Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, both offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The CJ stands out for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue is known for its clicky feedback. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Dustproof Blue falls under a different category. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth key presses, the CJ might be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy the audible feedback and tactile response of a clicky switch, the Dustproof Blue could be more suitable 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
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
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
Both the Gateron CJ and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing has a slightly less sharp, clacky sound. The choice of housing materials greatly influences the overall typing experience and sound produced by these switches.
While the CJ and Dustproof Blue switches differ in their housing materials, they both excel in providing distinct sound profiles and typing feel. The POM bottom housing of the CJ enhances the deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue adds to its fuller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue contributes to its sharp and crisp sound, while the INK blend top housing of the CJ offers a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound with the CJ's POM bottom housing or a sharper and crisper sound with the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Regardless of the specific housing materials used, both switches are crafted to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their own distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial force needed to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CJ has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to initially actuate a key, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch will provide a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. This may be more preferable to users who enjoy a firmer touch and want to avoid bottoming out keys too easily. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the weight of the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a standard travel distance for their typing or gaming needs. Whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Outemu Dustproof Blue, you can expect a consistent and familiar key press experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Dustproof 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 that sets it apart from other switches. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, described as mild and offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of the typing experience they provide.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CJ linear switch is praised for its unique chirpy sound and smooth push feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel. Therefore, for someone seeking a switch with a distinctive sound and a mild typing experience, the Gateron CJ would be a suitable choice. However, if the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch are unknown, it may be difficult to determine how it compares to the Gateron CJ in these subjective qualities. Ultimately, it is essential to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to find the best fit for individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it's important to take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique and smooth linear typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch with a specific sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Blue might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel.
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