Gateron CJ vs. KTT Cream Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow. Both switches fall under the linear category, but offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CJ switch is renowned for its unique presentation, providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience accompanied by higher-pitched clacks. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch is designed to deliver a distinctly clacky sound, with a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring in the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy typing feel. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the differences between the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so that you can make the best decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Cream Yellow, we can see that they have notable differences. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials contribute to a satisfying sound experience, the CJ's INK blend offers a clacky sound, while the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance. However, in terms of aesthetics, if you prefer using RGB lighting, the Cream Yellow's translucent polycarbonate is especially advantageous.

When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the CJ utilizes POM, which creates a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. Conversely, the Cream Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material, being relatively softer, absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound compared to the CJ's POM bottom housing. It's important to note that the bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key.

In summary, the Gateron CJ and KTT Cream Yellow have distinct housing materials and sound characteristics. The CJ's INK blend and POM housing create a slightly clacky and uniquely muted sound, while the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate and nylon housing produce a sharper, crisper sound with deeper nuances. However, it is worth noting that both switches offer satisfying sound experiences, albeit with different qualities. Whether you prioritize a clacky sound or a more resonant, fuller sound, both switches deliver in their respective ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning they require an equal amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of actuation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Gateron CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the KTT Cream Yellow has a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams. This indicates that the Gateron CJ switch offers a slightly heavier press when fully depressed compared to the Cream Yellow switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, where less force is required during bottoming out, the Cream Yellow switch would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, if someone prefers a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel, they might find the Gateron CJ switch appealing. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium actuation force, ensuring a similar performance in that aspect.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ switch falls into the more traditional category with its 4.0 mm travel distance, whereas the Cream Yellow switch is on the shallower end with its 3.5 mm travel distance. While both switches provide a decent amount of travel distance, some may prefer the slightly shorter 3.5 mm of the Cream Yellow switch for faster response times, especially in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the CJ switch with its longer 4.0 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. When typing on the CJ switch, users will experience higher-pitched clacks and detect an impossibly smooth push feel. This gives the CJ switch a chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone.

On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound. The shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem of the Cream Yellow switch provide resonant audio feedback, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. The Cream Yellow switch is also characterized by its uniquely bouncy typing feel, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively rebound when pressed.

In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and KTT Cream Yellow switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, giving it a chirpy and low-pitched sound profile with a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound with resonant audio feedback, and its bouncy typing feel adds a unique liveliness to the typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of either switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. So, depending on your preferences and setup, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel.

If you prefer a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch might be the best choice for you. It offers a chirpy sound profile that sets it apart from others and a mild feel that provides a gentle typing experience. The CJ is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.

On the other hand, if you desire a distinctively clacky sound with resonant audio feedback, the Cream Yellow switch would be a great option. It produces a sharp, snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy feel with a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you a lively typing experience.

Overall, the Gateron CJ and KTT Cream Yellow switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, allowing you to select the one that aligns with your preferences. Whichever switch you choose, both offer medium bottom-out forces and are designed to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more