Gateron Box CJ vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift and smooth typing experience, providing rapid response and higher-pitched clacks that cater to typists who value speed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound profile, appealing to those looking for a gentler typing experience. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Duck is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes polycarbonate ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the differences arise in the bottom housing material. The Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Duck opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, matching the top housing material to maintain a sharper and clearer sound profile overall.
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Duck showcase how different materials can affect the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, their respective bottom housings differ. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile and a rounder feel due to its softer nature, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing to maintain a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout typing. These differences cater to individual preferences, with the materials influencing the overall sound and typing experience of each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the SP-Star Duck highlight how material choices impact the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing results in a similar sharp and clear sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the Box CJ's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. This showcases how a combination of different housing materials can provide unique typing experiences, from the initial keypress to the release of a key, allowing users to tailor their keyboard setup to their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is 57 grams, slightly lighter than the Duck's bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches provide a medium feel, with the Box CJ leaning towards a lighter typing experience. The actuation force of the Duck is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of actuation force. Overall, those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Box CJ, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the SP-Star Duck.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. The travel distance of these switches being equal means that users can expect consistent keypress experiences regardless of which switch they choose to use.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound that is more neutral in comparison. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, with the choice of the sound being also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The SP-Star Duck switch also offers a mild typing experience with a gentle tactility, along with a buttery and polished feel that provides a smooth and refined typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that falls within the safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a comfortable and pleasant typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a sharp and snappy sound with a smoother push feel or a clean and crispy sound with a gentle tactility, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid response and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs. Remember to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
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