Gateron CJ vs. KTT Lightning

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the KTT Lightning, also a linear switch. The CJ is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on CJ switches delivers higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, making it a delight for those who appreciate a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switches from KTT are renowned for their "speed" capabilities. These switches are designed for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat, offering a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the characteristics of the CJ and Lightning switches, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

KTT Lightning Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Lightning switches are both designed to enhance the sound profile of the switch, but they achieve this in different ways. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound. This blend is characterized by a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. While both materials enhance the sound profile, the CJ's INK blend offers a more pointed and balanced sound, while the Lightning's polycarbonate provides a sharper and clearer tone.

The differences continue with the bottom housings of these switches. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. POM housings are known for producing a deeper sound profile, adding depth and character to typing experiences. On the other hand, the Lightning's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both bottom housings enhance the sound in their own way, the CJ's POM creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Lightning's nylon elicits a fuller and rounder tone.

When considering the overall sound profile of the switches, the housing materials play a crucial role. The CJ switch, with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, provides a more balanced and relatively higher-pitched sound. The blend of materials leads to a clacky sound on keypress and a deeper, more muted tone on bottom-out. On the other hand, the Lightning switch, utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound overall. The polycarbonate contributes to the clear and resonant sound on keypress, while the nylon absorbs more sound resulting in a rounder and fuller tone during bottom-out. In summary, while both switches enhance the sound profile, the CJ provides a more balanced and clacky experience, while the Lightning offers a sharper and crisper sound with a fuller bottom-out.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CJ switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which fall under the medium category. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Lightning switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. The lighter actuation force of the Lightning switch allows for faster and lighter typing, making it ideal for situations where extended typing sessions are desired, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions.

Alternatively, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gateron CJ switch. With its higher actuation force, typing on the CJ switch provides a more tactile and responsive feel. This can be advantageous for those who enjoy the satisfaction of a heavier keystroke and the added precision it brings to their typing or gaming experience.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches have relatively similar measurements. The Gateron CJ requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key, while the KTT Lightning requires slightly less at 50 grams. This means that users can expect a similar amount of resistance when fully pressing down the keys on both switches.

In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a medium actuation and bottom out force, providing a tactile and substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch has a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While the Gateron CJ offers a heavier typing feel, the slight difference in bottom out force between the two switches should result in a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down the keys.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the CJ has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, while 3.0 mm is considered to be more shallow. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if responsiveness is a priority for you, opting for the Lightning switch would be a good choice. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the CJ switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. With higher-pitched clacks, it has a distinct chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch provides a clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright tone. Although both switches can be described as chirpy, they have different acoustic signatures.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel and is often described as mild. It offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. It is not feather-light but still provides a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Lightning switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and KTT Lightning linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch has a chirpy sound profile with higher-pitched clacks and provides a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a clacky sound and a subtle, polished feel. It is important to note that personal preference, along with other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. However, based on the provided information, it appears that the CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable sound, while the Lightning switch focuses on providing a fast and responsive typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ linear switch might be the right choice for you. It offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, providing a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness with a light bottom out force, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a great option. It is known for its slick typing feel and clacky sound profile, making it perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. When it comes to sound, the CJ offers a neutral or low-pitched tone, while the Lightning offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the CJ provides a mild typing experience, while the Lightning offers a subtle resistance and polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. Consider your preferences and requirements to make an informed decision between these two switches. Overall, both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to your specific needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

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KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more