Gateron CJ vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique and enjoyable features for typing enthusiasts. The CJ stands out for its higher-pitched clacks and remarkably smooth push feel, categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch produced by BSUN impresses with its high-pitched yet muted sound, designed for prolonged typing sessions with a bottom-out force of just 43.5g. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Milk Tea switch offers an effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches differ in terms of their sound profile. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin, high-pitched, and clacky sound, while the Milk Tea's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound. However, both switches share the use of POM for their bottom housing, resulting in a similarly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and muted. This common bottom housing material likely contributes to a consistent overall sound experience between the two switches.
In terms of the physical feel of the switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. The POM bottom housing in both the CJ and Milk Tea switches influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This shared bottom housing material may lead to a similar tactile experience between the two switches. On the other hand, the top housing material of each switch, the INK blend for the CJ and POM for the Milk Tea, affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction in top housing material may result in a noticeable difference in sound when typing on the two switches.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Gateron CJ and PH Studio Milk Tea switches result in different sound profiles, the shared POM bottom housing material likely leads to similar bottom-out sound and feel experiences between the switches. The differences in sound brought about by the top housing materials may offer users a choice between a higher-pitched, clacky sound from the CJ or a deeper, more muted sound from the Milk Tea. Ultimately, personal preference will play a key role in determining which switch housing material is preferred by individual users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea switch is lighter in both categories. The CJ switch has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a more effortless option for longer typing sessions. The CJ switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Milk Tea switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The CJ switch offers a more traditional travel distance, which may suit those who prefer a deeper key press feeling. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch provides a slightly shallower travel distance, making it a good choice for those seeking a faster response time, especially gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varied travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on whether one prefers a longer or shorter travel distance for their typing or 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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 is best described as "chirpy," offering a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is characterized as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While the CJ has a higher-pitched sound profile, the Milk Tea's sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will come down to personal preference, with the CJ offering a chirpier tone and the Milk Tea providing a bright and clacky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is characterized as "polished" and "silky," providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CJ switch aims for a more approachable typing feel, while the Milk Tea switch enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses. When it comes to feel, those looking for a more refined and smooth typing experience may prefer the Milk Tea switch over the CJ.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with its chirpy sound and mild feel, suitable for those looking for a slightly squeakier switch with a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a clacky sound profile and polished, silky feel, catering to users who prefer a sharper, crisper sound and a smoother typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, whether choosing the CJ or Milk Tea switch, users can expect to achieve satisfying results depending on their specific sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched sound with smooth push feel, the CJ switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a balance between presence and subtlety in sound, and a polished, smooth typing experience, the Milk Tea switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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