Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer a linear typing experience. The CJ stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Cream Pink does not have any standout characteristics mentioned. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', while the Cream Pink does not fall into any specific categories. If you're looking for a linear switch with a distinct sound and smooth feel, the CJ might be the way to go. 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
2.00 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Cream Pink, we can see that they both use different materials for their top housings. The CJ uses a proprietary INK blend, which gives it a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Cream Pink utilizes nylon for its top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the CJ's top housing provides a sharper and more defined sound compared to the Cream Pink's softer and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we find that the CJ incorporates a POM bottom housing that creates a deep and muted sound profile. This contrasts with the Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic properties. Despite the differences in their materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The CJ's POM bottom housing adds a level of depth to the sound, while the Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing enhances the overall sound quality with its ability to absorb more sound.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Cream Pink play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While the CJ's top housing provides a sharper and clackier sound, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound profile, while the Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing enhances the overall sound quality. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Gateron CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch, while the Outemu Cream Pink has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation force of these switches makes them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This consistency in travel distance allows for a similar typing experience between the two switches. Overall, the travel distance of both the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches is the same, providing users with a consistent and familiar typing feel.
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 Cream Pink 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 having a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile which sets it apart from other switches. This unique acoustic signature provides a satisfying typing experience with smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound profile is currently unknown. When it comes to the feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. As for the Cream Pink switch, the feel is currently unidentified. Overall, if you enjoy a higher-pitched and chirpy sound with a mild typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great choice. If the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch are similar to the CJ, you can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the bottom out force preference that suits your typing style. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the CJ with its 60-gram bottom out force might be the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy a higher-pitched and unique sound profile, the CJ's chirpy and thocky characteristics could be appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch with its 65-gram bottom out force, the Cream Pink could be a good choice. Keep in mind that the Cream Pink's sound and feel profiles are currently not well-defined, so if you prefer a more neutral or adaptable switch, the CJ might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound.
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