Gateron CJ vs. TTC Flame Red

Overview

The Gateron CJ and TTC Flame Red are both linear mechanical switches, but they offer distinct features that set them apart. The CJ is renowned for its unique presentation of a linear switch, providing a high-pitched clacky sound and an incredibly smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Flame Red boasts a stunning light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a backlit or RGB keyboard setup. Typing on the CJ switch offers a chirpy and low-pitched sound, while the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Despite these generalities, it is essential to dive deeper to fully understand each switch's nuances and determine which one suits your preferences best.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

TTC Flame Red Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the TTC Flame Red switches differ in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing results in a pointed and higher-pitched sound, characterized as clacky. In contrast, the Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, if sound profile is a priority, the CJ switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a clacky sound, while the Flame Red switch would be suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper and fuller sound.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the CJ and the Flame Red switches use different materials. The CJ switch utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a relatively more muted and deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in materials affects the sound and feel when bottoming out a key. Therefore, those who desire a quieter and deeper sound may find the CJ switch more appealing, while users who prefer a richer and fuller sound may lean towards the Flame Red switch.

In summary, the housing materials in the Gateron CJ and the TTC Flame Red switches vary in terms of the sound profiles they generate. The CJ switch, with its INK blend top housing, produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Flame Red switch, with its nylon top housing, creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the CJ switch's POM bottom housing results in a relatively muted sound, whereas the Flame Red switch's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual sound preferences, with the CJ offering a clacky and muted profile, and the Flame Red delivering a fuller and deeper sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The CJ switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams, making it a bit heavier to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force. Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ switch requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams compared to the Flame Red's 54 grams. This indicates that the CJ switch provides a more substantial typing experience when pressed all the way down. Despite these differences in force, both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force as well. Overall, the CJ switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Flame Red, providing a firmer and more substantial typing experience. However, if a lighter feel is preferred, the Flame Red would be the better option as it requires less force for actuation and bottoming out.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches. The travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring consistent performance and response in typing activities.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best described as chirpy. This unique acoustic signature gives the CJ switches a distinctive squeak that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is more neutral in sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is suitable for a variety of purposes whether you are a beginner, advanced user, using the switch at home or at work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CJ and the TTC Flame Red switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches fall within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of their feel. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. It offers a chirpy sound profile and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is known for its visual appeal with a dazzling light diffuser. It provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. While the CJ has a higher-pitched clack sound and the Flame Red has a more neutral sound, they both deliver satisfying results. When selecting between the two switches, consider factors such as the desired sound and visual aesthetics to find the best fit for your preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have their unique characteristics and advantages. The CJ switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, making it an enjoyable and unique option for those who prefer a chirpy or low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch stands out with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize visual aesthetics and have a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on the Flame Red switch, users can expect a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile.

In terms of sound, both switches fall into the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the CJ switch also offers the option for a chirpy or low-pitched sound, providing a more varied acoustic experience.

In terms of feel, both switches fall under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Additionally, the Flame Red switch has the added advantage of a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and prefer a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switch is the ideal choice, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. Consider your desired sound, feel, and visual experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more