Gateron CJ vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique characteristics to offer. The CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the MoonRosa is known for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', and 'Mild' with a low-pitched 'Thocky' sound, the MoonRosa is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, so it ultimately depends on individual preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and KTT MoonRosa both feature POM bottom housings, which create a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This similarity in housing material results in a consistent feel and sound when pressing down on the switches. However, the CJ has a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, while the MoonRosa's POM top housing creates a more unique and deeper sound. This difference in top housing material leads to a varied sound profile when releasing a key between the two switches.
In terms of sound, the CJ's top housing material provides a clacky and satisfying thin sound, distinct from the MoonRosa's deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference in sound characteristics can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile. Additionally, the bottom housing material of the CJ and MoonRosa both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with the POM material offering a unique and pleasant typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Overall, while both the Gateron CJ and KTT MoonRosa share a POM bottom housing material that delivers a deep and muted sound profile, their top housing materials diverge in sound characteristics. The CJ's INK blend top housing produces a sharper and high-pitched sound, while the MoonRosa's POM top housing creates a deeper and more unique sound. This distinction in top housing material contributes to a noticeable difference in sound profiles between the two switches, catering to users with varying preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch differ significantly. The Gateron CJ has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The difference in weight between the two switches can cater to different preferences among users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the MoonRosa more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CJ, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ provides a slightly longer travel distance compared to the MoonRosa, meaning that you may feel a bit more resistance and depth when typing on the CJ. On the other hand, the MoonRosa offers a shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times, making it a popular choice for gamers. Both switches provide different experiences based on their travel distances, with the CJ offering a bit more depth and the MoonRosa providing a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ switch offers a chirpy and higher-pitched acoustic signature, making typing on them a unique experience with distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone, creating a more bass-heavy sound profile. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ and KTT MoonRosa switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentle key press without overly pronounced characteristics, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The MoonRosa switch also boasts an easy-to-press feature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, further reducing finger fatigue during use. While the exact feel may differ slightly between the two switches, both provide a pleasant typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and KTT MoonRosa switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The CJ switch delivers a chirpy and smooth typing experience, while the MoonRosa switch provides a buttery smooth feel with a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can enhance the overall typing experience depending on individual preferences. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and chirpy sound with a smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a low-pitched and mellow sound with an easy-to-press feature, the MoonRosa switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can enhance the typing experience based on individual preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique, higher-pitched clack sound with a smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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