Gateron CJ vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ and the Huano Grape Orange offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Gateron CJ stands out with its unique presentation, delivering a satisfying typing experience characterized by higher-pitched clacks and an impressively smooth key feel, earning it descriptors such as 'Chirpy' and 'Thocky.' This switch may be ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback and a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the Huano Grape Orange shines with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, allowing for an effortlessly light feel that facilitates extended typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use during lengthy tasks. While both switches present appealing features, they cater to different preferences in typing dynamics and sound. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the Gateron CJ and Huano Grape Orange switches, the differences in their housing materials significantly influence their sound profiles and overall performance. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, known for producing a pointed and higher-pitched sound characterized as clacky. In contrast, the Grape Orange utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which also contributes to a higher-pitched and crisp sound. While both materials favor a lighter, more resonant sound profile, the INK blend tends to create a more satisfying thin sound compared to the sharper, clearer acoustics of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing offers the added benefit of translucence, making it ideal for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the visual experience while using mechanical keyboards.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housing, a notable divergence occurs. The CJ switches employ POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their bottom housing, which is known for imparting a deeper, more muted sound profile. This acoustic property arises from POM's density and how it interacts with keypress vibrations. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange makes use of nylon for its bottom housing, a material that is well-regarded for producing a fuller sound due to its softer composition. This flexibility allows nylon to absorb more sound energy, resulting in a rounder and flatter auditory experience when typing. Thus, while both switches convey differing characteristics via their bottom housings, the overall output remains segmented, with the lower portion impacting the bottom-out sound, and the housings influencing the sound produced during release.
While the distinctions in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and Huano Grape Orange switches lead to varying typing experiences, the foundational principles of sound production remain consistent. If both the top and bottom housings share similar traits with regard to flexibility and density, similar acoustic results could manifest. For instance, enthusiasts who prioritize a balanced auditory feel may find common ground between the deeper muted tones of the CJ’s POM and the fuller sounds from the Grape Orange's nylon. Understanding these interactions empowers users to make informed decisions based on their preference for sound profiles, ultimately enhancing their mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to distinct preferences among typists and gamers. The CJ features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-force switch ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Grape Orange is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes it a more suitable choice for users who prefer a quicker and less strenuous keystroke, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Overall, while both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, the Gateron CJ is heavier, offering a firmer push, whereas the Huano Grape Orange provides a lighter touch, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the CJ offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Grape Orange measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Gateron CJ has a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced key press that some users may find favorable for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Grape Orange can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: if you seek a switch that feels deeper and offers a traditional keystroke, the Gateron CJ may be the better choice; however, if you favor a snappier feel with less travel, the Huano Grape Orange is the way to go.
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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 distinct auditory profile characterized by a higher-pitched clack that many users enjoy. The unique chirpy sound of the CJ, combined with its ability to deliver low-pitched, thocky tones, creates a versatile soundscape that can suit various environments, from home to office settings. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switch lacks a described sound profile, which leaves some uncertainty about its acoustic characteristics. It's worth noting that the overall sound experience can be influenced significantly by the keyboard construction, including the choice of board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ switch is recognized for its exceptionally smooth action and mild typing experience. Users will find that the gentle feedback and approachable characteristics make it a safe choice for those new to mechanical keyboards, ensuring a pleasant typing journey without the overwhelming sensations often associated with more tactile designs. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switch does not have a defined feel profile available, which makes it difficult to provide an in-depth comparison in this regard.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CJ switch provides a unique blend of sound and an enjoyable typing feel, the Huano Grape Orange leaves some aspects to the imagination due to the lack of specified characteristics. Those choosing between these switches can expect a smooth experience with the CJ that comes with distinct acoustic properties, while the Grape Orange may offer a lightweight feel suitable for extended use, albeit with less clarity regarding its sound feedback. Ultimately, your preference may come down to whether you value the CJ's unique sound and mild feel or wish to explore the lighter touch of the Grape Orange, though more information on the latter would be beneficial for a comprehensive evaluation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you desire a switch that offers a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams with a unique auditory experience, the CJ is an excellent choice. The CJ's chirpy sound profile and smooth push feel can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a satisfying feedback with a slightly elevated clack. This switch may be particularly suitable for those who enjoy both typing and gaming, given its versatile characteristics that cater to a variety of activities. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch and plan on engaging in prolonged typing sessions, the Grape Orange with its lighter 50-gram actuation force is ideal. Its effortless typing experience allows you to glide through long periods of keystrokes without fatigue, making it well-suited for writers or those who spend many hours at their keyboard. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and sound preferences before making your final decision: the CJ excels in tactile and auditory feedback, while the Grape Orange prioritizes comfort and ease of use.
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