Gateron Box CJ vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are several factors to consider. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift characteristics and rapid response, providing typists with higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, delivering a lively and crisp typing experience. While the Box CJ offers a drier, raw smoothness and customization options for enthusiasts, the V3 Piano Pro provides a pleasing tactile experience with a variety of characteristics such as bouncy, creamy, and polished. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches provide unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while also allowing for translucency that enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound with its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tonality. Both materials bring their own distinct sound qualities to the switches, catering to different preferences for typing feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box CJ and the V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile by absorbing sound and creating a duller and rounder tone during typing. This consistency in housing material for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience remains similar between the two switches, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound profile favored by nylon construction. While the top housing may have a greater impact on key release sound, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel, making it an essential component in determining the switch's overall sound characteristics.
In summary, the choice of housing materials for the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches significantly influences the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the Box CJ's top housing delivers a sharper and more resonant sound, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent sound experience in terms of sound absorption and rounder tonality during typing. Whether opting for a crisper sound with the Box CJ or a fuller sound with the V3 Piano Pro, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch have similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ is slightly heavier at 57 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of weight, which can cater to different preferences. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Piano Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Box CJ for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 3.5 mm travel distance on the V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly quicker response time compared to the 4 mm travel distance on the Box CJ. Gamers may prefer the V3 Piano Pro for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster reaction times during gameplay. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and may prefer the more traditional 4 mm travel distance offered by the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and responsiveness.
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 V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise that is crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a resonant sound profile, with higher-pitched tones that provide an immersive auditory experience. Both switches deliver unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. Additionally, the Piano Pro switch is noted for its creamy and polished qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that enhances overall comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Box CJ is known for its clacky sound and mild feel, while the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its resonant sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to customize their typing experience to suit their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most. If you prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clack sound, along with the option to customize lubrication to your liking, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation for a lively and crisp typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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