Bsun Pine vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Gateron CJ offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ is a linear switch that presents a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the CJ switch is labeled as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own set of qualities that may appeal to different users based on their 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and Gateron CJ switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound when typing. In contrast, the CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, producing a pointed yet not overly sharp, clacky sound. While both switches have unique characteristics, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the CJ's INK blend offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Pine uses nylon for a deep and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the CJ switches incorporate POM bottom housing, providing a more muted and deeper sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Pine contributes to a rounder and duller sound, contrasting with the POM bottom housing of the CJ, which offers a unique and pleasing sound profile. Both switches showcase the importance of bottom housing materials in shaping the overall sound and feel of typing.
While the Bsun Pine and Gateron CJ switches differ in their housing materials, the division of qualities between top and bottom housings impacts the typing experience in a similar way. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, with the nylon of the Pine offering a deeper sound compared to the POM of the CJ. Conversely, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate of the Pine creating a sharper sound profile and the INK blend of the CJ producing a clacky sound. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches demonstrate the nuanced impact of each material on the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron CJ linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires more pressure at 65 grams compared to the CJ's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Pine may be the better option, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial push may lean towards the CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being slightly shorter and the CJ being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Pine for its faster response times due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the CJ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Gateron 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 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by its unique sharp tactile bump, which may result in a more pronounced and potentially louder typing sound. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch is known for producing higher-pitched clacks, giving it a distinct and chirpy sound profile. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Pine likely to be more intense and the CJ offering a unique high-pitched sound. However, it's important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as keycaps and the keyboard itself.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Pine switch is described as having an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, providing a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. This results in a responsive and immersive typing experience that can be quite satisfying for those who prefer a more pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch is characterized as having a mild feel, offering a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. While the Pine switch may provide a more intense and snappy feel, the CJ switch offers a smoother and more approachable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp tactile bump and potentially louder sound, appealing to those who prefer a more intense typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switch offers a high-pitched and chirpy sound along with a mild and gentle typing feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a smoother and more moderate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles, but both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with clear-cut feedback, the Pine switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and enjoyable linear switch with a slightly lower bottom out force, the CJ switch could be the right fit. Additionally, if you enjoy a switch with a high feedback intensity and sharp tactile bump, the Pine switch would be ideal. However, if you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience, the CJ switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
