Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The CJ offers a unique and enjoyable linear typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown provides a classic tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight and high-precision molds. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', the Jupiter Brown falls into 'Mild', 'Polished', 'Stepped' categories. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and Gateron Jupiter Brown differ significantly in their housing materials. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Jupiter Brown uses polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The difference in sound profiles between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience, with the CJ being described as clacky and the Jupiter Brown as clear and resonant. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Brown's housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CJ utilizes POM, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to POM. The use of nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing materials can also impact the overall typing experience, with the CJ offering a unique sound profile and the Jupiter Brown providing a fuller sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, both switches are designed to provide a tactile typing experience. The CJ's combination of INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing offers a unique sound profile that is relatively more muted, while the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing produce a clearer and crisper sound. Although the sound profiles may vary between the two switches, they both strive to deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CJ features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The CJ switch is ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience, perfect for extended periods of use, while the Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial push feel, which some may find more satisfying for typing tasks. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation with both switches. Despite their similarities in travel distance, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer different typing experiences due to their different switch types. The CJ switch provides a smooth linear feel, while the Jupiter Brown switch offers a tactile bump for feedback during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and key response.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, providing a distinctive typing experience with higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are not specified in the provided information, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of sound. However, both switches produce satisfying sound profiles based on their descriptions, and the actual sound experienced will also depend on factors such as keyboard design and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch are described as offering a mild typing experience. The CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, while the Jupiter Brown switch features a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches are designed to provide a comfortable typing feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ switch is known for its chirpy sound and smooth push feel, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a classic keystroke feel with a polished finish. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience, tailored to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique, higher-pitched sound profile with an ultra-smooth typing experience, the CJ linear switch may be the right option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a classic keystroke feel with a blend of tradition and innovation, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch could be the perfect choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force to enhance your overall typing experience.
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