Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Both the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Ink Black V2 are linear switches, but they each offer a unique typing experience. The CJ is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has been a favorite within the community for a long time. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack. The CJ switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', while the Ink Black V2 is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, making them attractive options for different 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Gateron Ink Black V2 share similar characteristics in their housing materials. Both switches feature proprietary INK blend top housings, which contribute to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound, although it is not overly sharp in either switch.
However, the difference comes in the bottom housing material. The CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to the top housing. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend in the bottom housing as well, complementing the top housing. This means that the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When it comes to the overall experience of typing or gaming with these switches, the choice of housing materials impacts the sound and feel differently. The CJ's POM bottom housing gives it a distinct and relatively quieter bottom-out sound, while the Ink Black V2 with its dual INK blend housing offers a more consistent sound throughout the keystroke. The top housing, regardless of the switch, affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience of using these switches.
In summary, while the top housing materials are the same for the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Ink Black V2, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The CJ utilizes POM housing, offering a deeper and quieter sound, while the Ink Black V2 incorporates the INK blend in both top and bottom housings, resulting in a more consistent sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing or gaming sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. The CJ switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ink Black V2 requires a slightly stronger push with an actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CJ switch requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Ink Black V2 switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the CJ switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lightweight characteristic can be beneficial for longer typing sessions, such as when using the keyboard for work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those desiring a more substantial and firm typing feel might find the heavier forces of the Ink Black V2 switch to be more suitable. The increased actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push, resulting in a more tactile and satisfying keystroke experience.
In conclusion, while the CJ switch offers a lighter touch with medium forces, the Ink Black V2 switch presents a heavier and more solid typing experience with medium-heavy forces. Both switches have their own unique qualities to cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the desired actuation and bottom out forces that suit their specific typing needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent typing or gaming experiences regardless of whether they opt for the Gateron CJ or the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch. Therefore, whether you choose one over the other, you can achieve similar results in terms of the travel distance and the tactile feedback provided by these switches.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It has a chirpy acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a long-time community favorite, known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. It has a low-pitched sound profile with bass-heavy and mellow tones. Both switches have a chirpy sound characteristic, but the CJ switch has a higher-pitched clack while the Ink Black V2 switch has a more bass-heavy sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CJ and Ink Black V2 linear switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They both stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches offer different but enjoyable qualities. The CJ switch has a higher-pitched clack, while the Ink Black V2 switch has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, making them approachable for most users. The Ink Black V2 switch also has the benefit of a polished finish, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel. However, if you are looking for a similar experience, both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, then the CJ switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clacks, the Ink Black V2 switch is an excellent option.
In terms of sound, the CJ switch offers a chirpy and neutral sound profile, which sets it apart from the rest. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch provides a low-pitched and bassy tone, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. Both switches have a slight chirpy characteristic, but it's more prominent in the CJ switch.
When it comes to feel, both switches fall under the category of mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Ink Black V2 switch has the added benefit of being polished, resulting in a smoother and more refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In the end, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch boils down to individual preference. Consider the unique qualities and characteristics of each switch, and choose the one that aligns with your personal sound and feel preferences. Whether you prioritize the CJ switch's unique presentation or the Ink Black V2 switch's classic and smooth feel, both options are sure to provide an enjoyable typing experience.
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