Gateron CJ vs. KTT Kang White

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Kang White are two options that offer unique characteristics. The Gateron CJ is a linear switch that stands out for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', making it a versatile option for those who value a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White is also a linear switch, but is known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Kang White offers a poppy feel that can enhance the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

KTT Kang White Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$1.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the KTT Kang White differ in terms of their housing materials, specifically the top and bottom housings. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed, relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound profile. This thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. However, despite the differences in sound, both the CJ and Kang White offer satisfying auditory experiences.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ incorporates POM (Polyoxymethylene) material, which results in a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. The CJ's POM housing brings a unique and pleasing sound characteristic to the switch. On the other hand, the Kang White features a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to POM.

When considering the overall sound experience of these switches, it is important to understand that the top and bottom housings play distinctive roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, making it contribute more to the typing experience when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gateron CJ and the KTT Kang White differ in their housing materials, the resulting sound profiles and typing experiences can still be satisfying in their own ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Kang White requires 45 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, providing a balanced and responsive typing experience. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams, while the Kang White requires 58 grams. This means that both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down on the keys.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kang White switch, as it requires slightly less force for actuation. This lighter actuation force allows for extended typing periods, making it suitable for those who use their keyboard for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CJ switch, which requires a slightly heavier actuation force. This heavier push can provide a sense of solidity and satisfaction during typing.

In summary, while the CJ and Kang White switches have differences in actuation and bottom out forces, they both fall into the medium range, offering a balanced typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences, with the CJ providing a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel, and the Kang White offering a lighter actuation force for longer periods of comfortable typing.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This distance determines the amount of movement or key travel you feel when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down either switch, you will experience the same level of key travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron CJ linear switch stands out with its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on the CJ, users can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. This switch is often described as "chirpy," which means it has a slight squeak to it, giving it a distinctive acoustic signature. Additionally, the CJ offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users.

On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch. Typing on the Kang White produces a dazzling sound that is described as low-pitched, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This switch also offers an unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. However, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Kang White switch.

Considering the available information, the CJ and Kang White switches offer different subjective qualities. The CJ provides a higher-pitched and chirpy sound with an impossibly smooth feel. On the other hand, the Kang White offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound and an unparalleled smoothness. While the feel of the Kang White is unknown, the CJ is described as offering a mild and approachable typing experience. It's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. If you are looking for a similar sound experience, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a higher-pitched clack and an impossibly smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a poppy typing sound with unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go.

In terms of sound, the CJ offers a variety of options including a chirpy switch with a unique acoustic signature, a neutral switch suitable for most intents and purposes, a low-pitched switch with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, and a thocky switch that produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The Kang White, on the other hand, provides a low-pitched switch and a neutral switch with a moderate sound profile.

In terms of feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Kang White switch.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are seeking. Consider the sound characteristics and the typing feel described for each switch to determine which one aligns better with your preferences. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more