Gateron CJ vs. TKC Kiwi

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch. The CJ switches are well-known for their unique and enjoyable presentation of linearity. Typing on them produces a higher-pitched clack and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press. They offer a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, delivering a truly immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$8.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the TKC Kiwi switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a satisfying clacky sound that is not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, which offers a very bright sound signature and resonant clacks. While both switches provide a clacky sound, the CJ switch may have a slightly lower pitch compared to the Kiwi.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ switch incorporates a POM housing, resulting in a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. This creates a more muted sound when compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing. The Kiwi switch, on the other hand, leverages UHWMPE as the material for its bottom housing. This newer material offers a bright sound signature, emphasizing resonant clacks when typing. While both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, the CJ switch may offer a deeper and more muted sound due to its POM bottom housing, whereas the Kiwi switch provides a brighter and more resonant sound with its UHWMPE bottom housing.

It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials varies depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. Therefore, the qualities of the POM or UHWMPE bottom housing will affect the switch's overall sound profile while typing. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when you release a key. So, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the TKC Kiwi, the sound experience will differ slightly depending on whether you are typing or releasing the keys.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Kiwi is slightly lighter at 43 grams. Although both switches fall under the medium force category, the Kiwi offers a slightly lighter actuation force, which may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Kiwi is heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to fully depress the keys. For individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, the Kiwi's heavier bottom out force may be more suitable.

In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer different actuation and bottom out forces. The CJ has a slightly higher actuation force but a lower bottom out force, while the Kiwi is lighter in terms of actuation force but requires more force to fully press down. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and familiar feel when pressed down on a key. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance that users feel when they press down on a key. In terms of travel distance, both the Gateron CJ and TKC Kiwi switches offer the same experience, ensuring that users will get similar results when typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks. It has a chirpy acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone. It delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, so the choice depends on personal preference and the other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel. It falls into the category of mild switches, which offer a gentle typing experience and stand in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers an accented feel, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Again, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference and typing style.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The CJ provides a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Kiwi tactile switch enhances the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. The CJ is best for those seeking a chirpy, smooth linear switch, while the Kiwi is ideal for individuals who prefer a low-pitched, accented tactile switch. It is important to consider personal preference, typing style, and the overall setup like the keyboard and keycaps when choosing between these switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ is a great choice. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the CJ offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, giving you a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience, the TKC Kiwi is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Kiwi provides a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, resulting in a snappy sound profile and a truly immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. In terms of sound, both switches offer a low-pitched option, which delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. As for feel, the CJ offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most, while the Kiwi switches provide options like stepped, accented, and polished, giving you various levels of tactility and smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and TKC Kiwi depends on your preference for linear switches with a unique presentation or tactile switches with a satisfying bump and snappy sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

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TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more