Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, and two compelling choices are the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Jade Rosales, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Gateron CJ stands out with its unique sound profile, characterized by higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate a responsive tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions. Described as 'Chirpy' and 'Thocky,' it strikes a balance that appeals to users seeking both auditory and tactile pleasure. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales, developed by XY Studio through meticulous refinement over a year, provides a different kind of smoothness that many users cherish. Its custom housings and stems are designed to offer a quieter typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more understated yet equally satisfying feel. While the CJ may cater to those who enjoy elevated acoustic feedback, the Jade Rosales is ideal for users seeking an exceptionally refined and silent operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Y3X
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and Bsun Jade Rosales switches differ in the materials used for their top housings, which significantly affects their sound profiles and overall experience. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky without being overly sharp. Conversely, the Bsun Jade Rosales utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that yield a sharper, crisper sound. Both switches, despite their different top housing materials, focus on higher-pitched sound characteristics, suggesting that users will experience a similar auditory quality while typing, albeit with nuances that reflect the distinct properties of their respective materials.
On the bottom housing front, the Gateron CJ utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material, which contributes a deeper and more muted sound profile. This quality contrasts with the Bsun Jade Rosales's custom milky material bottom housing, which is described as a proprietary blend that could potentially influence the switch's acoustic and tactile feedback. The combination of these different bottom housing materials may yield variations in the overall sound and feel during key presses. Users of both switches may still find enjoyment in the sound experience due to the notable differences between the muted POM and possibly resonant custom material, which can enhance or modify the characteristics demonstrated by the top housings.
In user experience terms, the impact of these housing materials becomes especially significant when pressing down on the switches versus releasing them. The POM bottom housing of the Gateron CJ is designed to provide a muted depth to the bottom-out sound, making it suitable for quieter environments. Meanwhile, the Jade Rosales's custom milky material could add a different texture to the actuation and bottom-out experience. Ultimately, while both switches promise an engaging sound profile thanks to their higher-pitched top housings, the contrasting bottom materials will likely create unique auditory and tactile experiences. The result is a diverse range of preferences tailored to the needs of keyboard enthusiasts who may value different aspects of sound and feedback in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, we see a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it the heavier option and suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which appeals to those who favor a more effortless keystroke for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. While both switches fall into the medium and medium-light categories respectively, the differences in their force requirements mean that users can expect a different tactile experience, with the CJ providing more resistance compared to the Jade Rosales. Consequently, the Jade Rosales is better suited for users looking for a lighter touch, whereas the CJ would be favored by those seeking a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, the CJ stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jade Rosales features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gateron CJ provides a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to users who prefer the traditional, deeper feel of a longer travel switch. The Jade Rosales, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation, which is often favored by gamers for its efficiency during fast-paced gameplay. The choice between the two ultimately hinges on personal preference: if you enjoy a more substantial and gradual keypress, the CJ would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a snappier feel with less travel, the Jade Rosales would be ideal.
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 Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 acoustic signature that distinguishes it from other switches. Its sound profile features higher-pitched clacks, which can be characterized as chirpy, adding a playful dimension to the typing experience. In addition to this distinctive sound, the CJ maintains a neutral tone that balances well for various environments—be it at home or in an office setting. This variety ensures that users can enjoy a dynamic sound while still accommodating different use cases. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches lack specific sound descriptions, leaving the acoustic qualities of this refined switch open to exploration, and any noticeable differences in sound will heavily depend on the keycap and board combinations used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ is known for its impossibly smooth typing experience, making it a delightful choice for users seeking a gentle touch. The CJ linear switch strikes a balance with its mild feedback, creating a comfortable typing experience suitable for both beginners and experienced typists. This mildness allows for effortless key presses while avoiding the fatigue sometimes associated with more aggressive switches. Conversely, there is no additional information available about the feel of the Jade Rosales switches, leaving the tactile feedback uncertain.
In summary, both the Gateron CJ and Bsun Jade Rosales switches are designed to offer a smooth typing experience, but they present different acoustic and tactile profiles that cater to various user preferences. The CJ provides a chirpy and playful sound along with a mild feeling during use, making it a versatile choice for most typists. In contrast, the Jade Rosales switches promise meticulous refinement but lack detailed sound and feel characteristics for direct comparison. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfactory performance, and personal preference will play a significant role in determining which is best suited for an individual's typing style.
Conclusion
In the final analysis, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a slightly heavier force with a touch more character in your typing feel — one that’s smooth yet has a unique chirpy and thocky sound signature — the Gateron CJ would likely be a great fit for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a balanced experience that can be enjoyable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter touch that still offers smooth performance, the Jade Rosales with its lower 53-gram bottom-out force could be the better choice, particularly if you appreciate a refined feel that has been meticulously tuned for an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Ultimately, if sound plays a crucial role in your decision-making, the CJ's engaging acoustic profile might appeal to you more than the Jade Rosales, which lacks a defined sound description. Consider what elements matter most to you — whether it’s the engaging sound of the CJ or the buttery smoothness of the Jade Rosales — and your typing style, as these factors will guide you to the switch that best suits your needs.
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