Gateron Box CJ vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is ideal for those who value rapid response and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, making it perfect for typists seeking a swift and precise feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch stands out with its distinctively clacky sound, bouncy typing feel, and resonant audio feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile and engaging typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through effectively. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow switches have different bottom housings, with the Box CJ featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Cream Yellow featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Box CJ switch results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Box CJ switch. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a different typing experience with a potentially clearer and crisper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. While both the Gateron Box CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow switches offer polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Box CJ's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the KTT Cream Yellow's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a different sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch influences the overall typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, with 45 grams and 57 grams for actuation and bottom out force respectively, as opposed to 50 grams and 58 grams for the Cream Yellow switch. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium category in terms of force required. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Box CJ for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier push feel of the Cream Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Despite the slight difference, both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for keyboard switches. The Box CJ offers a bit more depth in key travel, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking faster input. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 clacky nature, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This switch offers a high-pitched clack that sets it apart from others, providing a distinct auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is also described as clacky, offering a similarly sharp and snappy sound. Therefore, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch provides typists with an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly during typing sessions. Its mild characteristics offer a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Conversely, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its bouncy typing feel, thanks to its lengthened spring that provides a uniquely lively feedback sensation. While the Box CJ offers a smooth and mild typing experience, the Cream Yellow provides a bouncy and elastic feedback that enhances the overall typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is tailored for those seeking rapid response with its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel. The unlubed nature of the switch allows for customization to meet individual preferences. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offers a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, coupled with a bouncy typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and gentle typing experience (Box CJ) or a bouncy and lively feedback (Cream Yellow).
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ and KTT Cream Yellow switches, consider the following factors. If you prioritize swift response and a smooth push feel with a higher-pitched clack, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and smoothness or clacky sound and bouncy feedback in your typing experience. Now that you have a better understanding of the attributes of each switch, you can make an informed choice based on your preferences and typing style.
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