Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, one immediately notices the distinct characteristics of each. The CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, featuring higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze does not have any standout features listed. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Spring Breeze remains unspecified. Depending on your preference for linear switches with a unique feel or clicky switches with no specific distinctions, you may lean towards one or the other. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, one key difference is in the top housing material. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, giving it a clacky feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze uses a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. While the CJ offers a sharper sound, the Spring Breeze provides a rounder and more muted tone, showcasing the influence of top housing material on the overall sound of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the CJ utilizes a POM housing that generates a unique and deep sound profile, contributing to a more muted overall sound. In contrast, the Spring Breeze employs a nylon bottom housing, which also results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both housing materials have a soft nature that absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the differences in the specifics of each material, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Spring Breeze may use different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the impact of these materials on the sound profile is evident in both switches. The CJ's INK blend top housing produces a sharper sound, while the POM bottom housing contributes to a more muted tone. In comparison, the Spring Breeze's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound across both top and bottom components. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics, as both offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the CJ requiring 60 grams and the Spring Breeze needing 55 grams. The CJ switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force, making it better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Spring Breeze switch makes it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for longer periods without fatigue. Overall, while both switches fall under the medium category for bottom out force, the Gateron CJ is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze, catering to different preferences for typing experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, it can be noted that the travel distance plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. A shorter travel distance like that of the CJ can provide a more responsive and faster typing experience as the key actuates quicker. On the other hand, a longer travel distance like that of the Spring Breeze can offer a more satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
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 Spring Breeze 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 characterized by a chirpy and higher-pitched clack, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, which may indicate a more neutral or standard clicky switch sound profile. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will be influenced by the overall keyboard setup including the case, plate material, keycaps, and typing technique.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for providing an impossibly smooth push feel, creating a mild and gentle typing experience. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users who prefer a softer keypress. Meanwhile, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, leaving its tactile feel up for interpretation. In general, clicky switches are known for their tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its chirpy sound and smooth push feel, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch remains more of a mystery in terms of sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfactory typing experience, but the Gateron CJ may be more appealing to those who value a distinctive sound profile and smooth keystrokes.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should opt for the CJ if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, choose the Spring Breeze if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. However, keep in mind that the Spring Breeze does not have any specific sound or feel descriptors provided, so it may not offer the same level of customization or unique characteristics as the CJ. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall switch performance.
Mentioned in this article
