Gateron Box CJ vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Lime are both popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Box CJ is a linear switch known for its swift response and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with an incredibly smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that offers a lightweight feel, approachable tactility, and a silent typing experience. While the Box CJ is perfect for those seeking rapid response and a clacky typing feel, the Lime is ideal for tactile fans who prefer a lighter touch and subtle tactility. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Lime switches both use nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Lime's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Box CJ's top housing also allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Outemu Lime's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, the differences between the Box CJ and Outemu Lime become more apparent. The bottom housing material of a switch has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, with both switches utilizing nylon for this component. This results in a similar typing experience in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the nylon bottom housing. However, the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ creates a unique sound profile that is sharper and crisper, while the nylon top housing of the Outemu Lime absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Box CJ and Outemu Lime switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials greatly impact the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Box CJ's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound, as well as offering the benefits of translucency for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Outemu Lime's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, absorbing more sound for a softer typing experience. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on the desired sound and feel, with the housing materials playing a key role in shaping these characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box CJ has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lime switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Box CJ's slightly heavier forces may be preferred by users looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and the desired level of force required for each keystroke. Both switches offer different weights, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Box CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Lime offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide different experiences, with the Box CJ being longer and the Lime being shorter, catering to different preferences based on individual needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Lime switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 Gateron Box CJ switch is known for producing a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a more muted sound profile, which minimizes noise and provides a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, making them suitable for a variety of settings. However, if you prefer a more unique acoustic signature, the chirpy characteristic of the Box CJ may be more appealing.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Outemu Lime switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Outemu Lime switch also boasts a feathery feel, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion from your fingers. This feature helps reduce finger fatigue and provides comfort during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle and polished qualities of the Lime switch contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a clacky sound and impossibly smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the ideal choice for rapid typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility, the Lime switch provides a feathery light typing experience that is also silenced for a quieter environment. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values rapid response, a smooth push feel, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Box CJ may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a touch of tactility, a muted sound profile, and little finger fatigue, the Lime switch could be your ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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