Gateron CJ vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The CJ is a linear switch that stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and remarkably smooth push feel. It provides an enjoyable and unique presentation of what a linear switch can offer. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that belongs to Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. These switches offer an affordable option without compromising on quality. They provide a subtle and delightful tactile sensation, carefully designed to provide a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow. Additionally, the G Pro Brown features a frosted light diffuser, ensuring a brighter and more immersive RGB lighting experience. Its medium-high pitch adds a satisfying auditory feedback, bringing an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches differ in terms of sound profiles and aesthetic features. The CJ switch utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which creates a pointed and higher-pitched sound. This sound is described as clacky and satisfyingly thin. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing enhances the visual appeal of the switch with its translucent nature, making it suitable for RGB lighting setups.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ switch employs a POM housing material, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This housing material contributes to a unique and pleasing sound experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches that use nylon as the bottom housing material.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether they are utilized for the top or bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a stronger influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences, albeit with variations in sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The CJ switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown's 55 grams. Similarly, the CJ switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ switch might be the better choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for those who type or game for longer periods, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for more comfortable usage. On the other hand, if someone prefers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable.
Overall, while the forces required for actuation and bottoming out vary slightly between the two switches, they both fall into the medium category. This means that regardless of the choice, users can expect similar results in terms of the force needed for key activation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch are the same, both measuring 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of the distance required to press down on the keys.
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 G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 experience with higher-pitched clacks and a distinctive chirpy sound. This acoustic signature sets these switches apart from others, providing an enjoyable auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a chirpy and higher-pitched sound, the CJ would be a more suitable choice, while the sound profile of the G Pro Brown remains unknown.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. This switch falls into the category of a mild mechanical keyboard switch, which means it offers a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch provides an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro Brown falls into the category of mild switches, offering a safe and approachable typing experience for most users. It is also worth mentioning that CJ switches have a neutral descriptor, indicating a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Gateron CJ linear switch and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides higher-pitched clacks and a unique chirpy sound, paired with an impossibly smooth push feel. It falls into the category of mild switches, offering a safe and enjoyable typing experience for most users. On the other hand, information regarding the G Pro Brown's specific sound and feel traits is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if you are looking for a switch with a subtle tactile sensation, economical pricing, and an enhanced visual experience with frosted light diffusers, the G Pro Brown may be a suitable choice. Ultimately, individual preferences for sound and feel will play a crucial role in determining which switch is the best fit for the newcomer.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. The CJ is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown stands out with its economical solution without compromising on quality, providing a delightful and subtle tactile sensation along with a medium-high pitch that adds to the typing experience.
In terms of sound, the CJ is described as chirpy, neutral, low-pitched, or thocky, while no specific sound descriptors are mentioned for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. For a switch with a more distinct acoustic signature, the CJ would be a good choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an immersive visual experience with its frosted light diffuser.
In terms of feel, the CJ is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press, mild, or stepped, providing a low-impact and low-resistance typing feel. If you prefer a switch with minimal resistance and effortless typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be suitable.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics. Both switches have their unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so consider your needs and preferences carefully before making a choice.
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