Gateron Box CJ vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch known for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, providing a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, offering a very approachable tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Box CJ may appeal to those seeking rapid response and a customizable lubrication experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is ideal for those who prefer a bouncy feel. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, there are some similarities as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also ideal for switches with clear housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. However, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences in housing materials between the Box CJ and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring impact the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring adds to the sharper and crisper sound profile. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt more, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing of each switch will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key.
Overall, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. Understanding how different housing materials affect the overall typing experience can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can see that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Gateron Box CJ has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow, which requires 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron Box CJ is heavier at 57 grams, whereas the Aflion Shadow requires 55 grams. Overall, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. It is essential to consider personal preference when choosing between the two, as some may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Gateron Box CJ, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and tactile feedback provided by these switches will be consistent in terms of travel distance. Users can expect similar results when using either switch due to their matching travel distances, resulting in a comparable typing experience between the two switches.
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) Single 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) Single 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, the Box CJ is known for its higher-pitched clacks, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as clacky. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, creating a more muted and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Box CJ leaning towards a bright and percussive sound while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a more subtle and soothing typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ is described as providing an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering typists a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively and responsive feel when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ focusing on a smooth and effortless typing experience while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a more dynamic and bouncy feel.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While the Box CJ provides higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel for a sharp and snappy typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy tactile feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more sharp and crisp typing experience or a more dynamic and responsive feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid response, smoothness, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with approachable tactility, lower actuation force, and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you while typing.
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