Gateron Box CJ vs. Gateron Ink Red

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, some key differences and similarities emerge. The Box CJ is a linear switch that combines the swift characteristics of speed switches with the iconic attributes of the CJ lineage, resulting in a switch designed for rapid typists seeking a higher-pitched clack and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Ink Red is also a linear switch but stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With a satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on. While the Box CJ is described as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Chirpy', the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Box CJ Linear

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Box CJ and the Gateron Ink Red both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, the polycarbonate in the Box CJ is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Box CJ uses nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, both switches share the same INK blend bottom housing, known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may affect the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, with the Box CJ offering a deeper sound due to its nylon bottom housing.

Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While the Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings create a unique clacky sound profile that is pointed and relatively high-pitched. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.

Weight

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both light to the touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams, while the Ink Red needs 60 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Box CJ, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Ink Red for a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both offer the same level of keypress experience. So, whether you choose the Gateron Box CJ or the Gateron Ink Red, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, characterized by sharp and snappy noises when pressed. This creates a crisp and bright typing experience that can be quite percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a chirpy element, giving it a unique acoustic signature. While the Box CJ provides a more pronounced and distinctive sound, the Ink Red offers a more subtle and versatile auditory experience.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. It is known for its smooth push feel that effortlessly glides under one's fingertips. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is lauded for its silky typing experience, characterized by exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Ink Red switch offers a polished finish, resulting in a refined and sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ is known for its clacky sound profile and mild feel, providing a more pronounced typing experience, while the Ink Red boasts a chirpy sound profile, silky feel, and polished finish for a smoother and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Box CJ offering a sharper sound and mild feel, while the Ink Red provides a smoother and more polished typing experience.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force and a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Gateron Box CJ would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall performance.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more