Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a vast array of options, each with its own unique qualities. In this comparison, we will take a closer look at two linear switches from Gateron: the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Oil King. The CJ switch is known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Oil King switch captures our hearts with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a snapping dark chocolate bar. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Oil King differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Oil King employs a nylon top housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the CJ's INK blend has a clacky and thinner sound, the Oil King's nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ incorporates a POM material that generates a unique and pleasing sound profile. This sound tends to be deeper and relatively more muted compared to the CJ's top housing. In contrast, the Oil King utilizes the same proprietary INK blend found in its top housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound profile. Both bottom housings contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, with the CJ's POM housing producing a slightly different effect compared to the Oil King's INK blend.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Oil King share similarities in terms of their top housing sound profiles. While the CJ's proprietary INK blend creates a clacky and higher-pitched sound, the Oil King's nylon top housing produces a fuller and deeper sound. Additionally, both switches feature a bottom housing that utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound. Thus, although the materials themselves differ, users can expect similar results in terms of the sound profiles when comparing the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Oil King requires 55 grams. This means that the CJ has a slightly lighter actuation force compared to the Oil King.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key down, whereas the Oil King requires 65 grams. This indicates that the Oil King has a heavier bottom out force compared to the CJ.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the CJ, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This can be beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or indulge in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force, such as the Oil King. This heavier force provides a stronger push feel, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy the additional resistance.
In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so while there are differences, individuals seeking similar results in terms of force may find satisfaction with either option.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This distance is what you feel when you press down on a key. In the case of the Gateron CJ linear switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. Similarly, the Gateron Oil King linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance. This means that regardless of whether you use the CJ or Oil King switch, you can expect to experience a similar travel distance when 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on the CJ, users will experience higher-pitched clacks and detect an impossibly smooth push feel. In terms of sound, the CJ switch can be described as chirpy, with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The CJ switch also has a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the CJ switch does not exhibit the thocky sound characteristic.
On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is easily one of the favorites among linear switches. When using the Oil King, users will experience a buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. In terms of sound, the Oil King switch has a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also offers a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, no specific descriptors such as chirpy or thocky are mentioned for the Oil King switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ and Oil King linear switches excel in providing smooth and enjoyable typing experiences. The CJ switch offers a unique and chirpy sound with a smooth push feel, while the Oil King switch provides buttery smoothness with a sound profile reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the Oil King also offers a bassy sound characteristic. Overall, if one is looking for a smooth and enjoyable linear switch, either the Gateron CJ or Oil King will deliver similar results. However, the specific sound and feel characteristics mentioned differentiate the two switches, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ switches would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a medium typing experience. When using the CJ switches, you can expect higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. In terms of sound, CJ switches are described as chirpy, neutral, low-pitched, and thocky. These switches offer a versatile range of sound profiles to suit your preference.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience, the Gateron Oil King switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience. When using the Oil King switches, you can expect buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. In terms of sound, Oil King switches are described as low-pitched and bassy, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses.
Ultimately, the choice between Gateron CJ and Gateron Oil King switches will depend on your preferences. If you value uniqueness, higher-pitched clacks, and versatility in sound profiles, go for the CJ switches. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience and a deep, rich sound profile, the Oil King switches are the better option. Both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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