Gateron CJ vs. KTT Matcha

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Matcha, stand out in their respective categories. The CJ, a linear switch, is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation. Typing on CJ switches provides a smooth push feel and produces higher-pitched clacks. With its categorization of being chirpy, neutral, and mild, the CJ switch offers a distinct combination of characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility. Typing on Matcha switches results in a distinct clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. Categorized as stepped, snappy, accented, clacky, feathery, and subtle, the Matcha switch offers a versatile and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

KTT Matcha Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and KTT Matcha switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. It is described as clacky and satisfyingly thin. In contrast, the Matcha switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, it delivers a more clear and resonant sound. However, both switches share similarities in having a higher-pitched sound and a satisfying clacky feel, though the Matcha switch's sound may be slightly sharper.

In terms of the bottom housing material, the CJ switch incorporates a POM (Polyoxymethylene) housing, resulting in a deep and relatively more muted sound profile. This material provides a unique and pleasing sound experience. On the other hand, the Matcha switch also includes a polycarbonate bottom housing. As with the top housing, this leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both housings contribute to the overall sound experience of the switch, but the CJ switch leans towards a deeper and more muted sound, while the Matcha switch offers a sharper and higher-pitched tone.

When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material impact different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch will primarily engage the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the keypress. The CJ switch's POM bottom housing, for example, will contribute to a deeper and more muted sound on key bottom-out. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it's the INK blend or polycarbonate, will play a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the specific combination of top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary to some extent.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Matcha's lighter actuation force of 40 grams. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force while the Matcha only needs 45 grams. This means that the CJ switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the Matcha switch provides a lighter and gentler feel, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preferences, with the CJ providing a more robust typing experience and the Matcha allowing for comfortable extended usage.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks, giving them a chirpy sound. This distinct acoustic signature sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch provides a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound when pressed. So, while the CJ offers a more chirpy tone, the Matcha provides a snappy and clacky sound.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel, making the typing experience enjoyable and comfortable. These switches fall into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has several descriptors that define its feel. It is a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It also falls into the snappy category, providing a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, it can be considered accented, which means it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. However, whether the Matcha switch is feathery or subtle is unknown from the given information.

Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The CJ provides a unique linear experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. In contrast, the Matcha offers a tactile experience with a comfortable, snappy tactility and a distinct clean bottom-out sound. While the CJ is best described as chirpy and mild, the Matcha is known for being clacky, stepped, and snappy. It's important to consider that these qualities also depend on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. In terms of sound, the CJ stands out with its chirpy tone, while the Matcha provides a clacky sound. When it comes to feel, the CJ offers a smooth push feel and falls into the mild category, while the Matcha has various descriptors such as stepped, snappy, and potentially feathery or subtle. Overall, both switches provide enjoyable experiences, but they differ in their unique qualities.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch, the Gateron CJ would be the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks when typing on them. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch, the KTT Matcha would be a great option. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, you can enjoy a comfortable and snappy tactility. Additionally, the Matcha provides a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when making your decision. If you prefer a chirpy or low-pitched sound, go for the CJ, while if you prefer a clacky sound, choose the Matcha. In terms of feel, the CJ offers a mild typing experience, while the Matcha provides options such as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the KTT Matcha comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more