Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Purple offer two distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The CJ is praised for its unique presentation of a linear switch, providing higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that offers a different tactile feedback experience compared to the CJ. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', the Purple switch does not come with specific categorizations. Depending on your preference for linear versus tactile switches, you may choose the CJ for its smoothness and unique sound, or the Outemu Purple for its tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The Gateron CJ and Outemu Purple switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. In contrast, the CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the Purple's nylon bottom housing, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron CJ and Outemu Purple switches differ, both materials bring unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The POM bottom housing of the CJ contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Purple creates a fuller and rounder sound. The impact of each housing material is felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of similarities, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles due to their respective housing materials. The CJ's POM bottom housing and INK blend top housing work together to create a pleasing sound, while the Purple's nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing offer their own distinctive sound characteristics. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Outemu Purple, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with varying sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CJ requires 60 grams while the Outemu Purple's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Gateron CJ slightly heavier in terms of the force needed to fully press down the key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Purple for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Gateron CJ for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch is the same as the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar feel in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable for users who prefer a consistent typing experience. Though the travel distance is the same for both switches, the tactile feedback provided by the Outemu Purple switch will differ from the smooth linear feel of the Gateron CJ switch. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch based on personal preference.
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 Purple 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and higher-pitched sound, which sets it apart from other linear switches. When typing on the CJ, users enjoy a smooth and satisfying push feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have any specific sound or feel descriptions available. This lack of information suggests that the Purple switch may offer a more standard typing experience without any unique sound or feel characteristics.
Considering the available information, it can be inferred that the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its chirpy sound and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch may offer a standard typing experience without any standout sound or feel qualities. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive sound and feel, the CJ may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral typing experience, the Purple switch could still provide satisfactory results. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard you use and the keycaps installed.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a unique and smooth linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the CJ switches would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience and do not mind the lack of specific information on bottom out force, the Outemu Purple switches might be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as sound profile, feel, and typing comfort to make an informed decision on which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you as you type.
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