Gateron Box CJ vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a linear switch may find themselves torn between the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Poseidon. The Gateron Box CJ offers a unique combination of CJ lineage attributes with swift speed switch characteristics, providing typists with rapid response and higher-pitched clacks. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ is effortless and unmatched, whether left unlubed for a raw expression of smoothness or customized to perfection with lubrication. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Poseidon remains a mystery in terms of standout features, but its blank slate nature may appeal to those seeking a more versatile switch. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
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
stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Poseidon, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Poseidon's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housing materials differ in their sound profiles, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, albeit with distinct auditory characteristics.
Moving onto the bottom housing materials, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. Similarly, the Poseidon's POM bottom housing also produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by enhancing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
It is worth noting that the distribution of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt more prominently when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Box CJ and Poseidon may have different top and bottom housing materials, they both provide unique and satisfying typing experiences, showcasing the impact of housing materials on switch sound profiles.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, while the Poseidon's bottom out force is unknown. The Box CJ offers a medium-light typing experience, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the Poseidon's actuation force is even lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. However, without knowing the bottom out force of the Poseidon, it's challenging to determine how it compares in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Poseidon may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Box CJ may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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 higher-pitched clacks, giving typists a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This clacky sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. The feel of the Box CJ switch is described as impossibly smooth, offering a glide-like push feel that is effortless. It falls into the category of a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Poseidon switch.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel qualities, providing typists with a satisfying and efficient typing experience. The Poseidon switch, on the other hand, lacks specific information on its sound and feel characteristics, making it difficult to directly compare to the Box CJ. If you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound and smooth feel, the Gateron Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch that offers rapid response, smooth pushing feel, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and are open to exploring a unique option, the Poseidon might intrigue you. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and your typing habits when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer different characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and typing preferences.
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