Gateron CJ vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch are two popular options worth considering. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala provides a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump and a bit of resonance without being too loud. While the CJ offers a 'chirpy' and 'thocky' typing feel, the Koala is described as 'polished' and 'stiff'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Durock Koala both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer their distinct qualities, the polycarbonate top housing in the Koala may provide a clearer and more resonant sound due to its stiffness compared to the INK blend in the CJ.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron CJ boasts a POM bottom housing that creates a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, which is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Durock Koala features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. The difference in housing materials for the bottom of the switches can impact the overall typing experience, with the CJ offering a potentially softer sound profile compared to the fuller and deeper sound produced by the Koala.
While the Gateron CJ and the Durock Koala have differing top and bottom housing materials, each contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch, they both offer unique characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance in sound and feel when typing on the switches. Whether it's the clacky and thin sound of the CJ's INK blend top housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Koala's polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a distinct auditory experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the two. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Koala has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the CJ. The weight of a switch is significant as it can impact typing endurance and the overall feel of typing. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the CJ for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Koala for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be said that both switches provide a consistent keystroke experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of feel and feedback when using either switch. In terms of travel distance alone, there is no distinction between the two switches as they both offer a standard 4 mm distance.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, both switches fall under the category of having a low-pitched sound profile. However, the CJ switch is characterized by a chirpy and thocky sound, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Koala switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile with a bit of resonance, offering a balance between a bass-heavy tone and moderate volume level. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches will deliver satisfying auditory feedback while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for offering a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The smooth push feel of the CJ switch adds to its appeal, providing an enjoyable and consistent typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Koala tactile switch is characterized by its polished and accented feel, offering smooth key travel with a prominent yet not overwhelming amount of tactility. The stepped feature of the Koala switch also adds an extra layer of refinement to the typing sensation, giving users a subtle two-stage tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a unique chirpy and thocky sound with a mild typing experience, while the Koala switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a polished and accented feel that is refined and smooth. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, both switches offer enjoyable tactile feedback that will enhance the overall typing experience. With either switch, users can expect a satisfying and comfortable typing experience that meets their specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you enjoy a smooth and unique linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force and prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the CJ switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that provides a pronounced bump without being too overwhelming, along with a smooth and polished typing experience, the Koala switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the level of tactile feedback you desire.
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