Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Guyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Guyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Guyu mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CJ is known for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, while being categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Guyu provides a distinctive auditory experience with deep acoustics and a bright, crisp bottom-out sound, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. The medium weight and smooth keystrokes of the Guyu make typing effortless and enjoyable, while the CJ offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Bsun Guyu both feature POM housing materials, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively muted compared to other switch housings. However, the CJ utilizes this POM material for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience throughout the keypress. In contrast, the Guyu separates the POM material, with the top housing contributing more to the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This subtle difference in housing material distribution can impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a more pronounced sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing material distribution, both the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Guyu offer a unique typing experience thanks to their POM housings. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a relatively high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound, described as clacky, while the Guyu's POM top housing produces a pleasing and deeper sound profile. These distinct sound characteristics highlight the versatility of POM material in providing a wide range of sound experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether it's the consistent sound profile of the CJ or the split impact of the Guyu's top and bottom housings, both switches showcase the effectiveness of POM material in enhancing typing sound and feel.
In terms of sound production, the Gateron CJ's INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is satisfying and clacky, while the Bsun Guyu's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both switches aim to provide users with a unique sound profile that enhances their typing experience. Although the distribution of POM material differs between the two switches, resulting in variations in sound impact during keypresses, the overall quality of the housing material remains consistent in delivering a pleasant sound profile. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the CJ or the deeper tones of the Guyu, both switches offer a premium typing experience that showcases the benefits of POM housing material.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more medium feel. In contrast, the Bsun Guyu features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CJ for its heavier forces, while those looking for a lighter feel may choose the Bsun Guyu. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, ensuring similar results regardless of the slight variances in force requirements. Ultimately, the preference between a lighter or heavier switch will depend on individual typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Guyu. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a 3.6mm travel distance is a bit shallower, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you value a slightly longer travel distance for more depth or a shorter travel distance for faster responses.
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 Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best described as having a chirpy and neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, providing a unique auditory experience that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on the user's preferences and setup, the CJ switch offers a more varied sound profile, while the Guyu switch provides a distinct and percussive auditory experience. When considering sound, it is important to note that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound quality.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Meanwhile, the Bsun Guyu linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. With a focus on smoothness and responsiveness, the Guyu switch excels in providing effortless keystrokes that glide seamlessly across the keys, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Users looking for a more polished and refined typing experience may find the Guyu switch to be a preferred choice.
Overall, when looking at the subjective qualities of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique and enjoyable features in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a chirpy and neutral sound with a mild typing experience, while the Guyu switch delivers a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches offer a distinct and satisfying typing experience that can cater to a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a unique, higher-pitched sound with smooth keystrokes, the Gateron CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force, a deep and crisp sound profile, and super-smooth keystrokes with resonant feedback, the Bsun Guyu could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the experience you want to have with your mechanical keyboard switches.
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