Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are two popular options to consider. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, providing a higher-pitched clack and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is known for its distinct clicky feedback. While the CJ offers a 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thunky' typing experience, the Milk Blue does not have a specific category associated with it. If you're looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, the CJ might be the way to go. However, if you prefer a more tactile and clicky feel while typing, the Milk Blue could be the better choice. Nonetheless, 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
N/A
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
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Milk Blue in terms of housing materials, it is evident that the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing. The INK blend provides a satisfying thin and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate material creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials are good choices for those seeking a more distinct sound experience, with the INK blend offering a slightly softer tone and the polycarbonate delivering a clearer resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CJ's POM bottom housing provides a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing. POM is known for creating a unique sound experience that is on the deeper side, while nylon offers a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. While both materials contribute to the overall sound quality of the switch, the POM bottom housing may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the nylon bottom housing may appeal to those who enjoy a fuller and more pronounced sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Milk Blue housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer unique sound profiles thanks to their different housing materials, with the CJ providing a slightly softer and clacky sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Milk Blue. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted typing experience with the CJ's POM bottom housing or a fuller and rounder sound with the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on your sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Milk Blue, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that while the actuation force is the same for both switches, the CJ requires a bit more force to fully press down the key. In terms of weight, the CJ is on the heavier side, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's lighter bottom out force may be preferred by those looking for a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, they offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Both switches provide tactile feedback while typing, with the CJ offering a linear feel and the Milk Blue providing a clicky sound upon actuation. Despite their differences in terms of switch type, the travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm for both, ensuring that users will get a comparable experience in terms of key press depth. Ultimately, whether you prefer the linear CJ or the clicky Milk Blue, you can expect a similar travel distance when typing on either switch.
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 Milk 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 chirpy and higher-pitched sound that sets it apart from other linear switches. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Depending on personal preference, the CJ may provide a more unique auditory experience compared to the Milk Blue, which may have a more standard clicky sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentler feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not specified. If consistency in feel is important to you, the CJ may be a more reliable choice due to its known characteristics delivering a safe and middle-ground typing experience.
Taking all the information into account, the Gateron CJ linear switch stands out for its unique chirpy sound and mild typing feel, making it a distinctive choice for those seeking a different linear switch option. While the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have specific descriptors available for sound and feel, it may provide a more traditional clicky experience. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for your typing needs. Both switches are reputable in their own right, so selecting between the two will likely come down to individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a unique and smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinct sound profile, the Outemu Milk Blue could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
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