Gateron CJ vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver offer two distinct options to suit different preferences and needs. The CJ is a linear switch that stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation. Typing on these switches gives off higher-pitched clacks and provides an impossibly smooth push feel. It falls into the categories of being 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, also a linear switch, is part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up, specifically designed for gamers. Its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, as opposed to the standard 4mm, ensures lightning-fast responsiveness, granting players a competitive edge. Additionally, its medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions, while vibrant RGB lighting and a frosted light diffuser enhance the overall visual experience. Labeled as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', these switches deliver exceptional gaming performance without breaking the bank. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver feature different materials for their top housing. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, providing a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials provide a satisfying sound experience, the CJ's INK blend offers a slightly less sharp sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing does not offer the translucency that the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides. Polycarbonate's ability to be clear makes it an ideal material for switches designed to use RGB lighting. However, both top housing materials are durable and reliable for their intended purposes. So, if you're looking for a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the better choice, while the CJ offers a more subdued design.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the CJ utilizes POM housings, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. POM is known to produce an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver employs nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both materials offer their own distinct sound experiences, with POM providing a deeper and more muted sound, while nylon produces a fuller and rounder sound.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing materials have a significant impact. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the CJ's POM bottom housing will impart its unique sound and feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing will provide a different tactile experience. However, when letting go of a key, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound. So, while the bottom housing materials differ, the overall typing experience will still be satisfying and comparable between the CJ and the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are notable differences. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver possesses a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver a favored choice for those who prefer a lighter keypress.
For individuals who prioritize a lightweight typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable option as it requires less force for actuation and bottoming out. With this lighter touch, users can type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This attribute is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively throughout the day, whether for work or long gaming sessions.
In contrast, the CJ switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. This provides a more substantial and responsive typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While this may not be everyone's preference, for typists who enjoy a firmer touch, the CJ switch would be the preferable choice.
In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter, allowing for prolonged typing sessions, while the CJ switch offers a heavier touch, providing a more substantial typing experience. Selecting one over the other depends on the individual's desired typing sensation and the specific use case. Ultimately, both switches offer their own advantages and can deliver satisfying results, albeit with differing forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the user will experience a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide similar results. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other, as they share the same travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 presentation. With higher-pitched clacks and an unbelievably smooth push feel, CJ switches provide a truly enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch delivers a deeper and richer sound profile. The low-pitched and thocky characteristics of these switches create a satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound when pressed and released. While both switches offer a low-pitched profile, the CJ switch has a chirpy element, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a bass-heavy tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle feel compared to those with more pronounced characteristics. They strike a balance that makes them approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation. This implies a smooth, fluid, and uniform keystroke experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is known for delivering a seamless and effortless typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation of sound, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It provides a chirpy typing sound and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its exceptional gaming performance and value. It offers a bass-heavy and thocky typing sound, as well as a buttery and creamy typing feel. Both switches offer low-pitched profiles, but with different characteristics. In terms of sound and feel, while the CJ switch has its own distinct qualities, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch delivers similar results with its bass-heavy and thocky sound, as well as its buttery and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, as well as their specific use case, whether it be typing or gaming.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ switches would be a great choice. With their higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, typing on these switches will be a delight. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional value, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches would be the way to go. With their light bottom out force and shorter travel distance, these switches provide a competitive advantage during gaming sessions. Additionally, their vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming experience. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on whether you prioritize a unique and enjoyable typing experience or enhanced gaming performance.
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