Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and benefits worth considering. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can offer, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean boasts a quiet typing experience with its silent operation. While the CJ is characterized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Silent Ocean does not fall under any specific categories. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is clear that the CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which results in a thin and higher-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a clear and resonant sound, the CJ's top housing may provide a slightly softer sound compared to the more defined sound of the Silent Ocean.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique quality to the switch's overall sound. In contrast, the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more rounded and dull compared to the CJ's POM housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a richer bottom-out sound compared to the CJ's more muted bottom housing.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Ocean plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the CJ's combination of POM and INK blend results in a satisfying and relatively softer sound, the Silent Ocean's use of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharper and fuller sound with more defined characteristics. Whether a switch utilizes POM or polycarbonate for its top housing, and nylon or similar material for its bottom housing, each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience, impacting the sound and feel of the switch in different ways.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation force, with the CJ requiring 50 grams and the Silent Ocean requiring 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ is lighter at 60 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 65 grams, making the Silent Ocean slightly heavier. Those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Silent Ocean for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, the CJ may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same amount of travel distance between the top and bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth actuation experience for users, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a linear typing feel. Thus, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, you can expect to get similar results 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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched clacks, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown. If sound is an important factor for you, the CJ switch would offer a more distinctive and potentially satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. The Outemu Silent Ocean switch's feel is not specified. If a softer and more approachable typing experience is what you're looking for, the CJ switch might be the better choice based on the available information.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CJ linear switch boasts a unique and chirpy sound with a mild and gentle typing feel, the information on the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is not specified for sound or feel. If you are looking for a switch with a distinctive sound profile, smooth push feel, and a moderate typing experience, the Gateron CJ could be a solid option. However, without detailed information on the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, your choice will also depend on personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should base your decision on your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, along with a unique high-pitched sound and smooth typing feel, then the Gateron CJ switch would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a quieter switch with no specific sound profile mentioned, then the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound output.
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