Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is known for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing a smooth push feel that appeals to typists seeking rapid feedback. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is celebrated for its maximum tactility, offering a sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack for those who crave a punchy typing experience. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the POM T1 (Sunflower) is categorized as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on 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
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ may be preferred for those seeking a crisper sound, especially when coupled with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The housing materials of the Box CJ and the POM T1 (Sunflower) also differ in their bottom housing composition. The Box CJ incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower). The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) contributes to its deeper and muted sound profile. These different bottom housing materials further contribute to the overall sound experience of each switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer unique sound profiles, the impact of each housing material can be felt differently during typing. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience with their respective housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Box CJ has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, while the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it the heavier option. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, while the POM T1 offers a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Box CJ would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the POM T1 for its heavier force requirement. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that both offer a consistent user experience in terms of key press depth. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. This makes them both ideal choices for individuals who prefer a standard travel distance for their typing or gaming needs.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy noises when pressed. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound profile, with a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp tone during typing. While the Box CJ provides a clacky and slightly chirpy sound, the POM T1 delivers a resonant and clean clack, catering to different preferences in sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ makes for an effortless typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, delivering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. The accented nature of the POM T1 switch creates a medium tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still prominent and satisfying for tactile enthusiasts.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Box CJ switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a mild typing experience ideal for those seeking a smooth and effortless push feel. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch stands out for its resonant sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, offering a satisfyingly clean clack and distinct tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on the individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches providing unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. If you prefer a clacky sound and a mild feel, the Box CJ would be the way to go, while if you desire a resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, the POM T1 switch would be more suitable for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and smoothness in your typing experience, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. The higher-pitched clacks and effortless glide of the Box CJ appeal to those seeking rapid response and a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you value maximum tactility and a satisfying tactile bump, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. The sharp tactility and clean clack of the POM T1 offer a distinct typing sensation for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound, feel, and overall typing experience that best aligns with your preferences.
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