Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, to the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, some clear distinctions arise. The CJ is celebrated for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is known for its distinctive clicky sound but lacks a specific defining characteristic. Choosing between the two switches can depend on your preference for the type of typing experience you desire. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue switches offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the Blue's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Despite the variations in sound profiles, both the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a well-rounded typing experience. The CJ's POM bottom housing offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side, while the Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The CJ's INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Overall, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the CJ's INK blend and POM housing offer a distinctive clacky sound and unique typing experience, the Blue's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a crisper and fuller sound profile. Whether one prefers a sharper sound with the Blue switch or a deeper, more muted sound with the CJ switch, both options provide quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. In terms of overall performance, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback from both switches due to the care put into selecting appropriate housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a similar level of sensitivity in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, they differ in their bottom out forces. The CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the CJ requires a slightly heavier press to fully depress the key compared to the Blue, which may impact the typing experience for some users. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable, as it lacks a specified bottom out force. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a firmer bottom out force. Overall, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches should be considered based on individual preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key attached to either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent experience in terms of key travel regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 offers a unique and chirpy high-pitched clack, distinguishing itself from other linear switches. This gives typists a lively and distinct sound profile that can be quite enjoyable. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is uncertain how it compares in terms of acoustics. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides users with a mild typing experience that falls within a safe and gentle range, making it approachable to a wide range of users. The smooth push feel of the CJ adds to the overall typing experience, creating a satisfying sensation when typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unknown, so it is unclear how it measures up in terms of typing feedback and responsiveness.
Considering the information available, it is evident that the Gateron CJ linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and mild typing feel, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch remain unknown, so it is difficult to provide a direct comparison between the two switches. Ultimately, if you enjoy a high-pitched chirpy sound and a smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch may be the right choice for you. If you are looking for a clicky switch, further research or hands-on experience may be necessary to determine if the Outemu Blue clicky switch meets your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the factors that are important to you. If you are looking for a unique and smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a chirpy sound profile, the CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with an unknown bottom out force and are drawn to the classic clicky sound without additional descriptors, the Blue switch might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your needs best.
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