Gateron CJ vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch. The Gateron CJ offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', while the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own appeal, providing different typing experiences. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Durock Medium Tactile differ significantly in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a satisfying sound, the INK blend provides a slightly softer tone, while the polycarbonate offers a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for those interested in RGB lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ boasts a POM bottom housing, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The POM material creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile when compared to other housing materials. Conversely, the Medium Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic choice for switch housings. The nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its relatively softer composition. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder tone. These differences in bottom housing materials will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Durock Medium Tactile bring distinct characteristics to the switches, it is important to note that the impact of each housing material varies depending on the action taken on the switch. The bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with its unique properties. In contrast, the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, while the CJ and the Medium Tactile may use different housing materials, they can provide similar results in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Medium Tactile's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the CJ at 60 grams and the Medium Tactile at 65 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, the CJ switch is lighter in terms of actuation force when compared to the Medium Tactile. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter touch, as it allows for extended typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This makes the CJ switch a suitable choice for work keyboards or long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This added resistance can enhance the typing feedback and may be favored by individuals desiring a more pronounced tactile response.
It is worth noting that although the actuation force for the Medium Tactile switch is unavailable, it can be assumed that it falls within a comparable range to the CJ switch, as both switches are classified as having a medium bottom out force. Therefore, individuals seeking similar results in terms of actuation force could potentially achieve this with either switch.
In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and are suitable for typing or gaming. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness with both options.
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 Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks, giving them a chirpy sound signature that sets them apart. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel. It is described as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that most people will find approachable. Meanwhile, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a pronounced yet balanced tactility. It is classified as an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback and may have some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the CJ being exceptionally smooth and the Durock Medium Tactile being polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable sound with its chirpy, higher-pitched clacks. It also provides an impossibly smooth push feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most typists. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unknown, and while it offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility and has a polished finish, its specific sound and feel characteristics are not described. Therefore, if you are looking for a linear switch with a distinctive sound and smooth feel, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a prominent tactility and polished finish, the Durock Medium Tactile should provide a satisfying typing experience. Although the specific sound characteristics of the Durock Medium Tactile are unknown, you can expect similar smoothness in the typing experience as both switches provide a polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that is suitable for most intents and purposes. When typing on CJ switches, you can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. The CJ is known for its chirpy sound profile, which sets it apart from other switches. It provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the CJ is a good option.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile is a fantastic choice. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force. This switch features a jelly-like sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. The Medium Tactile provides an accented tactility, which is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Durock Medium Tactile would depend on your personal preferences. If you enjoy linear switches with a unique and enjoyable presentation, opt for the CJ. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with pronounced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Medium Tactile is the way to go. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision.
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