Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Glory Yellow

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to individual preferences for feel and sound. The Gateron CJ switches stand out with their unique presentation of linear action, characterized by a higher-pitched clack and an impressively smooth push feel. This combination makes the CJ switches ideal for typists who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while enjoying a neutral and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches, noted for their heavier actuation, deliver a different kind of enjoyment with a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance that cater to those who prefer a more robust feel during their typing sessions. While both switches offer a linear experience, the CJ's chirpy nature contrasts with the solid feel of the Glory Yellow, highlighting the diversity within linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Gateron Glory Yellow switches, a notable difference arises between their respective top housings. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for producing a pointed and higher-pitched sound that resonates with a clacky tone. This distinctive sound profile is attributed to the unique material composition of the INK blend, which strikes a balance between clarity and brightness. In contrast, the Glory Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which is more traditional and recognized for creating a deeper, fuller sound. This tonal quality is largely influenced by nylon's softer characteristics, which tend to absorb sound, leading to a richer auditory experience but one that is less sharp compared to the CJ.

Diving into the bottom housings, both switches again distinguish themselves through different materials. The CJ employs a POM bottom housing, which is celebrated for its ability to generate a unique deep and muted sound profile. POM's higher density allows for a more pleasant and controlled auditory output, contributing to an overall experience that feels distinctly satisfying. On the other hand, the Glory Yellow integrates a nylon bottom housing, which similarly champions a deeper sound. However, since nylon is more forgiving as a material, it holds the potential to create an even more rounded and duller sound compared to POM. Thus, while both switches may deliver fuller auditory experiences, the nuances in sound character can largely be attributed to the distinct properties of the bottom housing materials.

In summary, the differences in the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Glory Yellow switches bring about varied auditory results, significantly influenced by the top and bottom housing combinations. While the CJ's INK blend top emphasizes higher-pitched notes and clack, the nylon top of the Glory Yellow focuses on richness and fullness. Likewise, the contrasting bottom housings further segregate the sound profiles, with POM's muted clarity setting the CJ apart from the rounded tones of the nylon in the Glory Yellow. For enthusiasts seeking a balanced typing experience, both switches showcase unique characteristics, so testing each can yield insightful understandings of how housing materials shape sound and feel in keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch to the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 50 grams. This means that users will experience a similar feel when triggering a keystroke with either switch, making them equally suitable for extended typing sessions without significant fatigue. However, the CJ switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push when the key is fully pressed down, which may appeal to users who favor a heavier, more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Glory Yellow's bottom out force is unknown. Therefore, while the actuation forces are the same, the CJ switch is the heavier option overall due to its defined bottom out force, whereas the characteristics of the Glory Yellow remain unclear in this regard.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in this respect. This means that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on these switches, resulting in a similar tactile feedback and keypress feel. Since both switches share the same travel distance, you can expect consistent performance when typing or gaming with either option, ensuring that both switches cater to those who prefer a linear experience without any variance in key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch presents a unique acoustic profile with its higher-pitched clacks, which can lend a distinctive character to your typing experience. The CJ switches also produce a chirpy sound, giving them a bit of personality that distinguishes them from many traditional linear switches. Moreover, they can exhibit a low-pitched and thocky quality depending on the setup, particularly influenced by your keyboard's construction and keycap choice. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, which makes it difficult to draw direct comparisons; however, if the characteristics lean towards silence typical of linear switches, it may offer a more subdued auditory experience overall.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. This approachable feel means users are likely to find the CJ suitable for long typing sessions without much fatigue, while still delivering an enjoyable tactile feedback that balances the switch's smooth operation. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, leaving some unknowns about how it may compare in terms of typing smoothness or resistance during actuation.

In conclusion, while the Gateron CJ linear switch is noted for its unique chirpy sound and mild feel that caters to a wide range of users, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch remains ambiguous in terms of auditory quality and tactile feedback due to a lack of available descriptions. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a switch that delivers character and a pleasant typing experience, the CJ might be the choice for you, whereas the Glory Yellow may provide a more neutral experience that could be pleasing in its own right, though details on its performance are less defined. If sound and feel are critical to your choice, the CJ offers more quantifiable qualities to consider.

Conclusion

To summarize, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, it largely depends on your priorities and preferences for sound and typing feel. If you enjoy a more unique typing experience with its chirpy and mild character, then the CJ switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams means it's suitable for both typists and gamers alike, offering a satisfying balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch for a fuller keystroke and an overall smooth experience, the Glory Yellow may be the switch for you. Its design emphasizes a pleasing travel distance, making it a suitable option if you prioritize a solid typing experience without the distinct auditory signatures of the CJ. Ultimately, consider your typing style and preferences—if you value an engaging sound and feel, go for the CJs; but if you seek a reliable, smooth keystroke, the Glory Yellows should serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more