Gateron CJ vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ and Cherry MX Silent Red both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can offer, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains the classic characteristics of its red counterpart, but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that may suit different preferences and needs. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The Gateron CJ and Cherry MX Silent Red both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with Gateron opting for a proprietary INK blend for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing, while Cherry MX Silent Red uses nylon for both housings. The Gateron CJ's INK blend top housing is lauded for its thin and higher-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky, while the POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound and create a rounder sound.
Despite using different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, both the Gateron CJ and Cherry MX Silent Red switches prioritize sound quality in different ways. The Gateron CJ's combination of the proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing results in a unique sound profile that is characterized by a mix of higher-pitched clackiness and deeper muted tones. In comparison, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top and bottom housings work together to produce a fuller and rounder sound that is more uniform throughout typing. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and Cherry MX Silent Red comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one prefers. If you enjoy a mix of higher-pitched and deeper tones, the Gateron CJ may be the better option with its proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing. On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent and fuller sound profile, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top and bottom housings may be more suitable. Both switches excel in providing a tactile and satisfying typing experience, showcasing the versatility and innovation in modern mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the CJ has a slightly heavier feel. The CJ requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the MX Silent Red only needs 45 grams to actuate. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the CJ requiring 60 grams and the MX Silent Red having an unknown bottom out force. This means that while the CJ may provide a slightly heavier typing experience, both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness, while the MX Silent Red caters to those looking for a faster response time with its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may lean towards the MX Silent Red for its quicker actuation, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the CJ. Both switches offer reliable performance, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 unique with its chirpy and higher-pitched clacks, giving it a lively and distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have a thocky tone, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, but the CJ stands out with its chirpy and lively sound compared to the more mellow profile of the MX Silent Red.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CJ switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, which falls in a safe middle ground zone in terms of key feel. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch has a textured feel, suggesting some noticeable friction when pressed. This textured sensation can provide a different typing experience compared to the smoother feel of the CJ switch. While the CJ provides a gentle and approachable typing experience, the MX Silent Red offers a more textured and potentially unique feel for users who prefer that sensation.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ is characterized by its chirpy sound and mild key feel, providing a unique and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a quieter sound profile with a textured key feel, catering to those who prefer a more muted typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches providing satisfying results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, then the Gateron CJ switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a quieter mechanical keyboard switch that still offers a satisfying typing experience with a slightly heftier feel, then the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound profile and typing feel. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your needs and typing style best.
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