Gateron Box CJ vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key factors to consider. The Box CJ is renowned for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, offering typists a smooth and rapid response experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel with each keystroke being a pleasure to type, thanks to its UHWMPE housings. While the Box CJ is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Tangerine is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TKC Tangerine switches, there are notable differences in the materials used. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Box CJ is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE provides a newer and distinct sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Box CJ employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. The nylon of the Box CJ absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the UHWMPE of the Tangerine provides a newer and unique sound experience. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is clear that each material contributes its own unique qualities. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Box CJ and Tangerine switches may use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the resulting sound profiles will be a combination of the qualities of each material, offering users a diverse range of experiences based on their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Box CJ being slightly lighter overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Box CJ, while those who prefer a bit more resistance and a solid feel when typing may prefer the TKC Tangerine. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will get a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. As a result, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the TKC Tangerine, you can expect a consistent travel distance when using either 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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct auditory experiences. The Box CJ provides a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, with a higher-pitched clack that delivers a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched, crisp sound that is pleasing to the ears. Depending on personal preference, individuals may lean towards the distinct clack of the Box CJ or the smoother, high-pitched sound of the Tangerine.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ and TKC Tangerine switches offer different tactile experiences. The Box CJ switch presents an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless and buttery, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with a fluid travel. The UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine switches contribute to the overall polished and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing sensation.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Box CJ provides a clacky, sharp sound and a mild typing experience, the Tangerine offers a smoother, higher-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual desires. Whether one opts for the distinctive clack of the Box CJ or the smoothness of the Tangerine, both switches are sure to enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile with a smooth push feel, then the Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile, and an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience, then the Tangerine switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what attributes you value most in a keyboard switch and what typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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