Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is designed for those who prioritize speed and rapid response, with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for those seeking a silent typing experience, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that reduces noise. While the Box CJ is known for its clacky and chirpy feel, the Zero Degree 0° offers unparalleled smoothness and stability. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Box CJ has a nylon bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
Despite having the same materials for the top housing, the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ in their bottom housing materials. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, each offers a unique typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the material's softer nature absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in the sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° play a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, creating a sharp and clear sound profile suitable for RGB lighting. The inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing further enhances the sound profile, with its softer nature producing a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Box CJ is considered medium-light with its bottom out force, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is lighter in terms of bottom out force, but since the exact measurement is unknown, it's difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier than the Box CJ. Overall, those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience may lean towards the Box CJ, while those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Zero Degree 0° more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Box CJ offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°, providing a traditional typing experience with a bit more depth. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for a quicker response time, often preferred by gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks that create a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to absorb sound and reduce noise, providing a silent typing experience. The Zero Degree 0° switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, while the Box CJ switch has a clacky and chirpy sound that sets it apart.
As for the feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, giving typists a gentle typing experience in the middle-ground zone. This switch is designed for rapid response and a comfortable typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its soft, elastic feel that provides unparalleled smoothness and stability. The Zero Degree 0° switch's innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure contribute to a unique typing experience that absorbs sound and reduces noise.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ switch is characterized by its clacky sound and smooth push feel, catering to those who prefer a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch excels in providing a silent typing experience with its soft, elastic feel and innovative design. Both switches offer unique benefits to users, and selecting between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should choose the Box CJ if you prioritize rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel. The Box CJ is also customizable when it comes to lubrication. On the other hand, opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you value silent typing, unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Consider your typing preferences and environment when selecting between these two switches to ensure the best match for your needs.
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