Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences catering to different preferences. The CJ stands out for its high-pitched clacks and silky smooth push feel, making it an enjoyable option for those who appreciate a unique linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. While the CJ provides a chirpy and low-pitched typing sensation, the Mini i offers a bouncy and snappy keystroke feel. Both switches have their own strengths, making them suitable for specific preferences and environments. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mini i switches have top housings 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 Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The key difference here is that the CJ's top housing creates a sharper sound compared to the Mini i's more rounded sound due to the materials used.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches use different materials that affect the sound profile when the key is pressed down. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a relatively more muted and deeper sound, while the Mini i's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite using different materials, both bottom housings enhance the overall typing experience by absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to harder plastics.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of a switch. While the CJ and Mini i switches use different materials for their housing, they both aim to provide a satisfying sound profile for users. The CJ's unique blend of INK materials offers a sharper and clackier sound, while the Mini i's classic nylon materials create a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we can see differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The CJ linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a bit heavier compared to the Mini i tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Mini i switch would be more suitable, while the CJ switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier force requirements. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force, but the difference lies in the preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mini i. In terms of typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Mini i may result in faster response times, making it a favorite among gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the CJ may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 known for its higher-pitched and chirpy sound profile, creating a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the CJ switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. In contrast, the Mini i switch is described as bouncy and easy-to-press, offering a spring-like feedback and requiring minimal force to activate.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences to users. The CJ switch delivers a chirpy sound with an impossibly smooth push feel, while the Mini i switch provides a balanced, neutral sound with gentle tactility in each keystroke. While both switches have their unique qualities, individuals seeking a more distinctive sound may prefer the CJ, while those looking for a subtle and comfortable typing experience may lean towards the Mini i. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a unique and smooth linear feel with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a slightly higher-pitched sound profile, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility, a lighter 50-gram bottom out force, and a more muted sound profile suitable for office environments, the Mini i switch would be more appropriate. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your desired typing experience and environment, whether it be for work or leisure.
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