Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, appealing to typists who prioritize rapid feedback and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a quieter typing experience with a cushioned bottom-out feel, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is clear that they each offer unique sound profiles based on their composition. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials lead to distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ may be more suited for those looking for a clear and sharp sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black provides a satisfying and clacky typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the contrast between the Box CJ's nylon and the Silent Ink Black's INK blend is more subtle. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound due to its softer composition. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, offering a slightly different typing experience compared to the nylon bottom housing. Overall, both materials provide a unique typing feel and sound profile to enhance the overall typing experience.
Although the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Silent Ink Black vary, they each bring distinct qualities to the typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more when bottoming out a key, affecting the overall sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to the preferences of different users based on their desired sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ is lighter in both aspects. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Box CJ allows for a smoother and easier keystroke, while the heavier actuation force of the Silent Ink Black provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with some preferring the lighter feel of the Box CJ for longer typing sessions, and others opting for the heavier push of the Silent Ink Black for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning the user will experience the same level of keypress sensation when using either switch. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth pressing experience with the same travel distance, making them ideal for users who prefer a linear switch with a standard travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and travel distance.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky and crisp sound profile, giving typists a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a quiet and muted sound, perfect for environments where minimal noise is desired. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box CJ will provide a more pronounced and percussive typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black will deliver a softer and quieter sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing typists with a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you prefer a gentle and approachable typing experience, the Box CJ is the way to go, while the Silent Ink Black will provide a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, you can choose between the clacky and crisp attributes of the Box CJ or the quiet and cushiony feel of the Silent Ink Black. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize speed and enjoy a higher-pitched clack with an incredibly smooth push feel, the Box CJ switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the better choice. Keep in mind that the Box CJ switch offers a clacky sound profile and a mild typing feel, while the Silent Ink Black switch provides a muted sound and a silky, polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what attributes are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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