Gateron CJ vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Red, both linear switches. The Gateron CJ is beloved for its unique and enjoyable presentation, offering a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the CJ is described as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Red, one key difference lies in the top housing. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, while the MX Red utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the CJ offering a clacky sound and the MX Red providing a rounder and duller sound.
Another point of comparison is found in the bottom housing of these switches. The CJ boasts a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the MX Red's nylon bottom housing. While both materials contribute to a fuller sound profile, the POM housing of the CJ may be preferred by those seeking a softer typing experience with less audible feedback, while the nylon bottom housing of the MX Red offers a more impactful bottom-out sound.
Despite differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CJ and Cherry MX Red switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users. Whether it be the clacky sound of the CJ's INK blend top housing or the fuller sound of the MX Red's nylon top housing, each switch provides its own distinct auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gateron CJ is also heavier at 60 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red, which does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Gateron CJ provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Cherry MX Red would be the better option as it has a lighter actuation force. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Gateron CJ is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. This means that users will get a similar typing experience with either switch, but with a different level of force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users can expect a similar feeling and result in terms of travel distance. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches indicates that the actuation point is reached relatively quickly during each keystroke, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience. Overall, whether using the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, users can anticipate a consistent travel distance and tactile response while typing or gaming.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound profile that sets it apart from other linear switches. This higher-pitched sound adds a playful element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound that resonates with a deep and satisfying tone. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the CJ leaning towards a chirpy sound and the MX Red delivering a thocky and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. This gentle feel makes it approachable for most users, as it doesn't have any extreme characteristics that might be off-putting to some. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its textured feel, which adds a subtle friction when pressed. This texture can be preferred by some users who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer their own unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The CJ provides a chirpy sound and mild feel, while the MX Red delivers a thocky sound and textured feel. Depending on whether you prefer a playful higher-pitched sound with a mild feel or a deep low-pitched sound with a textured feel, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should choose the Gateron CJ if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a higher-pitched and chirpy sound profile, and a mild typing experience. The CJ offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, you should opt for the Cherry MX Red if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a deeper and thocky sound profile, and a textured typing experience. The MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel, satisfying auditory depth, and classic Cherry switch characteristics. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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