Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to weigh the differences between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch. The CJ offers a unique presentation of a linear switch with its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit stands out for its sharp, definitive bottom-out and significant tactile feedback, categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. While the CJ provides a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the Dragon Fruit offers a satisfying bump and lively sound signature. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of sound profiles, the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Dragon Fruit both offer unique characteristics due to their different housing materials. The CJ's INK blend top housing provides a thin, high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, while the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the type of sound you prefer during typing or gaming sessions. However, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience with their distinct sound profiles.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dragon Fruit's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing material can play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prioritize a deeper, fuller sound or a more muted sound, the choice between these two switches may also be influenced by the bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Dragon Fruit differ in their housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch, they both offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing or gaming experience. The CJ's INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing provide a satisfying and unique sound, while the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CJ has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dragon Fruit's 45 grams, making the Dragon Fruit the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CJ requires 60 grams while the Dragon Fruit needs 65 grams, making the Dragon Fruit the heavier option. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Gateron CJ may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Bsun Dragon Fruit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The CJ switch is longer in travel distance compared to the Dragon Fruit switch, which means that it provides a slightly deeper press when typing. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for most users. Gamers may prefer the Dragon Fruit switch for its shorter travel distance, offering quicker response times during game play. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the CJ switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances.
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 Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 characteristics, offering a unique and moderate sound profile that suits various typing environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch provides a clacky sound signature that is energetic and engaging, adding to the overall typing experience. While the CJ has a higher-pitched clack, the Dragon Fruit's sound is more distinct with its sharp bottom-out and tactile bump. Both switches offer different acoustics that cater to individual preferences, ensuring a delightful auditory experience during typing sessions.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a pronounced and reactive feel with each keypress. The Dragon Fruit's medium tactile characteristics make it suitable for those seeking a tactile switch that is not overwhelming yet offers a significant amount of feedback. While the CJ offers a more subtle typing sensation, the Dragon Fruit delivers a more dynamic and tactile experience for users looking for enhanced feedback during typing.
Considering all available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a chirpy and mild typing experience with a unique higher-pitched clack, while the Dragon Fruit boasts a clacky sound signature with a sharp bottom-out and pronounced tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience based on their desired sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the CJ or the Dragon Fruit, you'll receive a quality mechanical keyboard switch that meets your specific typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and higher-pitched typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the CJ switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a sharp and definitive bottom-out, along with a lively and engaging sound signature, the Dragon Fruit switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
