Gateron Box CJ vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the hallmark attributes of the CJ lineage, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ makes typing effortless, and the option to customize the lubrication allows enthusiasts to tailor it to their exacting standards. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is also a linear switch known for providing a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While the Gateron Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the SP-Star Polaris Gray is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetics of the keyboard. However, the Box CJ differs with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While the polycarbonate top housing in both the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, the difference lies in the materials used for their bottom housing. The softer nylon bottom housing in the Box CJ offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, contrasting with the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing in the Polaris Gray, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing.
In conclusion, the housing materials used in switches such as the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Box CJ stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on the sound and feel of a switch can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we see some notable differences. The Gateron Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This means that typing on the Gateron Box CJ may require less force to actuate keys compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect consistent results in terms of keypresses and overall feel when using either of these switches. The similarity in travel distance between both switches allows for a seamless transition between different keyboards equipped with these switches, ensuring a comfortable and consistent 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 offers a clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch features a low-pitched sound profile, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Box CJ. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments. Whether you prefer the sharp clacks of the Box CJ or the deep "thocky" sound of the Polaris Gray, your choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound of the switches.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that both switches provide a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Box CJ is noted for its impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, while the Polaris Gray is described as having a bouncy typing experience. Additionally, the Polaris Gray is referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for different preferences in typing experiences. The Box CJ provides a clacky, higher-pitched sound with a smooth push feel, while the Polaris Gray offers a low-pitched, bouncy typing experience with a polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as your specific typing environment.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a swift and clacky typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and clean typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Polaris Gray switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure you are satisfied with your keyboard switch selection.
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