Gateron CJ vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Pine are two options worth considering. The CJ is known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Pine is famous for its translucent forest green appearance, medium-heavy weight, and buttery smoothness, making typing effortless. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Pine differ in several aspects. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, offering a satisfying thin and clacky sound. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Pine's translucent top housing is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing effect.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ incorporates POM housings that create a unique and pleasing sound profile with deeper tones, albeit relatively more muted. Meanwhile, the Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Similar to its top housing, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing enhances clarity and resonance. Both switches capitalize on the advantages of polycarbonate's properties, resulting in a distinct sound experience.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be distributed accordingly when pressing and releasing the keys. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both the CJ and the Pine benefit from their respective housing choices, offering unique auditory experiences depending on the user's preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that they share similar levels of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the KTT Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required for activation and bottoming out.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to facilitate extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. In this regard, both the Gateron CJ and KTT Pine switches offer comparable results as they have similar actuation forces. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. Unfortunately, the exact weight of the switches is not provided.
In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ and KTT Pine switches are slightly different, they fall within the same medium range. This makes them suitable for individuals seeking a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier feel depends on the user's personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have similar travel distances of 4 mm each. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 unique and enjoyable experience. It is described as chirpy, meaning it has a little squeak to it, setting it apart from other switches. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The CJ switch also has a low-pitched tone with a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth of bass tones. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, it is essential to consider that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth and gentle typing experience. It is described as mild, offering a more approachable and middle-ground feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Pine switch is built for an effortless typing experience, thanks to its polished and factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a unique and enjoyable sound with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. It offers a chirpy and neutral sound profile, along with a low-pitched tone. Additionally, it provides a gentle and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It provides a buttery and creamy feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience.
While the CJ and Pine switches have some similarities, such as both being low-pitched in sound, they offer different subjective qualities. Therefore, using either switch will result in distinctive experiences. It is recommended to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel.
If you enjoy a higher-pitched clack and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. The CJ switch also has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, along with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the Pine switch is the way to go. It is medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. The Pine switch's polished, factory-lubed finish minimizes friction for smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific sound and feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard switches. Consider trying out both switches if possible to see which one offers the perfect combination for your typing needs.
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