Gateron Box CJ vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Box CJ is a linear switch known for its high-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, making it ideal for those who desire rapid response and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to your typing while offering a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. While the Box CJ is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Viola Tricolor is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bassy', 'Invigorating', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its unique qualities that may cater to different preferences, 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Box CJ and Viola Tricolor differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Box CJ using a nylon bottom housing and the Viola Tricolor featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics.
In terms of sound profile, the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ slightly due to their housing materials. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that enhance the overall sharpness of the sound produced, the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch. However, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of materials used in their housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the difference in bottom housing materials offers distinct characteristics in the overall sound produced. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Box CJ or a deeper sound with the Viola Tricolor, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Box CJ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Viola Tricolor, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the Viola Tricolor a more medium-heavy option, while the Box CJ falls into the medium-light category. The variation in force between the two switches impacts the typing feel and responsiveness, with the Viola Tricolor providing a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box CJ being slightly longer than the Viola Tricolor. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Box CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a clacky and bright sound that provides a sharp and percussive auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds depth and richness to the typing sound profile. Depending on personal preference, the Box CJ switch may appeal to those who enjoy a crisper and more vibrant sound, while the Viola Tricolor switch may be preferred by individuals who appreciate a deeper and mellower tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, offering a smooth and effortless push feel that is gentle on the fingers. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch delivers an invigorating tactile feedback that is accentuated without being overwhelming, providing a satisfying level of tactility without sacrificing comfort. Those who enjoy a pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation may prefer the Viola Tricolor switch, while individuals seeking a more approachable typing experience may opt for the Box CJ switch.
Overall, both the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Box CJ switch leans towards a clacky and mild typing experience with higher-pitched sound qualities, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a bassy and inviting tactile feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Box CJ linear switch or the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing experience. If you prioritize speed, smoothness, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility that strikes a balance between feedback and smooth typing, the Viola Tricolor switch would be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so it's important to consider what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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