Gateron CJ vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the Durock Mamba. The CJ is notorious for its unique take on linear switches, offering a delightful combination of higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth pushing sensation. This switch falls into the categories of being 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to the legendary Kobe Bryant and offers a superb typing experience as well. Users will appreciate the gliding sensation while typing and the rich and creamy sound. The Mamba switch is classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Both switches provide enjoyable and distinct characteristics, making them worthy options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch is perfect for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Durock Mamba differ in terms of their housing materials, specifically the top and bottom housings. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which gives it a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound when typing. On the other hand, the Mamba's top housing is made of a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, providing a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter in tone. Although they have different materials, both switches offer a unique and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the CJ and the Mamba employ POM (polyoxymethylene) as the material of choice. This choice creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile for both switches. The sound produced by the bottom housing is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to other materials. This affects the overall sound and feel when bottoming out a key. As such, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the CJ and Mamba differ, it is important to note that both pieces contribute to the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Consequently, users can expect similar results from both switches, albeit with slight differences in sound characteristics due to the varying housing materials. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron CJ and the Durock Mamba will largely depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is important to consider the weight of each switch. The CJ linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium category. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Mamba linear switch is currently unknown, but it also has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is again medium.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ linear switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, allowing for less strain on the fingers and improved endurance. Alternatively, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Mamba linear switch, as it potentially offers a stronger push feel.
While the actuation forces of the two switches have not been directly compared, the fact that both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams suggests that they may provide a similar overall typing experience in terms of resistance and feedback when fully pressed down. Therefore, if an individual desires a similar typing experience in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out, either the CJ or Mamba linear switch could meet their needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mamba. The CJ has a more traditional travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Mamba is on the shallower side with a 3.5 mm travel distance. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances like the Mamba. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when typing may lean towards the CJ, with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best described as chirpy, offering a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak. This sets it apart from other switches and gives it a distinctive character. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for various purposes and environments. However, it also features a thocky characteristic, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, both the CJ and the Mamba switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches are ideal for those who prefer a middle-ground typing experience that strikes a balance between smoothness and tactile feedback. Additionally, the Mamba switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience, likely due to the use of high-quality materials or factory lubing.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron CJ linear and Durock Mamba linear switches have their own unique qualities. The CJ switch stands out with its chirpy sound profile, higher-pitched clacks, and impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Mamba switch offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, thanks to its neutral sound profile and thocky characteristics. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, making them suitable for users of different skill levels and preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, depending on your personal preference, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ switches are a great choice. With higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, typing on these switches is a delight. The CJ switches also offer a variety of sound profiles, including a chirpy option that sets them apart from other switches. In terms of feel, the CJ switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, if you're a fan of Kobe Bryant or simply want a great linear switch, the Durock Mamba switches are a fantastic option. These switches offer a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience that is truly enjoyable. The Mamba switches have a neutral sound profile and a thocky option, which produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
In summary, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, choose the Gateron CJ switches. Alternatively, if you're a fan of the smooth and refined finish and want a gliding typing sensation with a rich auditory experience, the Durock Mamba switches are the perfect choice. Ultimately, both switches offer different qualities, so it depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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