Gateron CJ vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and TTC Gold Silver are two options worth considering. The Gateron CJ is revered for its unique presentation of a linear switch, offering a higher-pitched clack and an exceptionally smooth push feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, with each press leading to a decisive bottom-out and a resonant sound signature. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', while the Gold Silver is described as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately boils down to personal choice. 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
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Overall, the Gateron CJ and TTC Gold Silver switches offer different experiences when it comes to housing materials. The CJ utilizes an INK blend top housing, which gives it a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Gold Silver switch features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound. The CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing delivers a fuller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials result in distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch.
Despite their differences, the CJ and Gold Silver switches share some similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature unique combinations of materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the CJ's INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound. Similarly, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a pleasing and unique sound, while the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. These similarities suggest that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality from both switches.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The CJ's combination of INK blend and POM materials creates a distinct sound profile with a unique balance of high and low tones. Meanwhile, the Gold Silver's use of polycarbonate and nylon materials enhances the sharpness and depth of its sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of the CJ and Gold Silver switches contribute to their individual characteristics and appeal to users looking for specific sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, we find that the CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the CJ is 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown. This means that the CJ switch requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke and to bottom out completely compared to the Gold Silver switch. The CJ switch may be preferred by those who like a more substantial typing experience, while the Gold Silver switch may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, we see a slight difference between the two. The Gateron CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these distances fall within the realm of standard travel distances for keyboard switches. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the TTC Gold Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Gateron CJ. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific feel each individual is looking for in a keyboard switch.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 offers a unique and chirpy tone that sets it apart from the rest. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch provides a deep and thocky sound, creating a satisfying and rich auditory experience. Both switches have a low-pitched profile that adds a mellow tone to their sound signature, making them suitable for various preferences. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by these switches may vary but generally speaking, users can expect a pleasant acoustic experience from either switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a smooth push feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. Conversely, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, providing reduced friction and enhanced smoothness with every keystroke. Both switches have characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the CJ offering a gentle typing experience and the Gold Silver focusing on refined key travel. Overall, users can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing feel from either switch, depending on their personal preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a chirpy sound and mild typing experience, while the Gold Silver offers a deep thocky sound and polished typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired outcome. Both switches excel in providing an enjoyable and tactile experience, ultimately delivering a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a medium bottom out force and higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer rapid responsiveness, decisive bottom-outs, and a resonant sound signature with an unknown bottom out force, the TTC Gold Silver is the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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