Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, to the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, it's easy to see the distinct differences in their characteristics. The CJ stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound with each keystroke. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Blue Jade does not have any specific categories listed. Both switches have their own advantages and disadvantages depending on personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade switches use nylon for their top housing, creating a deep and full sound profile. However, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Blue Jade. On the other hand, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials, both the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles. The CJ's POM bottom housing adds a distinctive deep and muted sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Blue Jade switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile. The top and bottom housing materials of each switch contribute to a unique typing experience, with the CJ offering a mix of thin and high-pitched sounds from its top housing and deep and muted sounds from its bottom housing. Similarly, the Blue Jade provides a fuller sound profile from both its top and bottom nylon housings. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams while the Blue Jade requires 65 grams, making the Blue Jade the heavier option. The CJ provides a medium actuation and bottom out force, offering a balanced typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Blue Jade has a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be the same for both. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, whether choosing the Gateron CJ or the Outemu Blue Jade, users can enjoy a consistent key press experience with a travel distance that remains constant.
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 Jade 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its unique higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, giving users a chirpy and potentially thocky sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the CJ is described as offering a mild typing experience, catering to a wide range of users with its gentle characteristics. As for the Blue Jade, information on its feel is unavailable. Overall, if you enjoy a linear switch with a chirpy and potentially thocky sound profile along with a mild typing experience, the Gateron CJ may be the right choice for you. It is important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps when determining the final sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, you'd want to choose the Gateron CJ. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch with a distinct sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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