Gateron Box CJ vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Jwick Taro offer distinct experiences for users. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the rapid response of speed switches with the smooth push feel characteristic of CJ switches. Typists can expect higher-pitched clacks and an effortlessly gliding typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch that provides a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Box CJ is categorized as clacky, mild, and neutral, the Taro is described as neutral, buttery, and stepped. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Jwick Taro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they may differ in terms of the overall design and aesthetics of the switches.
On the other hand, both the Box CJ and the Taro have nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material is a classic choice for switch housings and can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Despite both switches featuring nylon for their bottom housings, other factors such as spring weight and stem design may differentiate the sound and feel of each switch.
In terms of construction, the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently between the Gateron Box CJ and the Jwick Taro. The impact of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while both switches may share similar housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary based on the distribution of these materials within the switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different experiences for users. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Taro's unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, while the Taro needs 67 grams, making it heavier. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taro offers a medium-heavy typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial push feel for a tactile typing experience. Overall, the choice between the lighter Box CJ and the heavier Taro will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Taro switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being on the longer side and the Taro on the shorter side. Gamers may lean towards the Taro switch for its quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more tactile and substantial keypress may prefer the Box CJ with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched clacks, giving typists a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound produced by each switch will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Taro switch is noted for its stepped tactile sensation, offering a mild bump and a more nuanced typing experience compared to the CJ's linear feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky sound and mild typing experience, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a buttery feel with a medium level of tactility. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can expect different but equally satisfying results from each switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing an enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should weigh the factors of bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a swift response with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and acute clacks, the Taro switch would be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what feels best for you when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and the Jwick Taro switches.
Mentioned in this article
