Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, both the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Light Sakura offer distinct experiences, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its unique auditory and tactile qualities, providing the user with higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel. This linear switch strikes a balance between a chirpy and mildly thocky sound profile, making it an exciting choice for those who appreciate a more auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for comfort and discretion, featuring an ultra-light action that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its silent operation makes it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces, where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While both switches provide a smooth linear experience, the Gateron CJ caters to the sensory enthusiast, while the Light Sakura emphasizes quiet comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Light Sakura switches, the primary difference lies in their top housings. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend plastic that is designed to produce a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound profile. This contrast is notable when compared to the Bsun Light Sakura, which utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharper and crisper auditory output. Both material choices lead to a higher-pitched sound, yet the CJ's INK blend gives a more nuanced character, allowing for subtle variations in tonality that can enhance the typing experience. Thus, while the two materials aim for a similar auditory effect, they achieve it through distinct acoustic qualities.
The bottom housings are where a significant divergence occurs. The CJ utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing that contributes to a unique, deep, and muted sound profile. This material provides a more subdued tactile experience, impacting the overall feel during keypresses. Conversely, the Light Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing that aligns with its top counterpart, lending a sharper and crisper sound profile. In this instance, the synergy of polycarbonate throughout both housing sections produces a more uniform and resonant sound experience, whereas the CJ’s mixed material approach divides the auditory characteristics, resulting in a deeper accentuation from the POM material beneath.
The interaction of top and bottom housing materials significantly influences the auditory and tactile qualities of each switch. In the CJ switch, the pointed sound produced by the top housing merges with the deep, muted tones from the POM bottom housing, creating a layered impact where the release sound is affected by the top and the bottom-out feel is shaped by the bottom. In contrast, the Light Sakura offers a more cohesive sound experience due to both housings being polycarbonate, ensuring consistency in the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. Ultimately, while both switches may deliver satisfying sounds suitable for gamers and typists alike, the distinct combination of materials in each contributes to their unique characters, satisfying different preferences among enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CJ has a firmer actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch that may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura boasts a notably lighter actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. This means that the CJ switch will provide a heavier feel overall, while the Light Sakura switch is designed for effortless keystrokes. Consequently, users will experience a different typing sensation, with the Gateron CJ offering a more tactile resistance compared to the airy feedback of the Light Sakura.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the CJ offers a traditional, more pronounced depth, which can provide a fuller tactile experience for users who appreciate that sensation. In contrast, the Light Sakura's travel distance caters to users who prefer quicker response times, making it a more attractive option for gamers looking for agility in their keystrokes. Consequently, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the Bsun Light Sakura with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be your go-to choice, whereas those who favor a deeper keypress might lean toward the Gateron CJ for its longer 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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 has a unique acoustic profile that sets it apart from typical linear switches. Known for producing higher-pitched clacks, these switches add a chirpy element to the typing experience, accented by a neutral overall sound. Their ability to deliver a low-pitched, thocky sound with each keystroke also enhances the auditory enjoyment, creating a rich and satisfying feedback. On the contrary, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed to operate silently, prioritizing discretion. This makes it incredibly suitable for office environments or shared spaces, allowing you to type without drawing attention or disturbing those around you. Therefore, while both switches offer distinct sound experiences, the CJ provides a more vibrant auditory environment, while the Light Sakura focuses purely on quiet efficiency.
In terms of feel, the CJ switch nails a mild typing experience that is approachable for a wide audience. It balances smoothness with control, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned typists who appreciate a gentle push without any harshness. The tactile feedback is subtly reassuring without being overwhelming. Meanwhile, the Bsun Light Sakura's ultra-light feel offers a different experience, designed to minimize fatigue during long typing sessions. This switch invites prolonged use with its focus on comfort, catering to those who may find heavier options tiring. Consequently, while both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the CJ emphasizes a smooth and mild touch, while the Light Sakura prioritizes lightness and comfort.
In summary, while the Gateron CJ linear switch enhances typing through a dynamic auditory presence and a mild feel, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch takes the approach of quiet, comfortable operation ideal for extended use in shared environments. Both switches serve different kinds of users—those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience versus those who prioritize discretion and comfort. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what aspects of typing you value most: if you prefer a more vibrant sound and feel, the CJ is advantageous; while the Light Sakura suits those seeking a gentle and silent touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a unique auditory experience and appreciate a medium bottom-out force, the CJ's chirpy and thocky sound profile, along with its smooth feel, will provide an engaging typing experience. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who want to enjoy the tactile and acoustic sensations of typing, whether at home or in a quieter workspace. Conversely, if your priority is comfort during extended typing sessions or working in shared spaces, the Light Sakura's ultra-light bottom-out force and silent operation make it an excellent choice. Its gentle actuation requires less effort, reducing fatigue, and its discreet nature ensures that you won’t disrupt others around you. Ultimately, the right switch for you hinges on whether you value auditory feedback and tactile engagement or prioritization of silence and ergonomic comfort.
Mentioned in this article
