering both components when choosing a switch that best suits your preferences.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Phoenix switches offer a unique typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities in sound profile and feel when typing. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a customizable and satisfying typing experience for users looking to enhance their keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it more conducive for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. While the Box CJ offers a lighter overall typing experience, the Phoenix offers a heavier push feel for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Phoenix may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Box CJ may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive for the user.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile. This produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright, providing a percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ providing a clackier tone and the Phoenix offering a crunchier sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is praised for its impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. This switch falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch present different sound and feel qualities to cater to varying preferences. While the Box CJ offers a clacky sound and a mild push feel, the Phoenix delivers a crunchy sound and a polished typing experience. Both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users based on their individual preferences. Those looking for a more pronounced audible feedback may prefer the Box CJ, while those seeking a smoother typing experience may lean towards the Phoenix. It is important to consider factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction when choosing between these switches to achieve the desired typing outcome.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a rapid and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clicky switch with a sparkling sound profile and under-skirt click mechanism, the Outemu Phoenix switch could be the perfect fit. Consider your desired bottom out force, sound profile (clacky, neutral, chirpy, crunchy), and feel (mild, polished) to make the best decision for your typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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