Gateron Box CJ vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Yunhai both present compelling options for those who favor a linear feel, yet they cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Gateron Box CJ is celebrated for its swift response and high-pitched clacks, making it ideal for gamers and typists who thrive on speed and precision. Its unlubed design allows for a raw, smooth push feel, providing enthusiasts the opportunity to fine-tune their experience with custom lubrication. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai captures the attention of those seeking a more gentle and effortless typing experience, characterized by a deep, rounded sound profile and a notably light actuation force. While the CJ leans towards a more tactile auditory experience suitable for fast-paced environments, the Yunhai offers a cozy, softer touch perfect for long typing sessions. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Yunhai switches, a distinct difference arises in their choice for the top housing material. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the switch’s sound profile by producing a sharper and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, allows sound waves to resonate more clearly, which can be particularly appealing to users who prefer a brighter sound signature, especially when using RGB lighting, as the material’s translucency allows light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Yunhai employs a nylon top housing, known for its softer qualities, which contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This choice leads to a more subdued auditory experience, as nylon absorbs sound waves rather than amplifying them, creating a rounder sound character.
Interestingly, both switches are equipped with nylon bottom housings, which means that they share a similar impact in terms of sound and feel at the bottom-out point. The nylon material, being softer than polycarbonate, absorbs sound better, thereby contributing to a cushioned typing experience that can appeal to users who prioritize a muted auditory feedback while typing. This shared material can bridge the experience between both switches when it comes to the feel and sound upon key actuation. Since the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound, the similarity in this aspect leads to a deeper and fuller sound signature for both the Box CJ and Yunhai when pressed to their fullest extent.
Thus, the differing materials of the top housings create a notable contrast in sound profiles, while the uniformity in the bottom housing both utilizes nylon’s properties effectively. Users can experience distinct auditory effects when releasing a key due to the crisper sound from the polycarbonate top of the Box CJ compared to the more muffled response of the Yunhai's nylon top. However, once the key is fully pressed down, the two switches converge in delivering a softer, deeper sound owing to their identical nylon bottom housings. This duality presents an interesting opportunity for users, as they can select based on their preferences for key release sound while knowing that both switches will provide a consistently pleasant typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in their specifications. The Gateron Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light in feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it firmly within the light category. This difference indicates that keyboard users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Yunhai more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the slightly heavier Box CJ. Overall, the Gateron Box CJ offers a firmer typing experience, while the TTC Yunhai provides a softer, more agile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yunhai is shorter at 3.6 mm. This distinction means that the Box CJ provides a deeper, more traditional feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a pronounced key press. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Yunhai caters to users looking for quick responsiveness, making it preferable for gaming or fast-paced typing. While both switches have their unique advantages based on travel distance, if you value a more substantial actuation, the Gateron Box CJ would be the better choice, whereas the TTC Yunhai is ideal for those seeking speedy performance.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 linear switch showcases a distinctive profile that can be characterized as clacky, neutral, and chirpy. The clacky nature of the switch produces a sharp and bright sound when pressed, adding a lively auditory experience to your typing. This high-pitched acoustic quality may appeal to those who enjoy a more expressive feedback in their keystrokes. Coupled with a neutral sound profile, the Box CJ remains versatile and suited for both novice and experienced typists alike, making it an excellent choice for various environments. However, other factors like the keyboard itself and keycap choice can significantly influence the overall sound quality. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches do not have specific sound characteristics provided; hence, their acoustic performance remains largely unknown.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch brings a notably smooth and mild experience. This smoothness is a hallmark of the CJ lineage, allowing for effortless gliding during typing, which can be particularly satisfying for users looking for less resistance and a more fluid experience. The mild nature of the switch means it offers a balanced typing feel, appealing to a broad range of users, from casual typists to enthusiasts who might appreciate its adaptable qualities. Unfortunately, the feel of the TTC Yunhai switches is unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare or assess how they might differ in a tactile experience.
In summary, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch excels in sound with its clacky and expressive profile, alongside a smooth, mild feel that caters to various user preferences. Its unlubed nature allows enthusiasts flexibility for customization, although this choice can translate to differing experiences depending on personal modification. Meanwhile, the TTC Yunhai's characteristics remain uncertain, positioning the Box CJ as a more defined option for those seeking a specific auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, if sound and feel are critical factors for you, the Box CJ will likely provide a more predictable experience, while the Yunhai requires further exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, your choice largely hinges on your typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a responsive switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 57 grams, the Box CJ might be your ideal companion, especially if you're looking for a switch that facilitates rapid typing and delivers a clackier sound profile that can be quite satisfying. Its smooth push feel, combined with the option to customize lubrication, makes it a great pick for enthusiasts who want to tailor their experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, will likely serve you better. The Yunhai’s deep, rounded sound and gentle actuation will appeal to those who prioritize comfort and a quieter typing experience, whether at home or in a shared workspace. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard provides the best experience suited to your needs.
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