Gateron Box CJ vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Sea Glass, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Box CJ is designed for those who value rapid response and smooth typing, with a higher-pitched clack and a customizable lubrication option. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass offers a unique typing experience with pastel colors, a distinct dryness, and a weightlessness that defies expectations. While the Box CJ is known for its clacky and neutral feel, the Sea Glass stands out for its frictionless and easy-to-press nature. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Box CJ stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is relatively stiff, resulting in a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to the overall design. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, offering a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. This blend provides a different typing experience compared to the Box CJ's polycarbonate, showcasing a softer and rounder sound quality.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Box CJ utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass also incorporates the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in its bottom housing, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing. This unique blend offers a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile, complementing the overall typing experience of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Durock Sea Glass differ in composition, both switches are designed to enhance the sound and feel of typing. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the stiffer and crisper sound of the polycarbonate in the Box CJ or the unique blend of materials in the Sea Glass, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, the Box CJ has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Sea Glass has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Box CJ switch will require less force to fully press the keys compared to the Sea Glass switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Box CJ being lighter and the Sea Glass being heavier in this regard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being slightly longer than the Sea Glass. Gamers may prefer the Sea Glass for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of 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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature, adding a distinct touch to the typing experience. Depending on the user's preference, the Box CJ provides a loud, percussive sound, while the Sea Glass offers a softer, airier sound that may appeal to those looking for a more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing typists with a comfortable and consistent typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switch is known for its frictionless nature, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Additionally, the Sea Glass switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Gateron Box CJ switch provides a clacky typing experience with smooth push feel, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a hollow sound signature with a frictionless and lightweight typing feel. Users looking for a louder and more pronounced typing experience may prefer the Box CJ switch, while those seeking a softer and gentler typing feel may appreciate the qualities of the Sea Glass switch. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results based on the user's individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you'd want to go for the Box CJ if you prioritize swift response, higher-pitched clacks, and a smooth push feel. These switches come unlubed, allowing for customization to your liking. On the other hand, opt for the Sea Glass if you prefer a unique typing experience with a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness. Despite the 62g bottom-out force, these switches offer a weightless feel and a hollow sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the Box CJ and Sea Glass switches comes down to your preference for speed and smoothness versus a distinct feel and sound profile in your mechanical keyboard.
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