Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is important to note some key differences. The CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. It is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its silent operation. It is categorized as having no specific characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths, with the CJ offering a unique typing experience and the Dustproof Silent Ocean providing silence during use. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for their translucency, making them ideal choices for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar aesthetic results in terms of lighting effects with either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ utilizes POM, which offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. These differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences for each switch, with the CJ providing a quieter typing sound and the Dustproof Silent Ocean offering a more resonant and rounded typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While the CJ emphasizes a unique and pleasing sound with its INK blend and POM materials, the Dustproof Silent Ocean prioritizes a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate and nylon materials. Both switches offer their own set of pros and cons, providing users with a range of options to suit their preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams, making it a bit lighter in terms of initial pressure needed to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier in that aspect. This means that the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall compared to the Gateron CJ. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. The shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the CJ's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice, but if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Gateron CJ may be more suitable.
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 Silent Ocean 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
Both the Gateron CJ and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switches offer unique sound profiles. The CJ switch produces higher-pitched, chirpy sounds that add character to typing sessions, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's sound characteristics are unknown. When it comes to feel, the CJ switch provides a smooth push feel that is described as mild, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. Overall, if you are looking for an enjoyable typing experience with unique sound qualities, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a more unknown and untested experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may also be worth considering. Both switches offer their own qualities and selecting the right one will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, you should choose the CJ if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique, higher-pitched clack sound with an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent switch. Keep in mind that the CJ offers various sound profiles such as chirpy, neutral, low-pitched, and thocky, while information on the sound and feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is not readily available. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your own preferences for typing experience and sound output.