Gateron Box CJ vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for typists to consider. The Box CJ is known for its swift speed and high-pitched clacks, providing a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are praised for their exceptionally bright and clacky nature, paired with a light touch for a vibrant and responsive typing experience. While the Box CJ is categorized as clacky, mild, neutral, and chirpy, the Salt Ice switches do not have specific categories listed. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, offering users a variety of options based on their typing preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, the Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Salt Ice share the same polycarbonate top housing characteristics. This means that users can expect a similar sharp, high-pitched sound profile when typing on either switch. However, where they will notice a distinction is in the bottom-out sound and feel. The Box CJ's nylon bottom housing will likely provide a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the crisper sound produced by the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Jerrzi Salt Ice will ultimately come down to personal preference. While both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing, the Box CJ's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Users who prefer a more resonant typing experience may lean towards the Box CJ, while those who prefer a crisper sound may opt for the Salt Ice. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the translucency of polycarbonate may play a role in the decision-making process for those interested in RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial keypress activation. However, the Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down the keys compared to the Salt Ice, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Box CJ can offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Salt Ice's lighter bottom out force may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience over extended periods. In conclusion, while the actuation force remains constant between the two switches, the difference in bottom out force offers users the option to choose between a heavier or lighter typing experience based on their personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. The Box CJ offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance is preferred for typing or gaming.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch doesn't have a specific sound description provided, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, with the Box CJ offering a clacky sound profile, users can expect a distinct auditory experience compared to the Salt Ice switch, which may or may not have similar characteristics. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Meanwhile, information on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two in this aspect. Based on the description of the Box CJ's mild feel, it is likely to offer a different tactile sensation compared to the Salt Ice switch. Users should consider their preference for typing feel when making a decision between these two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ is known for its clacky sound profile and mild typing feel, the specific qualities of the Salt Ice switch remain unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If a user is looking for a clacky switch with a mild feel, the Box CJ may be the preferred option. However, for those seeking exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, the Salt Ice switch could be a standout choice. It's essential to consider personal preferences and intended usage when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you want from your keyboard. If you prioritize rapid response, high-pitched clacks, and a smooth push feel, the Box CJ may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, the Salt Ice switches could provide the energetic and responsive typing experience you're looking for. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience resonates with you the most. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one suits your needs and preferences the best.
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