Gateron Box CJ vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) present two intriguing options for those seeking a linear switch experience, each with its distinct characteristics and appeal. The Box CJ is celebrated for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, making it an excellent choice for typists who prioritize speed and a slightly mechanical sound while enjoying an incredibly smooth typing feel. Its unlubed nature invites customization, allowing enthusiasts to personalize their switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) focuses on delivering unparalleled smoothness with its Ly stems, coupled with a resonant sound profile that enhances the overall feedback while typing. This switch offers a more muted sound experience than the Box CJ, catering to users who prefer a quieter yet still satisfying touch. Both switches cater to different preferences, making the decision reliant on individual typing styles and sound preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Box CJ Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice contributes to a sound profile characterized by sharpness, high pitch, and clarity, which is consistently evident in both models. The polycarbonate's stiffness plays a significant role in producing a more resonant tone, enhancing the overall auditory experience of the switches. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making both switches suitable for users seeking aesthetic appeal alongside functional performance.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Box CJ and the Tomcat (Heavy) are both made from nylon. This material choice contrasts with polycarbonate in terms of sound profile characteristics; nylon offers a deeper and fuller auditory experience due to its softer texture. This implies that when typing on these switches, users will notice a more muted sound profile, deriving from nylon's ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. Thus, while both switches present cohesive sound qualities within each material type, they offer a distinctive auditory experience depending on where the sound originates—top or bottom.

Ultimately, the combination of both housing materials in each switch ensures that users will achieve a balanced sound profile. Since both the Gateron Box CJ and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) employ polycarbonate for the upper half and nylon for the lower half, the resulting acoustic experience will highlight the sharp and crisp tones from the top while simultaneously providing the full-bodied sound from the bottom. The interplay between these materials creates a comprehensive tactile environment, allowing for a harmonious and enjoyable typing experience regardless of which switch is utilized.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Box CJ features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This distinction means that the Gateron Box CJ is the lighter switch, suited for users looking for a less strenuous typing experience, which is advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the heavier Tomcat switch provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer response in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference regarding the balance of actuation force and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Gateron Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference can impact the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Those who appreciate a more traditional and deeper typing experience may prefer the Box CJ for its greater travel distance, while gamers and users seeking quicker response times might gravitate towards the Tomcat for its reduced travel. Therefore, depending on your typing style preference, one switch could offer a more fulfilling or efficient experience than the other.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch features a combination of clackiness, chirpiness, and a neutral tone, producing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. Typists can expect a brighter, more resonant sound when typing, akin to a light percussion against the keycap that makes each keystroke pronounced. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) has no specific sound characteristics detailed, leaving its auditory experience unknown. However, it is noted that sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used, suggesting that users might find satisfactory results with either switch under different configurations.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ offers a smooth yet mild experience. This pleasant push sensation aligns well for typists who appreciate a drier, simpler feel that encourages a more effortless typing rhythm. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) is explicitly attributed with a super smooth sensation thanks to its Ly stems, indicating a focus on providing a pleasurable tactile response that may surpass the Box CJ in smoothness. However, due to the lack of detailed descriptions regarding the Tomcat's specific feel characteristics, a gauge for comparison is limited.

Taking all available information into account, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch stands out for its combination of sharp auditory characteristics and a mild yet smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for those seeking pronounced feedback in their typing. The Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), while less defined in sound and feel specifics, promises a smooth typing experience with its Ly stem design. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and enjoyment might vary based on individualized experiences and set-ups, but they could yield similarly satisfying results, especially in terms of smoothness, should one experiment with both in a well-chosen environment.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the intended use case. If you value a responsive and smooth typing experience with a medium-light force of 57 grams, the Box CJ will likely suit you well, especially if you enjoy a clacky and slightly chirpy acoustic profile that adds character to your typing. This switch is ideal for both casual typing and fast-paced gaming, making it a versatile option for users who want quick actuation and a customizable feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial push with a bottom-out force of 64 grams, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a deeper sound profile and a solid typing feel, perfect for those who appreciate a heavier switch for more deliberate key presses. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who are looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback and a richer auditory experience without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, both switches have their distinct strengths, and your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a lighter, speedy touch or a heavier, more resonant typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more