Gateron Box CJ vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the contrast between the Gateron Box CJ and the Huano Sakura presents intriguing options for different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its rapid response and higher-pitched clacks, making it an excellent choice for those who crave speed and tactile feedback. Its smooth and unlubed design allows for a custom experience, catering to enthusiasts who wish to personalize their typing feel. In contrast, the Huano Sakura offers a feather-light touch that excels in comfort during lengthy typing sessions, coupled with medium acoustics that provide a softer sound profile. While both switches fall under the linear category, the Box CJ's pronounced clackiness contrasts with the Sakura's gentle touch. Each switch has its merits depending on whether you prioritize speed and customization or comfort during prolonged use. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Huano Sakura, we see distinct differences that influence the sound profile and typing experience. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This property makes polycarbonate an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications, as its translucency enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes a top housing made of POK material, or polyketone, which not only provides a smooth and clacky sound due to its lower friction coefficient but also boasts exceptional durability and strength. While both materials contribute to the overall sound, the polycarbonate in the Box CJ offers a clearer tone, whereas the POK material in the Sakura tends to produce a less aggressive sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches share a commonality with nylon as their material of choice. This particular plastic is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Gateron Box CJ and the Huano Sakura. The similarities in using nylon allow for a consistent tactile feedback across both switches, presenting users with a familiar typing experience. Given that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the use of nylon in both can lead to a rounded and cushioned stop when typing, making both switches appealing to users who prefer a softer auditory result.
Ultimately, the differing materials in the top housings mean that while both switches will have a warm, embracing bottom-out sound due to the nylon, their upper sound profiles will diverge based on the material choices. The Gateron Box CJ will produce a sharper, crisper sound as per its polycarbonate top, particularly when the key is released. In contrast, the Huano Sakura will lean towards a smooth, clackier sound profile, thanks to the properties of polyketone. Therefore, when these switches are employed, users can experience similar fundamental typing sensations at the bottom, but the sound experiences will vary distinctly when keys are actuated and released, making the choice between them a matter of personal auditory preference.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Box CJ features a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a slightly firmer keystroke, offering a substantial feel during typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sakura switch offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which caters to those who favor a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions or quicker inputs during gaming without excessive strain. Thus, the Sakura is the lighter option, while the Box CJ is heavier. These differences mean that typists seeking comfort over prolonged use may find the lighter Sakura easier on their fingers, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push may prefer the Box CJ for its more defined tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that provides a deeper feel when pressed. In contrast, the Sakura features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which may appeal to users who favor quicker responsiveness for gaming or fast typing. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive keypress, the Huano Sakura is the better choice with its shorter travel distance, while the Gateron Box CJ will be more suitable for those who prefer a fuller tactile experience. Overall, those who opt for the Box CJ will experience a greater depth in their keystrokes compared to the Sakura.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
The sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is characterized by higher-pitched clacks that give a sharp and snappy auditory experience. These switches produce a clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and engaging, providing an exhilarating typing auditory feedback for users who enjoy a lively soundscape. Additionally, the Box CJ can be described as slightly chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature that distinguishes it from other switches. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch is noted for its medium acoustics, which make it less pronounced in sound than the Box CJ. This sets the Sakura up as more muted and unobtrusive, allowing for a more focused typing experience without overwhelming auditory feedback, thus making it suitable for extended sessions, especially in quieter environments.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch delivers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, allowing for rapid typing without friction or resistance. This smoothness is particularly appealing for enthusiasts who appreciate a raw, unlubed experience or wish to customize the lubrication to enhance performance further. Described as offering a mild sensation, the Box CJ holds an approachable typing experience, striking a balance that appeals to a wide variety of users. The Huano Sakura switch, while its specific tactile feedback profile is unknown, is touted for its feather-light touch, suggesting an easy actuation that could facilitate longer typing periods without fatigue. However, while the Sakura's feel is lighter, it lacks the specific attributes of smoothness that the Box CJ has.
In summary, both the Gateron Box CJ and Huano Sakura linear switches offer unique characteristics tailored for different preferences. The Box CJ shines with its lively sound and exceptionally smooth feel, ideal for users seeking a more dynamic and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Sakura provides a quieter, less intrusive auditory footprint combined with a light touch, making it attractive for prolonged use. Depending on individual user preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, one might choose either switch, but it's clear that both provide distinct benefits that cater to varying typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Huano Sakura linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and intended use. If you prefer a switch that provides a slightly heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 57 grams, the Box CJ is an excellent choice. Its clackier sound profile and smooth action cater to those who enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience, particularly beneficial for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where every keystroke counts. Additionally, the unlubed nature of the Box CJ allows for customization, which can be enticing for enthusiasts looking to tailor their keyboard feel and sound further. On the other hand, if you value a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, the Huano Sakura switch will better suit your needs, especially for prolonged typing sessions. Its feather-light action offers a soft typing experience with medium acoustics, striking a balance between comfort and sound, making it ideal for those who type for long periods without fatigue. Ultimately, whether you prefer the Gateron Box CJ for its speed-focused design or the Huano Sakura for its easy-going, ergonomic feel, you have two high-quality options that cater to different aspects of your typing experience.
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