Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Maple Leaf

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Maple Leaf are significant and can greatly affect your typing experience. The Gateron CJ, a linear switch, boasts a unique and enjoyable typing presentation characterized by its higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a seamless and noise-friendly typing experience. Its neutral and mild tonal qualities provide a balanced sound without being overly harsh or distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf, while lacking specific accolades, is positioned as a tactile switch, offering a pronounced bump that can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This can be particularly appealing for users who appreciate a more engaged and responsive feel during their typing. Each switch has its own merits depending on personal preference: whether you lean towards the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile feedback of a tactile one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, one can identify both similarities and notable differences that influence their acoustic profiles. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is designed to create a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile that reflects its unique material composition. This sound can be characterized as pointed and relatively high-pitched without being overly sharp. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing is more traditional, yielding a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon’s properties, which absorb more sound compared to the harder plastics used in the CJ's design. As a result, the differing top housing materials lead to distinct sound experiences, with the CJ offering a more lively audio profile and the Maple Leaf providing a softer, more muted auditory feel.

On the bottom housing front, the Gateron CJ employs a POM construction that is celebrated for producing a uniquely pleasing and deeper sound, which is also relatively muted. This compositional choice suggests that the bottom-out experience when using the CJ would be more subdued, contributing to a less pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf opts for a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the material used in its top housing. This choice results in a similar deeper and fuller sound signature, enhancing the overall acoustic experience in a cohesive manner. Thus, while the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, both aim to produce a fuller sound profile; however, the CJ’s POM might provide a slightly different tactile response in terms of how it interacts with the top housing on actuation.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and Outemu Maple Leaf switches directly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The CJ, with its combination of INK blend top and POM bottom, is likely to create a switch experience with more pronounced clackiness when releasing the key, while the Maple Leaf's consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom housings results in a more unified, deeper sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches can yield satisfying results depending on user preference: those who enjoy a sharper and more pronounced typing sound may gravitate towards the Gateron CJ, while those who prefer a rounder, more muted sound may find the Outemu Maple Leaf more appealing.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that feels relatively light and comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Maple Leaf requires more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the CJ, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer push and a more pronounced typing experience. Therefore, while both switches fall within the medium range, the Gateron CJ is the lighter option, ideal for users who prioritize longer typing comfort, whereas the Outemu Maple Leaf offers a heavier feel for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that the CJ provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes, often favored by gamers for their rapid activation. Therefore, individuals who enjoy a hearty depth in their key presses might lean toward the Gateron CJ, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their gaming or typing might opt for the Outemu Maple Leaf.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a distinctive acoustic character that sets it apart. Users will find that it produces a chirpy, slightly squeaky sound combined with low-pitched tones. This switch's sound profile is not only interesting but also offers a neutral balance that caters well to a wide range of typing environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The presence of both high-pitched clacks and deeper thocky tones contributes to a rich auditory experience. In contrast, there is no specific sound characterization available for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, leaving its acoustic qualities largely unknown.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ switch provides a mild typing experience. Its smooth push feel is approachable for both novices and seasoned typists, assuring comfort during extended use. This gentleness makes it a versatile choice, suitable for various types of typing, as it maintains a balanced experience without overwhelming feedback. Conversely, no tactile feel descriptions or characteristics are available for the Maple Leaf switch, which limits any direct comparison in this area.

In summary, the Gateron CJ linear switch presents a unique combination of sound and feel, characterized by its chirpy and neutral auditory profile, as well as a smooth, mild typing experience. While the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks specific acoustic and tactile details, newcomers should expect a different experience when considering the CJ. Overall, while certain specific qualities about the switches may be unknown, the CJ clearly stands out in both sound and feel, making it a compelling choice for those exploring mechanical switches for the first time.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch should align with your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a smooth and almost effortless typing experience, with a pleasant chirpy sound and a engageable actuation feel, then the Gateron CJ is the ideal option for you. Its moderate bottom-out force of 60 grams makes it comfortable for both long typing sessions and casual gaming, while its unique acoustics can add character to your setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial tactile response with a bit more resistance as you type, the Outemu Maple Leaf would serve you well, especially given its slightly heavier force of 65 grams. This switch is suitable for users who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke and may find that it enhances their typing accuracy. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, so consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the smooth and chirpy qualities of the CJ or the more pronounced tactile feedback from the Maple Leaf. Your comfort and enjoyment while typing should be your guiding factors in making this decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Maple Leaf Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more