Gateron CJ vs. Jwick Ginger Milk

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Jwick Ginger Milk, also a linear switch. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that are worth exploring. The CJ switches are known for their unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on them produces higher-pitched clacks and provides an impossibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the CJ switches offer a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches are known for their soft and pastel nature, which reflects the typing experience they deliver. Using the Ginger Milk switches provides a silky smooth and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted and snappy sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery', these switches have their own appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the Jwick Ginger Milk have contrasting housing materials that result in different sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound, but not overly sharp, creating a clacky and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. Although different, both housing materials provide a thin and higher-pitched sound, ensuring a similar result in terms of the sound produced.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ utilizes POM, which leads to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound, leaning towards the deeper side and relatively more muted. Contrastingly, the Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material, yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference can be attributed to nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both materials contribute to a pleasing sound experience, the CJ's POM provides a slightly deeper tone compared to the Ginger Milk's nylon.

Considering the impact of the housing materials on typing experience, pressing down on the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning the CJ's POM housing will result in a deeper and more pronounced sensation, whereas the Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing will offer a softer and gentler bottom-out experience. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is predominantly influenced by the top housing. Therefore, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing will contribute to a distinctive sound when keys are released, while the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing will deliver a sharper and more pronounced sound release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch.

However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The Gateron CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that users will experience a moderate resistance when fully pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. This indicates that the Ginger Milk switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the CJ switch.

When considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CJ linear switch, as its bottom out force is lighter. This allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who appreciate a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, as its heavier bottom out force provides a more pronounced typing experience.

Overall, the actuation forces remain the same for both switches, offering similar responsiveness. However, the Gateron CJ linear switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is slightly heavier. The decision between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Ginger Milk switch slightly shallower than the CJ switch. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. In this case, the Ginger Milk switch would be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the CJ switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between the two switches to ensure the best typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks that set them apart from other switches. They also have an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a more muted and snappy sound profile. It offers a silky smooth and approachable push feel. While the Ginger Milk switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, the CJ switch provides a chirpy and possibly low-pitched sound, giving a different auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ switch is described as offering a more mild typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle and approachable feel without any extreme characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation, which can be quite satisfying. Both switches provide a smooth push feel, but the CJ switch might have a more gentle and moderate overall experience, while the Ginger Milk switch has a smoother and more uniform feel.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch have their own unique qualities. The CJ switch stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch offers a softer and pastel typing experience, with a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. Both switches are described as having a neutral actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes and user levels. While they may provide slightly different sound and feel experiences, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used to fully determine the overall outcome. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch is a great choice. With its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, typing on the CJ switches is truly a pleasure. Additionally, the CJ has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a comfortable and balanced typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and pastel typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is an excellent option. These switches offer a silky smooth and approachable push feel, along with a muted and snappy sound profile. The Ginger Milk switches have a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, giving them a medium-heavy feel that some users may prefer.

In terms of sound, the CJ switches are known for their unique chirpy sound, while the Ginger Milk switches have a more neutral sound profile. If you enjoy switches with a little squeak and distinct acoustic signature, the CJ switches are a great fit. However, if you prefer a switch with a moderate sound profile that suits most intents and purposes, the Ginger Milk switches are a reliable choice.

When it comes to feel, the CJ switches offer a mild typing experience, which is more gentle and approachable. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches provide a buttery, smooth, and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches offer a comfortable and uniform typing sensation, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, you can't go wrong. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and enjoyable typing experiences. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the decision that best suits your needs. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more