Gateron Box CJ vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they each offer unique features and benefits. The Box CJ is ideal for those who prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clack sound, while also providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is known for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth operation, and pillowy feel. Both switches offer different characteristics – the Box CJ being more clacky and neutral, while the Silent Frozen (V2) is described as thocky, creamy, and buttery. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, making them suitable for RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile similar to the top housing.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials. The split between bottom and top housings allows for varying sound profiles depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ adds a depth to the typing sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) maintains a clear and resonant sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch, offering users a choice between a fuller sound or a crisper sound.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials offer unique sound profiles. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the type of typing experience and sound profile that the user prefers, whether it be a softer and rounder sound or a clearer and more resonant sound.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch's 39 grams, making the Silent Frozen (V2) the lighter option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams to fully press the key, while the Silent Frozen (V2) only needs 43 grams, making it the lighter option in this aspect as well. Both switches offer a smoother typing experience with reduced noise, but the Silent Frozen (V2) is better suited for those who prefer a lighter key press, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Box CJ provides a slightly heavier typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent Frozen (V2) has a slightly shorter distance compared to the Box CJ. This makes the Silent Frozen (V2) more ideal for those who prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Box CJ offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer smooth linear typing experiences, but the difference in travel distance may play a role in determining which switch is more suitable for individual preferences.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 qualities of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches, it is evident that they offer unique auditory experiences. The Box CJ is known for its clacky and neutral sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and quiet typing experience. While the Box CJ delivers higher-pitched clacks, the Silent Frozen switches offer an extremely quiet sound profile, catering to users who prefer a softer and more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound output.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches also exhibit distinct tactile sensations. The Box CJ is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the Silent Frozen (V2) switches provide a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches are known for their smooth and silky keystroke sensations, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a mild and gentle feel or a smooth and buttery glide, both the Box CJ and the Silent Frozen switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches each offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to various user preferences. While the Box CJ delivers clacky and higher-pitched sounds with a mild typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) switches provide thocky, low-pitched, and muted sounds with a creamy and buttery typing feel. Whether you prioritize sound output or tactile feedback in your typing experience, both of these switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound with a smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value an extremely quiet sound profile with a super smooth and pillowy feel, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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