Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Strawberry. The Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the hallmark attributes of the CJ lineage, resulting in a switch designed for rapid response. Typists will experience higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is also a linear switch known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, the Strawberries offer a low-pitched, frictionless typing experience that is often described as silky, buttery, and polished. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Strawberry is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, where the Box CJ differs is in its nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This contrast in bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound experience and feel of typing on each switch.
Despite the shared polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Strawberry diverge in their bottom housing materials. While the Box CJ utilizes nylon for its bottom housing to produce a more absorbent and duller sound, the Strawberry sticks with polycarbonate for consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. This choice in housing material for the bottom of the switch may influence the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the sound and feel of bottoming out the keys. The contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the different approaches taken by each switch manufacturer in achieving their desired sound profiles.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the sound profile of a switch, it is important to recognize how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. With the Gateron Box CJ, the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing are complemented by the nylon bottom housing, creating a balanced typing experience with a mix of sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry maintains consistency in its sound profile by using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. This difference in housing materials may result in distinct typing experiences, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the feel of bottoming out keys and the top housing impacting the sound when keys are released.
Weight
Overall, when comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is clear that they are quite similar in terms of weight. The Box CJ has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams, while the Box CJ also has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams in comparison to the Strawberry's 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium weight category, offering a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial feel. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and feedback from both of these switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is evident that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key press depth. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a smooth and efficient keystroke without requiring too much force. Whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you can expect similar results when it comes to key travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who value a reliable and efficient keyboard switch.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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 neutral characteristics, producing sharp and snappy sounds that are suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a low-pitched tone that is more mellow and bass-heavy, providing a quieter typing experience overall. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on personal taste and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable and comfortable for most users. The switch provides a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, making typing sessions enjoyable and efficient. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, all contributing to an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience. This difference in feel between the two switches may appeal to different preferences in typing feedback and keypress sensations.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Strawberry switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. If you enjoy a clacky and neutral sound profile with a smooth push feel, the Box CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, frictionless, and buttery typing experience, the KTT Strawberry switch would be a suitable option. Regardless of which switch you choose, both will provide a high-quality typing experience that can enhance your overall productivity and enjoyment while using your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the nuances of each switch. If you prioritize rapid response, 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 value smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance in a switch with a lower-pitched sound profile, the KTT Strawberry might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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