Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Weightlessness each cater to distinct preferences, offering users a unique typing experience. The Box CJ, with its linear design, is celebrated for its rapid response and impossibly smooth key presses, making it an excellent choice for gamers or typists who crave speed and efficiency. Its higher-pitched clacks provide a satisfying auditory feedback that adds to the thrill of typing, while the unlubed state presents enthusiasts with the opportunity to customize their tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch provides a more tactile sensation, striking a balance between comfort and feedback without overwhelming the user. Its moderate tactile bump creates a reassuring feel that's particularly appealing for those who prefer a blend of responsiveness and discernible feedback in their typing. This switch also boasts a balanced sound profile, making it versatile enough for various environments. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and Gateron Weightlessness switches provide contrasting auditory experiences, primarily due to their differing top housing materials. The Box CJ utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by its crispness. This is largely attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows the sound to resonate more clearly. Its translucency not only enhances acoustic properties but also makes it visually appealing when paired with RGB lighting setups, allowing for an immersive and vibrant aesthetic. In contrast, the Weightlessness features a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer texture. Consequently, this switch produces a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound waves, ultimately leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience.
When examining the bottom housings, we find that both the Box CJ and Weightlessness employ nylon in their constructions. This similarity results in a consistent auditory quality across both switches, as nylon inherently produces a more subdued sound profile. The characteristics of the nylon material mean that when typing on either switch, you'll experience that same deep and full sound that nylon provides, especially upon bottoming out. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the sound and tactile feedback during key presses, this commonality between the two switches ensures that users will notice this softer auditory response regardless of the top housing material.
In terms of overall sound dynamics when using these switches, the contrasting materials used in the top housings play a pivotal role. While the Box CJ's polycarbonate top contributes to a more pronounced sound upon release, the Weightlessness’s nylon top rounds out the acoustic experience, providing a smooth transition during typing. Users who prioritize a punchy and crisp sound with RGB compatibility may prefer the Box CJ, while those looking for a softer and subdued typing experience may gravitate towards the Weightlessness. However, the shared nylon bottom in both models ensures a consistent fullness in sound, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in shaping the user’s mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we see notable differences in actuation forces, but the bottom out force for the Weightlessness remains unknown, making a direct comparison in that regard challenging. The Box CJ has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, facilitating a comfortable typing experience ideal for long sessions, whether at work or during gaming. In contrast, the Weightlessness has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users may prefer. Since the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is not specified, we cannot assess how it compares to the Box CJ's bottom out force of 57 grams. Overall, the Box CJ is the lighter option, making it suitable for those seeking ease of use over extended periods, while the Weightlessness caters to those desiring a heavier, more pronounced switch feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find notable differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a more substantial feel upon pressing, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to gamers and users who prefer a quicker response time without the drag of a lengthier stroke. This shorter distance, while offering a snappier actuation, may feel abrupt for some who favor a more deliberate typing experience. Thus, if you prioritize speed, the Weightlessness is the better option with its 3.4 mm travel distance, whereas the Box CJ's 4 mm distance provides a more pronounced depth for those who enjoy a sturdier 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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 produces a distinct acoustic profile characterized by its higher-pitched clacks, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a more vivid auditory experience while typing. This switch is notably clacky and sharp, resulting in a crisp and bright sound that adds an engaging element to typing. The chirpy aspect further enhances its uniqueness, giving it a slight squeak that sets it apart from more traditional linear switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch lacks detailed sound descriptions in the provided data, making it difficult to compare precisely; however, it is generally acknowledged that tactile switches maintain a balanced sound profile, likely delivering a more subdued auditory feedback than the Box CJ.
When looking at the feel of these switches, the Gateron Box CJ offers an impressively smooth typing experience, characterized by its mild mechanical feel. This provides a gentle yet satisfying touch that is ideal for typists seeking comfort without overstimulation. The Box CJ's unlubed nature allows it to maintain a raw, natural smoothness, providing an opportunity for customization. Conversely, the Weightlessness switch also offers a tactile feel, but specific descriptors for its tactile sensation were not provided. If its tactile feedback aligns closely with typical tactile switches, users can expect a subtle to moderate response that makes each keystroke feel engaged without being overly aggressive.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch stands out with its clacky, bright sound profile and smooth, mild feel, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback and customization options. Meanwhile, while the sound and feel characteristics of the Weightlessness switches remain less defined, they likely offer a more subdued auditory experience with a balanced tactile sensation. Combining this information, typists can expect distinct experiences from each type, and while the Box CJ may cater to those seeking a lively sound and customization potential, the Weightlessness switches may be ideal for those who prefer a moderate tactile feel, ensuring versatility in both options depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a swift, responsive experience where every keystroke is punctuated by a resonant, clacky sound, the Box CJ is an exceptional fit, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing. Its medium-light actuation force and smooth feel make it ideal for users who enjoy a more rapid and engaging interaction with their keyboard. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that balances tactile feedback with a more neutral sound profile, the Weightlessness would cater to your needs, especially in environments where subtlety is key, such as an office setting. The moderate tactile feel allows for comfortable typing without overwhelming the auditory experience, making it perfect for longer typing sessions. Thus, consider your specific requirements regarding feel, sound, and the intended atmosphere of use to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and overall preferences.
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