Gateron CJ vs. Jerrzi Coral
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Jerrzi Coral switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the Jerrzi Coral, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CJ is renowned for its unique presentation of a linear switch, offering a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Coral boasts a crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, striking a balance between sophistication and performance. While the CJ is described as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Coral is characterized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron CJ and Jerrzi Coral switches offer different experiences due to their unique properties. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Coral utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer clear and resonant sound profiles, the CJ tends to lean towards a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Coral's sharper and crisper tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the CJ's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Coral's nylon bottom housing gives off a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches and impact the typing feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and Jerrzi Coral switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the CJ's blend of INK and POM provides a thinner, higher-pitched sound with a unique typing experience, the Coral's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a sharper, crisper sound profile with a deeper and fuller typing feel. Both switches utilize high-quality materials that enhance the overall typing experience, making them ideal choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams to fully press the key, while this information is not available for the Coral switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Coral switch for a smoother typing experience, especially for extended periods, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the CJ switch for a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, it is evident that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Coral's 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the CJ being on the slightly longer side and the Coral on the shorter side, the 0.3 mm difference may not be significant to most users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Coral with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the CJ. Ultimately, both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the CJ offers a slightly longer distance for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral 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 CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and neutral sound profile, adding a unique touch to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch offers a lower-pitched resonance, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches aim to satisfy different preferences in sound, with the CJ offering a chirpy and moderate profile, while the Coral focuses on a lower-pitched and mellower tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. The CJ offers a mild and safe typing experience, while the Coral delivers a silky smooth feel for those who prefer minimal resistance.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch both bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a chirpy and smooth push experience with higher-pitched clacks from the CJ or a lower-pitched and silky smooth feel with the Coral, both switches offer a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your preference for sound and feel, as they both cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a switch with a medium bottom out force, higher-pitched sound profile, and mild typing feel, the Gateron CJ could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, a lower-pitched sound profile, and a silky smooth typing experience, the Jerrzi Coral may be more to your liking. Consider your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, both switches offer unique attributes that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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