Gateron CJ vs. Gateron CM

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and Gateron CM both offer unique qualities that make them standout options. The CJ is known for its enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, producing higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the CM breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, resulting in a richer, deeper sound signature. The CM switches also boast an impeccable factory lube job, providing an effortlessly smooth typing journey that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switches feature a lengthened, dual-staged spring, delivering a bouncy typing experience. While these general pointers can help you select a switch, let's dive deeper to ensure you choose the best one for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Gateron CM Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and Gateron CM differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, commonly described as clacky. In contrast, the CM's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile. Therefore, while the CJ provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, the CM offers a deeper and fuller typing experience.

Regarding the bottom housing, the CJ features a POM housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side and has a relative muteness to it. On the other hand, the CM's nylon bottom housing complements its nylon top housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both these housing materials absorb sound, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the CJ's POM bottom housing provides a muted and distinct sound, while the CM's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounded and fuller sound experience.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the switch's sound and feel, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that when a key is pressed down on the CJ, the qualities of the POM bottom housing will be more prominent. Conversely, the CM's nylon bottom housing will leave a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Although there are differences in the housing materials, similarities exist in their ability to affect the switch's sound, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and the top housing determining the sound when a key is released.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The CJ switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the CM switch's actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the CJ switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the CJ switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the CM switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the CM switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to fully press down. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. If a user prefers a lighter feel for extended typing sessions, the CJ switch may be a better choice, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the CM switch. Despite their differences, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out, ensuring that users will get comparable results regardless of which option they choose.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have different travel distances. The CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional distance. On the other hand, the CM has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the CM switch a bit shallower compared to the CJ.

Some individuals, especially gamers, prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. The shorter travel distance of the CM switch makes it more suitable for these users who prioritize responsiveness. However, for those who value a deeper pressing experience, the CJ switch with its longer travel distance may be a better choice. It's worth noting that both switches offer a smooth linear feel when pressed, so regardless of the specific travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of the switch's overall performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable presentation. Typing on CJ switches brings a higher-pitched clack, giving them a chirpy quality that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, resulting in a richer and deeper sound signature. The CM switches are described as bassy and thocky, offering a lower frequency range and a satisfying sound reminiscent of a deep "thud" or soft "knock". Both switches have a low-pitched characteristic, but the CJ is more neutral in sound compared to the CM. 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 used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel. These switches offer a mild typing experience, gentle enough for most users. The Gateron CM linear switch, on the other hand, promises an effortlessly smooth typing journey. With its lengthened, dual-staged spring, users can expect a bouncy typing experience. The CM switches are described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, all indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The CJ switches, although not explicitly described, are known for their smooth push feel. Both switches offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.

Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have their own unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, while the CM makes a bold statement with its richer, deeper sound signature and bouncy typing experience. Although they differ in certain aspects, both switches deliver smooth and satisfying typing experiences. It's important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of each user when choosing between the two.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. The CJ switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, providing a chirpy and neutral sound profile. With a mild typing experience, the CJ switch is suitable for those who prefer a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, delivering a richer, deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing experience due to the lengthened, dual-staged spring. The CM switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a lower frequency range and a deep, satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, the CM switch provides a buttery, polished, or creamy typing experience, ensuring smooth and effortless key travel. Whether you prefer a smoother typing experience with a unique sound or a more distinct sound with a bounce in each keystroke, these factors can guide you in choosing between the Gateron CJ and CM linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more