Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each with their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is renowned for its combination of CJ lineage attributes and speed switch qualities, providing typists with a swift and highly responsive typing experience. With higher-pitched clacks and a remarkably smooth push feel, the Box CJ offers enthusiasts the option to customize lubrication to their liking. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a short travel distance for rapid actuation, a thocky sound, and an incredibly smooth and lightweight touch. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Smoothie Silver's categorization is not provided. Both switches have their own unique selling points, making them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both excel in their ability to enhance the typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Box CJ incorporates a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM bottom housing that contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. Both bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, catering to different preferences based on the user's typing experience.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both switches offer high-quality performance and sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ provides a clear and resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a deeper and more muted sound. Likewise, the nylon and POM bottom housings offer unique sound profiles that enhance the typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a range of options for users to customize their typing feel and sound based on their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Box CJ slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Smoothie Silver. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force may not be as substantial as the Box CJ's, making it a potential choice for those who prefer a lighter overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we see that the Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Box CJ, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a slightly longer key press compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance. Despite the difference in length, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. Gamers may prefer the Smoothie Silver for its shorter travel distance, leading to faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 offers a clacky experience with higher-pitched clacks that provide a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not described in terms of sound, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the Box CJ's clacky sound contrasts with the purported thocky sound of the Smoothie Silver, which suggests a deeper and more resonant typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for providing an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that appeals to a wider range of users. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's feel is not described, leaving its tactile feedback and overall typing experience somewhat ambiguous. Without this information, it is challenging to directly compare the feel of the two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and mild typing feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a swift and smooth typing experience. Although the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's sound and feel qualities are not specified, it is worth noting that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Box CJ and Smoothie Silver will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize rapid response and a high-pitched clacky sound, along with a smooth push feel and customization potential, the Box CJ switch is your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and the characteristics that matter most to you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what aligns best with your typing experience.
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