Gateron CJ vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the Durock Ice King Tactile are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The CJ is a linear switch known for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, offering a unique and enjoyable presentation of linear switches. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch that elevates tactile typing to an art form, blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying tactile experience. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', the Ice King Tactile is described as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different typing preferences. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Durock Ice King Tactile both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness of nylon, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of a switch.
In terms of bottom housing, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable as the top housing, it plays a crucial role in how a switch feels and sounds when pressed down, further emphasizing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
While the Gateron CJ and the Durock Ice King Tactile feature different housing materials, they both ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The CJ's INK blend top housing offers a sharper and clacky sound, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a switch, demonstrating the importance of considering housing materials when designing switches for mechanical keyboards. Despite the differences in housing materials, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and customization when typing on either switch.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch which has an actuation force of 58 grams, making the Ice King Tactile slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force while the Ice King Tactile needs 68 grams, again making the Ice King Tactile slightly heavier. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ switch may be more appealing, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing users with a traditional typing experience with a bit more depth to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different feel when typing, with the CJ switch providing a more deliberate keystroke and the Ice King Tactile switch offering a quicker, more responsive touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 known for its chirpy and neutral characteristics, which give it a unique and distinct auditory profile. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound, providing a quieter and more refined typing experience. The CJ switch offers a higher-pitched clack, while the Ice King Tactile switch produces a dampened sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard and keycaps, the sound of each switch can be further influenced.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is characterized by its silky and frictionless qualities, delivering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a stepped sensation, providing a unique tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel aspects. The polished finish of the Ice King Tactile switch also contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a chirpy sound with a mild typing experience, while the Ice King Tactile offers a subdued sound with a silky, frictionless feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. It's important to consider how these switches will interact with your chosen keyboard and keycap combination to achieve the desired typing feel and sound profile. If you are looking for a linear switch with a unique sound and feel, the CJ may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a refined sound and smooth typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switch could be the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch with a medium bottom out force, a higher-pitched sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a creamy smooth feel with a pronounced tactile bump, a subdued sound profile, and a silky, frictionless typing experience, the Ice King Tactile could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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