Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, we can see some distinct differences. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is known for its silence, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Thocky', while the Silent Yellow does not fall into any specific categories. Each switch offers its own set of benefits, but to truly determine which one is best suited for your needs, it's essential to delve deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Silent Yellow, we see a clear difference in their top housing materials. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a thinner, higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the INK blend top housing of the CJ may appeal to those seeking a slightly softer sound compared to the more pronounced sound from the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a fuller and rounder sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, with the CJ offering a more subdued typing experience while the Silent Yellow provides a fuller and richer sound.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and feel. While the CJ and the Silent Yellow may differ in their housing materials, each contributes distinct qualities to the typing experience. The top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether opting for the CJ with its unique INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing or the Silent Yellow with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles to cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the CJ has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Similarly, the CJ also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams in contrast to the Silent Yellow's heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the CJ switch offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience, which could be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch provides a more substantial and firmer typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This ensures a similar typing experience in terms of the distance traveled by the switch, allowing for consistent feedback and performance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comparable travel distance, providing users with a reliable and comfortable typing experience.
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 Yellow 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 slightly higher-pitched clacks, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have a specific sound description available. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch is often described as offering a mild typing experience, with a smooth and gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone appealing to most users. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Silent Yellow switch.
Overall, while the Gateron CJ linear switch showcases a unique chirpy sound and mild typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch lacks specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Gateron CJ may provide a more pronounced and enjoyable typing experience, while the Outemu Silent Yellow might offer a quieter and possibly smoother feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired sound and feel for the keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the CJ switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent linear switch without any distinct sound or feel descriptions, the Silent Yellow switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience, bottom out force, and sound characteristics.
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