Gateron Box CJ vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Box CJ is praised for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and a two-staged spring design. While the Box CJ is more neutral and mild, the Shadow switch is described as sharp, snappy, and bouncy. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, the Box CJ has a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housing, the different bottom housing materials greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ contributes to a deeper sound profile and a more cushioned typing experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. This split in housing materials means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when using the switches – with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials offer users a variety of sound profiles and typing experiences to choose from.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more cushioned typing experience, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a softer, more rounded sound or a clearer, more resonant sound, the housing materials of these switches offer distinct qualities for users to consider when selecting a switch for their keyboard setup.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch. The Box CJ requires 45 grams of force for actuation and 57 grams for bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 55 grams for actuation and 63 grams for bottom out. This makes the Box CJ ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for more substantial typing feedback. Both switches offer a medium-weight option, with the Box CJ being on the lighter end and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring leaning towards the heavier side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they offer a similar key press experience in terms of travel distance, giving users a consistent feel when typing or gaming. The identical travel distance ensures that users will get a similar tactile feedback and actuation point with both switches, making them suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance. With both switches offering the same travel distance of 4mm, users can expect a consistent typing experience between the two options.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 characterized by its clacky and neutral profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, making it suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a high-pitched sound with deep, resonating thocks that stand out during typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and accompanying components like keycaps and keyboard layout.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp and snappy tactile feedback, with an accented and snappy quality, providing a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. The bouncy and responsive nature of the Shadow switch adds a lively sensation to typing sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging feel for users.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ switch is best suited for those seeking a swift, higher-pitched clacky sound with an impossibly smooth push feel, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch caters to individuals looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks during typing. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, providing enthusiasts with a variety of options to customize and tailor their mechanical keyboard setup. Whether opting for the Box CJ or the Shadow switch, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that aligns with their preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a linear switch with a swift response and a smooth push feel, the Box CJ is the ideal choice for you. The higher-pitched clacks and the option to customize lubrication to your preference make it a popular option among typists seeking speed and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect fit. The long, two-staged spring provides a unique typing experience that emphasizes feedback intensity and keypress responsiveness. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness (Box CJ) or tactility and feedback (Shadow (Ink) Double Spring) in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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