Gateron CJ vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Kailh Sage present two distinct options for users seeking a unique typing experience. The CJ, a linear switch, stands out for its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', it offers a truly enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. On the other hand, the Sage, a clicky switch, delivers a distinct typing experience with a weight that is notably heavier and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy', it offers a satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches have their own merits and drawbacks, making it important to dive deeper into their characteristics to determine the best fit for individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Kailh Sage have contrasting housing materials that significantly affect their sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound. In contrast, the Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched sound, the CJ's INK blend offers a more balanced and less sharp tone compared to the Sage's polycarbonate. Additionally, the Sage's translucent polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, which makes it a desirable option for those seeking visually appealing switches.
The housing materials for the bottom housing of the CJ and the Sage also show noticeable differences. The CJ utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This unique sound profile adds to the overall experience of typing on the CJ switches. Conversely, the Sage features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon's softness, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the Sage's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, which some individuals may prefer for a more tactile typing experience.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials becomes evident. The bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Therefore, the material used for the bottom housing, such as the POM in the CJ or the nylon in the Sage, will greatly affect how the switch feels during typing. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it is the INK blend in the CJ or the polycarbonate in the Sage, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Although their housing materials differ, both the CJ and the Sage offer distinct and enjoyable typing experiences with their unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Regarding weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for longer durations, making it ideal for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. Those who seek a more substantial typing experience might opt for a heavier actuation force. In this case, the Gateron CJ would offer a lighter typing experience compared to the Kailh Sage, which requires a slightly stronger push for keystrokes. However, both switches fall within the same medium to medium-heavy range, providing a similar typing experience regarding bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The CJ's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the realm of traditional distances, providing a balanced feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Sage's 3.6mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a popular choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Sage would be the better option. However, for individuals who prefer a deeper feeling when pressing a key, the CJ's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on the CJ switch, users can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. The sound profile of the CJ switch can be described as chirpy, with a little squeak that sets it apart from other switches. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. In terms of feel, the CJ switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that most users will find comfortable.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is best known for offering a distinct clicky typing experience. Typing on the Sage switch provides a refreshingly sharp and crunchy clickiness, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The weight of the Sage switch is described as quite heavy, giving it a firm and substantial feel. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer different subjective qualities. The CJ switch provides a unique and enjoyable linear typing experience, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience, with a heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Both switches have their own characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences. It is recommended to try out different switches and consider factors such as sound and feel to find the most suitable option.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, the bottom out force of the CJ switch is 60 grams, making it medium in terms of weight, while the Sage switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. If you prefer a lighter switch, the CJ may be a better choice for you, while if you prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Sage would be more suitable.
In terms of sound, the CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. If you enjoy a crisp and crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves, the Sage switch would be the way to go.
Furthermore, in terms of feel, the CJ switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the contrary, the Sage switch offers an invigorating and immersive typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. If you prefer a switch with a strong and crisp tactile bump, the Sage switch would be more suitable for you.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch will depend on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel. It's important to consider what type of typing experience you enjoy and what characteristics are most important to you. Happy typing!
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