Gateron Box CJ vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for merging the features of the CJ lineage with the swift properties of speed switches, catering to those who prioritize rapid response times. This switch offers a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth pushing sensation, making it a favorite among typists. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its utilization of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that complements its smooth linear action. This switch provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Sky V4 is characterized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
POK
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This quality is consistent between both switches, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound. However, the top housing of the Box CJ is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V4 uses POK material for its top housing, offering a smooth and clacky sound with superior durability.
In terms of aesthetics, the Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for users who enjoy customizing their setups. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4's POK top housing may not offer the same translucent properties, but it boasts exceptional durability and smoothness that make it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting switch. Despite their differences in material composition, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housing contributing to a deep and full sound profile.
Overall, while the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Sky V4 have different top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Box CJ offering a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Sky V4 provides a smoother and more durable typing experience with its POK top housing. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to the needs of discerning typists.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, slightly heavier than the Sky V4's 55 grams. This means that the Box CJ provides a slightly stronger push feel for those looking for a more substantial typing experience, while the Sky V4 offers a slightly lighter feel. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force, making them suitable options for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm of the Sky V4. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Box CJ offers a slightly deeper keypress experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Sky V4 with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfactory travel distance, providing users with a comfortable typing experience.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 offers a clacky experience with higher-pitched clacks that provide a sharp and snappy sound, making each keystroke precise and satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 produces a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone that adds a sense of depth to the typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory sensations, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether you prefer the clacky sound of the Box CJ or the thocky sound of the Sky V4, you can expect a high-quality sound profile from either switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that sits comfortably in the middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of typists. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively bounce when pressed. The contrasting sensations between the smooth glide of the Box CJ and the bounce of the Sky V4 cater to different preferences in typing feel, providing a personalized typing experience for each user.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing sensations that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the clacky sound and smooth push feel of the Box CJ or the thocky sound and bouncy feel of the Sky V4, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a swift response with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and a rich typing experience with innovative POK material in the top housing, the Dareu Sky V4 switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, so it comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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