Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Box CJ
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Box CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer offers a unique experience with its tactile feedback and distinct sound profile. Evoking the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle, the translucent green Beer switches are lightweight and boast a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the characteristics of the CJ lineage with the swift response of speed switches. Typists can expect a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. While the Beer switch is known for its clacky sound and easy-to-press nature, the Box CJ offers a mild and neutral typing experience with a chirpy sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the Gateron Box CJ both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Box CJ switches also have a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. The softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Box CJ both offer distinct characteristics due to their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharp and clear sound in both switches, making them suitable for users looking for a crisper typing experience. However, the use of nylon in the Box CJ's bottom housing provides a different typing feel with a deeper sound compared to the Beer's all-polycarbonate construction. This variation in housing materials highlights how different plastics can impact the overall typing experience.
While the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Box CJ share similar polycarbonate top housings, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The split between the polycarbonate and nylon housing in the Box CJ results in a combination of both stiffer and softer qualities in the switch's sound and feel. On the other hand, the Beer maintains a consistent polycarbonate construction throughout. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique typing experiences worth exploring.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, we see differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. The lighter actuation force of the Beer allows for a smoother and quicker typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Box CJ provides a slightly heavier push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience favored by those who like a bit more resistance. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, but overall, the Beer is lighter while the Box CJ is slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Beer has a shorter travel distance compared to the Box CJ. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer unique experiences depending on individual preferences, with the Beer offering a quicker press and the Box CJ providing a bit more depth to each key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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.
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 Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, reminiscent of the crisp and percussive sound of a beer bottle being opened. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch also offers a clacky sound profile, along with a chirpy element that sets it apart with a unique acoustic signature. Both switches provide an engaging auditory experience, with the Box CJ offering a higher-pitched clack compared to the Beer.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and featuring a stepped tactility that offers a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience, being approachable to most users with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile response, with the Beer offering a more gentle typing feel and the Box CJ providing a smooth and swift typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide quality performance in their respective categories. Whether you prefer the light and clacky sound of the Beer or the higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel of the Box CJ, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Additionally, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get a similar level of satisfaction and customization options regardless of your choice between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and easy-to-press switch with a distinct clacky sound and a stepped tactility, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher actuation force and a smoother push feel with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch could be more to your liking. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize a unique tactile experience or a smooth, neutral feel when making your decision between these two Gateron switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of advantages and it will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
