Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a heavy typing experience and delivers a satisfying sound signature, the Kailh Box Navy switches may be the perfect fit for you. These clicky switches are reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, with a heftiness and sound that truly stands out. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and enjoyable linear switch, the Gateron CJ is worth considering. With higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, these switches offer a different take on the linear switch experience. The CJ switches are categorized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky, making them distinct from the clicky nature of the Box Navy. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
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 Navy and the Gateron CJ switches offer distinct characteristics and sound profiles. The Box Navy features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate plastic provides a clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the CJ switch utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This blend produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. While both materials result in unique sound profiles, the Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing offers a higher-pitched sound compared to the CJ's INK blend.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Navy utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the CJ switch features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing. This material creates a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, but it is relatively more muted. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Navy offers a deeper and more resonant sound compared to the CJ's POM bottom housing.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feeling when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Box Navy and CJ switches may have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams, while the CJ requires a slightly lighter 50 grams of force to actuate. This means that the CJ will feel more responsive and easier to trigger compared to the Box Navy. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Box Navy requires a heavier 90 grams of force, whereas the CJ is lighter at 60 grams. Therefore, typing on the Box Navy will provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience due to the heavier push feel, whereas the CJ will offer a smoother and lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the CJ, while those who enjoy a stronger push and more tactile feedback might opt for the Box Navy. In terms of weight, the Box Navy is heavier on both counts, while the CJ offers a slightly lighter option for both actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the CJ switch is considered more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box Navy switch is shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke with a deeper travel distance, the CJ switch may be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual preference and typing style.
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 Navy 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience. Typing on these switches will produce a higher-pitched sound profile with clean and sharp tones, reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch provides a chirpy and neutral sound. These switches have a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak, setting them apart from others. Additionally, they have a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Moreover, the CJ switch offers a low-pitched thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying experience when pressed. Overall, while the Box Navy and CJ switches have different sound characteristics, both can deliver an immersive auditory experience depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity. With each keypress, you can distinctly feel the tactile bump. Additionally, they require more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch offers a mild typing experience. They offer a more gentle feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most users, striking a safe middle-ground. While the CJ switch may not provide the same level of intensity as the Box Navy, it still offers a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Navy provides a resonant and crunchy sound with a sharp and invigorating feel. It is best suited for those seeking a heavy and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switch offers a chirpy and neutral sound with a mild and approachable feel. It caters to a broader audience, providing a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation. While the two switches may differ in their qualities, both options can deliver satisfying results depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you crave a heavy typing experience with a clicky switch and appreciate the nostalgic sound and tactile feel reminiscent of vintage keyboards, then the Kailh Box Navy switches would be an ideal choice for you. Their bottom out force of 90 grams provides a weighty feel, while their resonant and crunchy sound profile offers an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, the Gateron CJ switches are worth considering. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, they offer a more moderate typing experience. The CJ switches produce higher-pitched clacks and provide an impossibly smooth push feel, making your typing sessions satisfying.
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Navy switches deliver a clean and sharp resonance, creating a higher-pitched sound profile that replicates the experience of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Gateron CJ switches, in contrast, offer a chirpy acoustic signature, setting them apart from other switches. They also provide a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switches offer a sharp and invigorating typing experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keystroke. These switches are also on the stiffer side, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switches provide a more mild and approachable typing experience, catering to a wider range of users who prefer a gentler feel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron CJ switches depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider whether you desire a heavy and tactile clicky switch or a unique presentation of a linear switch. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, allowing you to customize your keyboard to your liking.
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