Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Taichi offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, despite both being linear switches. The Gateron Box CJ is recognized for its swift response and vibrant, higher-pitched clacks, making it an enticing choice for those who prioritize speed and a more audible typing experience. Users can appreciate its smooth push feel, although it comes unlubed—providing either a raw expression of smoothness or an opportunity for enthusiasts to apply their preferred lubrication for a customized touch. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch captivates with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem and specially designed components that enhance smoothness and stability. While the Box CJ may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced auditory experience, the Taichi might attract users looking for a serene yet satisfying typing sensation. 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
N/A
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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Taichi switches utilize similar housing materials, specifically polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of this relatively stiff plastic allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate an articulate auditory feedback during typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially with RGB lighting, but also ensures a coherent light diffusion that accentuates the visual aspect of these switches.
On the other end, both switches also share nylon as the material for the bottom housing. The characteristics of nylon create a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a contrast to the brightness of the polycarbonate. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience when the keys are actuated. This combination ensures that while the tops of both the Box CJ and Taichi switches deliver clarity and crispness, the bottoms deliver warmth and depth, providing a well-rounded auditory experience when typing.
However, the distinctive roles of each housing in a switch must be noted, as they result in a unique interplay of sound and feel during use. For instance, while the top housing's material primarily influences the sound quality when a key is released, the bottom housing's characteristics strongly impact the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when pressed. Therefore, although the Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Taichi switches share the same type of materials, it is this harmonious balance between the clarity of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon that helps achieve a cohesive sound profile and tactile experience when typing or gaming, resulting in a unified user experience.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch present different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light and providing a balanced feel suitable for both long typing sessions and gaming. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press and thus appealing for extended use; however, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is not specified. While we can determine that the Box CJ is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, the unknown bottom out force for the Taichi limits our ability to fully contrast their tactile experiences. Overall, users seeking a lighter touch may prefer the Taichi for its lower actuation force, whereas those desiring a slightly firmer feel might gravitate towards the Box CJ’s features.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit differing travel distances, which can significantly affect their tactile responses during use. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that provides a deeper keystroke for those who enjoy a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to users who favor a swifter response time due to its more rapid activation. While both switches cater to different preferences—one prioritizes depth and the other responsiveness—the Taichi's shorter travel distance may feel too abrupt for those who appreciate the gradual keystroke of the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on an individual's preference for either that extra depth or quicker actuation.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 evaluating the sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Taichi linear switches, the Box CJ is known for its distinctive higher-pitched clacks, resulting in a bright and percussive auditory experience. Users can expect a crisp, sharp sound that adds a lively character to typing sessions. The Box CJ incorporates elements that deliver a chirpy quality, making each keystroke resonate with a unique acoustic signature. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Taichi switch remain unspecified, leaving an unknown element in terms of its auditory presence. However, it's worth noting that sound profiles can be affected by factors such as the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps, which play a significant role in the overall acoustic output.
In terms of feel, the Box CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push experience, which typists appreciate for its gliding nature. This is complemented by a mild action, offering users a gentle typing experience that is approachable for a wide audience. The careful design promotes stability and smoothness during use, setting a comfortable standard for typists. Conversely, details regarding the feel of the Bsun Taichi switch are not provided, so its tactile experience remains unknown. This lack of information makes direct comparisons in feel challenging; however, it’s essential to consider that both switches fall under the linear category, suggesting that they may share some characteristics.
In summary, the Gateron Box CJ switch stands out with its bright, clacky sound and smooth, mild feel, making it a suitable choice for those looking for an engaging typing experience. While the Bsun Taichi switch offers potential advantages with its long-pole design aimed at delivering smoothness, much of its auditory and tactile characteristics remain unspecified, rendering a full comparison incomplete. Ultimately, both switches cater to users who appreciate linear responses, but the Box CJ provides a more defined auditory and tactile interaction, making it a noteworthy option for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Box CJ and Bsun Taichi linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a responsive typing experience with a medium-light bottom-out force and appreciate a high-pitched clack that adds a lively tone to your keystrokes, the Box CJ is an excellent contender. Its unique characteristics, including smooth push feel and the option for customization through lubrication, make it a versatile choice for typists and gamers alike who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, if you are drawn to the idea of a switch that emphasizes stability and effortless smoothness, with an enchanting sound profile, the Bsun Taichi may be the better option—provided you can find it at a reliable retailer. In both cases, your choice should align with what you find most appealing in your mechanical typing experience, whether that be the delightful sounds and customizable nature of the Box CJ or the silky smoothness and enchanting acoustics of the Taichi.
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