Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

Overview

When comparing the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, to the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers a distinct typing experience. The CJ is renowned for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, emitting higher-pitched clacks and boasting an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', while the Crystal Brown falls into a different category. If you're looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience, the CJ might be the right choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and overall typing experience. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, in contrast to the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing which results in a fuller and rounder sound. Overall, the CJ switch offers a more pointed sound profile, while the Crystal Brown switch provides a clearer and resonant typing experience.

Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer unique benefits to the user. The use of polycarbonate in the Crystal Brown's top housing allows for a more aesthetically pleasing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the CJ switch creates a distinct and satisfying sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. While the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown may absorb more sound, the CJ's POM bottom housing provides a deeper and more unique typing sound.

In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities are most important to the user. Both switches offer a variety of sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound from the CJ switch or a sharper and crisper sound from the Crystal Brown switch, each option provides a unique typing experience that can enhance your overall satisfaction with your keyboard setup.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the CJ requires a slightly heavier touch with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Crystal Brown requires a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, offering a balance between typing comfort and feedback. The CJ provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and travel distance. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them equally suitable options for users looking for a consistent typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a unique typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. When it comes to feel, the CJ is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. As for the Crystal Brown, information regarding its feel is unavailable. Overall, if one enjoys a linear switch with a chirpy sound and mild feel, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice. If tactile switches are preferred but the sound and feel of the Crystal Brown are uncertain, exploring further information or trying out a sample would be beneficial in making a decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 60 grams and enjoy a unique higher-pitched sound with a smooth push feel, then the CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams and are looking for a tactile experience without a specific sound profile preference, then the Crystal Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

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Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more