Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Crystal

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Crystal are two popular options, both falling under the linear switch category. The CJ switches are renowned for their unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth feel when typing. On the other hand, the Crystal switches provide a distinctive, elastic typing experience with a medium-light weight, resulting in a satisfying linear feel. Additionally, the Crystals offer a neutral sound profile when typing. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics that appeal to different 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

Gateron CJ Linear

Outemu Crystal Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the Outemu Crystal have contrasting housing materials that result in different sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. It is described as clacky, but not overly sharp. In contrast, the Crystal uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its sharper and crisper sound.

However, despite these differences, both switches make use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which benefits those who plan to use RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for better illumination, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Therefore, users of both the CJ and the Crystal can expect similar results in terms of RGB lighting effects.

When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role. By using POM in the CJ's bottom housing, it creates a unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Crystal contributes to its sharper and crisper sound. Meanwhile, the top housing of the switch affects the sound when a key is released. Thus, the differences in housing materials for the top and bottom of these switches result in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force, while the Crystal requires slightly less at 45 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ again requires a higher force of 60 grams, while the Crystal requires 55 grams. This indicates that the CJ switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Crystal switch. Both switches can be considered medium-light in terms of bottom out force.

Considering weight when choosing a switch is important, as it affects typing comfort and endurance. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the 45 gram actuation force of the Crystal switch may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the CJ switch, with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.

In conclusion, while the CJ and Crystal switches have similar actuation forces in the medium range, the CJ switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Crystal switch. Choosing between the two depends on individual preference for typing force and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when using the switch. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Outemu Crystal, you can expect to have a consistent and smooth typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks, giving them a chirpy and distinct sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a neutral sound profile. These switches do not have any specific characteristics in their sound, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. If you prefer a low-pitched and thocky sound, the CJ switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more crisp and sharp sound, the Crystal switch would be the way to go. It's important to note that the sound of these switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, typing on the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel. These switches offer a mild typing experience, making them gentle and approachable to most users. The Outemu Crystal linear switch, on the other hand, offers a polished feel. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Crystal switch achieves this through the use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a more gentle and mild typing experience, the CJ switch would be the suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a polished and smooth feel, the Crystal switch would be a better fit.

In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a unique and enjoyable presentation with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. If you prefer a low-pitched and thocky sound with a mild typing experience, the CJ switch would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more crisp and sharp sound with a polished feel, the Crystal switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, providing a satisfying linear typing experience. Remember that the choice between these switches should also consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The CJ switch offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a satisfying push feel. It is best known for its higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth typing experience. In terms of sound, the CJ switch has a neutral profile, making it suitable for various environments and skill levels. On the other hand, the Crystal switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a unique, linear typing experience. It is best known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight. Additionally, the Crystal switch produces a neutral sound profile when typing. In terms of feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, while the Crystal switch provides a polished and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more