Gateron CJ vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is known for its subtle and nuanced feedback, providing a gentle tactile bump that allows typists to focus on their tasks without distractions. While the CJ is categorized as 'chirpy' and 'neutral', the Gold Brown Pro is described as 'polished' and 'subtle'. Both switches have low-pitched sound profiles, but the Gold Brown Pro stands out for its silky feel and stepped tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, while the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. However, both materials contribute to a satisfying sound experience for users, albeit with subtle differences in pitch and tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ's POM material creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials offer a distinct sound experience, users may prefer one over the other based on their personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the TTC Gold Brown Pro will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics due to their housing materials, with the CJ providing a clacky and higher-pitched sound profile while the Gold Brown Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound. Whether users prefer a deeper, muted sound profile with POM or a fuller sound with nylon, both switches have their own merits and can provide a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch with 45 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams while the Gold Brown Pro's force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the CJ may be preferable for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. Both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, with the CJ being slightly longer. When it comes to typing or gaming preferences, some may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro for quicker responses, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the CJ for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 is well-known for its chirpy and higher-pitched clacks, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience with each keystroke. While the CJ may provide a more attention-grabbing sound, the Gold Brown Pro offers a more subdued and understated sound profile, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is characterized by its polished and silky feel, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. With its subtle tactility and stepped design, the Gold Brown Pro offers a nuanced feedback that allows typists to immerse themselves in their tasks without being distracted by overly pronounced key presses. Both switches provide a satisfying typing feel, but the Gold Brown Pro may appeal more to those seeking a smoother and more refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a higher-pitched and chirpy sound with a mild typing feel, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile with a polished and silky typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CJ standing out for its unique sound and the Gold Brown Pro excelling in providing a smooth and refined typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the following: If you prefer a unique and smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a higher-pitched sound profile, the CJ may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a subtle tactile feedback, a quiet sound profile, and a switch that allows you to stay focused on your tasks without distraction, the Gold Brown Pro could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and unique sound characteristics or prefer a gentle tactile feedback and minimal noise while typing. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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