Gateron CJ vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, you have two exceptional linear options to consider. The Gateron CJ offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response and full height design for maximum speed, making it a favorite among gamers. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', the MX Speed Silver is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Speed Silver are both designed to create unique sound profiles when typing. While the CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound. The contrast between the two materials is evident in the resulting sound experience for users, with the CJ offering a clacky and thin sound, while the MX Speed Silver provides a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron CJ utilizes a POM material that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver uses a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a fuller sound experience. The difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches contributes to the overall typing experience, with the CJ offering a deeper sound profile compared to the MX Speed Silver's fuller sound. Despite the variation in bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a unique and satisfying sound for users.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is clear that each material brings its own qualities to the switch. The bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Although the Gateron CJ and the Cherry MX Speed Silver may differ in their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing sound profile and experience provided by both switches.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CJ requires 60 grams of force, whereas the Cherry MX Speed Silver does not specify a bottom out force. This means that the CJ switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver switch offers a lighter actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gateron CJ linear switch has a longer travel distance, making it more suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a shorter travel distance, which caters to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. In this case, choosing the switch with the shorter travel distance would result in a quicker key press, while opting for the switch with the longer travel distance would provide a more deliberate 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 switch is known for its chirpy and higher-pitched clacks, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch has a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. Depending on personal preferences, the CJ switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more distinctive and lively typing sound, while the MX Speed Silver switch may be favored by those who prefer a deeper and more mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CJ switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its safe middle-ground qualities. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, which refers to noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer the subtle texture for added feedback, others may find it less desirable compared to a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its higher-pitched sound and mild feel, perfect for those seeking a distinctive switch with a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch excels in rapid response and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers where speed is crucial. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent performance in their respective areas, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, you should consider the qualities that best suit your needs. If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you prioritize rapid response and instant triggering, especially for gaming where speed is crucial, the MX Speed Silver switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming style.
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