Gateron CJ vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the KTT F2 mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear switch category, we find two unique options that cater to different preferences. The CJ stands out for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, earning it descriptors like 'chirpy' and 'thocky'. On the other hand, the F2 boasts a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel per keystroke, offering a medium-light weightiness for a comfortable typing experience. Each switch brings its own set of characteristics and qualities that may appeal to different individuals based on their 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT F2, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the CJ employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which offers a slightly different sound profile described as thin, high-pitched, and clacky. While both materials offer unique characteristics, they ultimately contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience.
Regarding the bottom housing, the CJ utilizes POM while the F2 uses polycarbonate. POM housings are known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, which contrasts with the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite this difference, both materials offer pleasing sound profiles that complement the top housing's qualities. The split between the bottom and top housings allows each material to impact different aspects of the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Gateron CJ and the KTT F2 offer distinct typing experiences due to their housing materials. While the F2's use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings results in a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, the CJ's combination of INK blend for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing creates a more varied and unique sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper, more muted sound with POM, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, the actuation force of the CJ is heavier at 50 grams compared to the F2's 43 grams, making the F2 the lighter option. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the CJ requiring 60 grams and the F2 requiring 53 grams. This means that while the F2 may have a lighter actuation force, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the F2 for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may gravitate towards the heavier actuation force of the CJ for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, the CJ has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the F2's 3.5 mm. The CJ's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional key press feel, offering a deeper press and potentially more satisfying keystrokes for those who prefer a bit more depth in their switches. On the other hand, the F2's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more immediate feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, more responsive keystroke or a longer, more deliberate key press.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 chirpy sound, with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a distinct hollow sound signature that is more subdued in comparison. The CJ switch leans towards a more unique and possibly louder sound profile, while the F2 switch offers a quieter and more subtle auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the overall set-up of the keyboard, users can choose between a chirpy and higher-pitched sound with the CJ, or a subdued and hollow sound with the F2.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Meanwhile, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery feel that requires little exertion from the fingers, reducing fatigue and making it comfortable for longer typing sessions. Both switches are described as mild in their feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics. The CJ switch appears to offer a more typical linear switch feel, while the F2 provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and KTT F2 linear switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The CJ switch stands out for its higher-pitched and chirpy sound, along with a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the F2 switch offers a distinct hollow sound signature and a feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the CJ for a unique and possibly louder typing experience, or the F2 for a more subdued and comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own advantages and it will come down to individual preferences when selecting the right switch for their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a distinct hollow sound signature with a lightly textured feel, the KTT F2 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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