Gateron CJ vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offer unique experiences for users. The CJ is a linear switch, known for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, making it a pleasant option for those who prefer a linear typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is a tactile switch crafted with custom molds, offering a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and attractive price point. While the CJ provides a 'Chirpy' and 'Thocky' typing experience, the EF Grayish offers a 'Stepped' and 'Snappy' tactile response. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different preferences, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their typing habits and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their differences in materials. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, in contrast to the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials result in unique typing experiences for users.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both enhance the overall sound profile of the switches. The CJ's combination of INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing creates a satisfying and distinct sound, with a balance between the thin clacky sound of the top housing and the deeper muted sound of the bottom housing. Similarly, the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing work together to provide a clear and resonant sound profile with a fuller and rounder tone. In this sense, both switches offer unique typing experiences that are influenced by the combination of their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the CJ offers a thinner and clacky sound with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer a more muted and deeper sound or a clearer and more resonant tone, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is influenced by their housing materials. Ultimately, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the CJ is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the EF Grayish at 59 grams. However, the CJ is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 60 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the EF Grayish is unknown. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their comparable actuation forces. Some users may prefer the CJ for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the EF Grayish for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EF Grayish. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Users who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the CJ, while those looking for a quicker response time may opt for the EF Grayish. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing/gaming style.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 offers a unique and distinct chirpy sound that sets them apart from other switches. This higher-pitched clack adds a fun element to typing, making them an enjoyable choice for those who prefer a slightly more audible sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various settings. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, the neutral sound of the EF Grayish switch ensures a pleasant typing experience without being too distracting.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is praised for its impossibly smooth push feel, providing a gentle and pleasant typing experience. The mild characteristics of the CJ switch make it approachable to most users, offering a safe middle ground in terms of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as stepped and snappy, providing a unique typing sensation with two stages of tactility. The snappy and responsive nature of the EF Grayish switch adds a liveliness to typing, making it an engaging option for those who enjoy a more dynamic feel.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ switch provides a chirpy sound and a smooth push feel, the EF Grayish switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped, snappy tactile experience. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the CJ switch leaning towards a more unique auditory experience and the EF Grayish switch focusing on a versatile and engaging tactile feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboarding enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and chirpy sound with a smooth push feel, the CJ linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a medium weight and a stepped tactile feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing experience.
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