Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron CJ offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile bumps. With its high-pitched, accented, and invigorating characteristics, typing on the Box Jade is a delight for those who appreciate crisp clicks and a crunchy feel. On the other hand, the CJ presents a unique take on linear switches. While typing on the CJ, users will notice higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. Categorized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky, the CJ offers a refreshing and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch that suits your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron CJ switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Box Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its stiffer plastic composition leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced and vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, without being overly sharp. This results in a satisfying clacky sound that some users find appealing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Box Jade utilizes a nylon material, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This can be preferred by typists who enjoy a more muted and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switches feature a POM bottom housing, which offers an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. POM housings create a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron CJ switches differ, they both contribute to the overall sound experience in different ways. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the user presses down on the switch. The properties of the top housing, on the other hand, influence the sound that is produced when the key is released. So even though they may use different materials, both switches can provide similar results in terms of the sound they produce during typing, offering options for users with different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, we can observe that both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches require 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke and 60 grams of force to bottom out. This medium level of force provides a balance between typing ease and tactile feedback. Therefore, individuals looking for a consistent typing experience in terms of force required can expect similar results from both switches. However, it is worth noting that weight preference can vary among individuals. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of these switches as it allows for longer typing sessions without finger fatigue. This characteristic is ideal for professional environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the most traditional travel distance, the CJ is closer at 4.0 mm, while the Box Jade falls on the more shallow end at 3.6 mm. However, it is important to note that recently, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Box Jade with its shorter travel distance may be the better option. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for them, the CJ with its longer travel distance may be preferred for a more substantial and satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 CJ for $5.35.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Jade switch is best described as high-pitched and crunchy. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, which is perfect for those who prefer a more vibrant and energetic sound profile. Additionally, the crunchy nature of these switches, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch offers a different sound experience. It is described as chirpy, featuring a slight squeak that sets it apart from other switches. The CJ switch also has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The low-pitched characteristic of these switches adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is characterized as accented and invigorating. These switches provide a medium tactile experience with a prominent amount of tactility, striking a balance between being overwhelming and subtle. The invigorating nature of these switches offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch offers a more mild typing experience. With its gentle characteristics, it provides a comfortable and approachable feel for most users. The CJ switch stands in a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring that the sound and feel remain pleasant without being overly dominant.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron CJ switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, as well as an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the CJ switch presents a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with chirpy sound characteristics and a mild feel. Both switches have their own appeal and cater to different preferences. If you enjoy vibrant and energetic typing with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, the Box Jade is the best choice for you. If you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience with a slight squeak, the CJ switch will provide the desired qualities. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, as they can influence the overall sound of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you want a unique and enjoyable linear switch, the Gateron CJ switches are a great choice. They offer higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel.
In terms of sound, the Box Jade switches have a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, which is ideal if you prefer sharp and crisp sounds. On the other hand, the CJ switches have a chirpy and neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, the CJ switches also have a low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switches are accented and invigorating. They offer a medium tactile feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the CJ switches offer a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and the Gateron CJ linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a clicky switch with medium-heavy typing experience and crisp clicks, go for the Box Jades. If you want a unique and enjoyable linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switches are a great option. Consider both the sound and feel profiles described and choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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