Gateron CJ vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Miaowu are two compelling options to consider. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable take on a linear switch, offering a smooth push feel accompanied by higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to its utilization of POK in the stem. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Miaowu is characterized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific features and performance can help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the KTT Miaowu both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the CJ featuring a pointed sound and the Miaowu producing a crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. However, both switches offer a satisfying sound experience that is sure to please enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing material, the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and rounder sound. The difference in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to the properties of POM and nylon plastics. POM is known for creating a unique sound experience that is deeper and more subtle, while nylon absorbs more sound and produces a duller, rounder sound. Both bottom housing materials offer a distinct typing experience that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, while the Gateron CJ and the KTT Miaowu feature different housing materials for both the top and bottom components, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The mix of INK blend and POM in the CJ and polycarbonate and nylon in the Miaowu offers a variety of sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches provide options for enthusiasts to choose from. Additionally, the impact of the housing materials on the sound profile when pressing down or releasing a key further demonstrates the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into designing high-quality mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In comparison, the KTT Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. The lighter actuation force of the Miaowu may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the CJ may attract users who desire a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feedback and the desired level of force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the CJ being on the longer side and the Miaowu on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing experience and gaming needs.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its unique and enjoyable chirpy sound, which sets it apart with a little squeak that adds character to each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. When it comes to feel, the CJ offers a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. In contrast, the Miaowu switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Overall, the CJ excels in providing a higher-pitched clack and an impossibly smooth push feel, while the Miaowu leverages enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the chirpy CJ for a unique typing experience or the clacky Miaowu for a sharp and lively feel. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that align with your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique, higher-pitched sound with an impossibly smooth typing experience, the Gateron CJ switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value stem stability with a smoother keystroke action, along with a lively and bouncy typing feel, the KTT Miaowu switch could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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