Gateron CJ vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CJ is widely appreciated for its unique presentation of a linear switch, offering a smooth push feel accompanied by higher-pitched clacks. It falls under the categories of being chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that prides itself on maximum tactility. Typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. Its categorization includes resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. Both switches offer a delightful typing experience, but with their individual traits, they appeal to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) have several similarities and differences. Both switches feature POM housing materials, which contribute to a pleasing and unique sound profile. However, while the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deeper and more muted sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize POM materials, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more evident when pressing down on a key and experiencing the bottom-out sound and feel. This suggests that the POM bottom housing of both switches contributes significantly to their overall sound characteristics.
On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key. The CJ's INK blend top housing produces a clacky and satisfying thin sound, while the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound upon key release. Therefore, when it comes to the sound profile when letting go of a key, the top housing material becomes a crucial factor in determining the overall auditory experience.
In summary, although both the Gateron CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilize POM housing materials, they exhibit distinct sound profiles due to the differing characteristics of their top housings. While the bottom housing materials provide a deep and muted sound, the top housing materials greatly influence the sound profile when releasing a key. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of overall pleasant and unique sound from the switches, but with variations in pitch, sharpness, and resonance depending on the specific housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, a key difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which fall into the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force for the POM T1 (Sunflower) is unavailable, but it does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron CJ may be the more suitable choice. Its actuation force allows for a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a heavier push feel due to its higher bottom out force. This can provide a more substantial typing experience, satisfying those who prefer a stronger resistance while typing.
It is worth noting that without information on the actuation force of the POM T1 (Sunflower), it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of actuation forces. However, both switches fall within the medium range for bottom out force. This means that regardless of the actuation force of the POM T1, the result of pressing it all the way down (bottoming out) will be similar to that of the Gateron CJ in terms of force required.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for those seeking a lighter typing experience. Meanwhile, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a heavier push feel due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the same, 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 distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 acoustic signature with higher-pitched clacks. This gives it a chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a clean and sharp sound profile with a higher-pitched tone. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. The CJ has a low-pitched and thocky sound, while the POM T1 has a resonant sound that creates an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, where its qualities are not too pronounced. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. This gives it a distinct and crisp feel with each keypress. Additionally, the POM T1 is also described as accented, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also considered snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels alive. Overall, the POM T1 provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force.
Based on the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock POM T1 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ has a chirpy sound with a mild typing experience, while the POM T1 provides a clean and sharp sound with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel. If you are looking for a linear switch with a unique acoustic signature and a gentle typing experience, the CJ is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a clean and sharp sound profile, along with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel, the POM T1 would be a better option. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the final sound and feel will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch that offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, then the Gateron CJ is an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it falls into the medium category. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. It has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a sharp tactility that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
In terms of sound, the CJ switch provides a chirpy and neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched and clean tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. However, if you prefer a more intense feedback, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a sharp and accented tactile bump, giving you a distinct and invigorating typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) depends on your personal preferences. If you value a smooth linear feel with higher-pitched clacks, go for the CJ. If you prioritize high tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. Consider these factors and your own typing preferences when making your decision.
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