Gateron Box CJ vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Venus stand out as unique options to consider. The Box CJ, a linear switch, is celebrated for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, perfect for those who value rapid response. On the other hand, the Venus, also a linear switch, boasts a seamless glide and a unique "Q-texture" that offers a smooth and engaging typing experience. While the Box CJ is known for its clacky and mild feel, the Venus is characterized by its buttery and gummy 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
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
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Venus, we can see that they both use polycarbonate in their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, making it especially ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper sound profile, while the Venus's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Box CJ providing a more clear and resonant sound, while the Venus offers a unique and pleasing deep sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box CJ utilizes nylon, while the Venus utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, aligning with its top housing material. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, with the Box CJ offering a softer and fuller sound, while the Venus provides a sharper and clearer sound.
Overall, the combination of housing materials used in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. The qualities of each material, whether it be polycarbonate, POM, or nylon, influence the sound profile and feel of the switch when typing. While both the Gateron Box CJ and TTC Venus feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the use of different bottom housing materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. Whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound, the choice of housing materials in a switch can cater to individual preferences and enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
Both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them light to press for quick and efficient typing. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box CJ requires a slightly higher force of 57 grams compared to the Venus's 52 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel. This means that the Venus switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Box CJ switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in force catering to individual preferences for typing feel and feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Venus with 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ offering a more standard distance while the Venus is slightly shorter. Gamers may favor the Venus for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and desired key feel.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 neutral sound profile, delivering crisp, bright, and percussive tones with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound that minimizes noise, creating a softer and quieter typing experience overall. Both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound, with the Box CJ offering a sharper and snappier tone while the Venus delivers a more mellow and subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, providing a mild and approachable typing experience suitable for most users. The TTC Venus linear switch, on the other hand, boasts a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel that is characterized by a seamless, almost trampoline-like keystroke experience. With both switches offering unique tactile sensations, typists can expect a comfortable and engaging typing experience with slightly different nuances in feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, suited for users seeking rapid response and precision. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch stands out with its muted and balanced sound signature, coupled with a buttery and frictionless feel that ensures effortless and engaging typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles, and providing a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you value a swift response with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique "matte" sensation with a light actuation and a muted sound signature, the TTC Venus could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of smoothness when making your decision between these two exceptional linear switches.
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