Gateron Box CJ vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and Akko V3 Silver Pro are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for different types of users. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the characteristics of the CJ lineage with the swift attributes of speed switches, making it ideal for those seeking rapid response times. Typists will appreciate the higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is also a linear switch but is specifically engineered for gamers, with each keystroke gliding effortlessly and producing a pleasing bassy sound. The V3 Silver Pro features a light actuation force and shortened travel distance, making it advantageous in scenarios where every millisecond matters. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Silver Pro feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Despite both switches having the same material for their top housing, the overall sound and feel may differ based on other components.
In contrast, the Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing, users may notice a difference in the feedback and overall typing experience compared to switches with a different bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound, feel, and aesthetics of the keyboard. While both the Gateron Box CJ and the Akko V3 Silver Pro share a polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials, such as nylon, can create variations in sound and typing experience. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall switch design can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we see that the Box CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 40 grams. The bottom out force of the Box CJ is also heavier at 57 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro is lighter at 45 grams. The Box CJ provides a medium-light feel, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Box CJ. Both switches offer similar performance in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, we can see that the Box CJ has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more satisfying keystroke feel may opt for the Gateron Box CJ with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched tones, providing a sharp and snappy sound when typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as high-pitched, delivering a crisp and sharp sound with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, some may enjoy the bright and percussive sound of the Box CJ while others may prefer the sharper sound profile of the V3 Silver Pro.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a smooth push feel that effortlessly glides during typing, providing a mild and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is engineered for easy key presses with a creamy and feathery sensation, offering minimal resistance and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Those who prefer a more polished and smooth typing experience may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while others may appreciate the unique glide of the Box CJ.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box CJ provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound with a mild and smooth typing feel, suitable for those who seek rapid response and smooth key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers a high-pitched sound and easy-to-press sensation, ideal for gamers looking for fast actuation and comfortable typing. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for different users.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it really comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are someone who prioritizes rapid response and a smoother typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Gateron Box CJ switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a pleasing bassy sound, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what attributes are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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