Gateron CJ vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Brown are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different qualities and typing experiences. The CJ is known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on it, users can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It falls under the categories of being 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown can be described in one word: subtlety. These switches provide a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own appeal and benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Brown switches differ in terms of sound profiles and material composition. The CJ switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched clacky sound. In contrast, the MX Brown switch utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the CJ's INK blend top housing. While both switches produce pleasing sounds, the CJ switch has a distinct clacky characteristic, while the MX Brown switch offers a deeper and fuller sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the CJ switch employs a POM material that creates a unique and relatively more muted sound. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch uses a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The POM housing of the CJ switch produces a deeper sound, but the overall profile is relatively more muted compared to the MX Brown's nylon bottom housing. Both housing materials deliver satisfying sounds, with the CJ's POM resulting in a deeper and more muted tone, while the MX Brown's nylon offers a fuller and deeper sound.
In terms of keypress experience, the bottom housing plays a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. This means that the material of the bottom housing, whether it be the POM or nylon, will influence the tactile feedback and sound produced upon pressing a key. On the other hand, the top housing's material, whether it be the INK blend or nylon, has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing primarily affecting the keypress sensation and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams, making the CJ switch require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. Similarly, the CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the CJ switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to fully press down.
However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, offering a similar level of resistance overall. This makes them suitable for most users who prefer a balanced typing experience. Some may find that the CJ switch's slightly heavier forces provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, while others may prefer the slightly lighter touch of the MX Brown for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the distance you feel when you press down on a key will be similar for both switches. This means that whether you choose the CJ or the MX Brown, you can expect a consistent and satisfying tactile 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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a unique acoustic experience. Known for their higher-pitched clacks, these switches have a distinctive chirpy sound that sets them apart from others. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a more subtle audio feedback. Its low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone, provides a gentle and subdued typing experience. The choice of the board and keycaps also plays a role in the overall sound produced by both switches, so it's essential to consider these factors as well. Overall, if you prefer a more distinctive and chirpy sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle and bass-heavy sound, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is an excellent option. Both switches provide enjoyable auditory experiences, each with its unique qualities.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers an impressively smooth push feel. Typing on these switches feels impossibly smooth, providing a satisfying experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility. It offers a mild, textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may favor a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel. It provides a chirpy sound and an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch excels in subtlety, offering a more gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. It provides a bass-heavy and mellow sound, along with a relatively light typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, with the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, tailored to your own preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. The CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It is described as having a chirpy or low-pitched sound profile, which sets it apart from other switches. The CJ switch also provides a mild feel, giving a gentle typing experience that most find approachable. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch is known for its subtlety, offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. It has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. However, it is worth noting that some users may find the MX Brown switch to have a textured or scratchy feel when pressed, which may or may not be preferred depending on personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your preference for sound and feel, with the CJ switch offering a unique and enjoyable experience, and the MX Brown switch providing a subtle and smooth typing experience.
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