Gateron CJ vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics. Starting with the Gateron CJ, it is known for its distinct presentation of a linear switch. When typing on the CJ switch, users can enjoy higher-pitched clacks and an exceptionally smooth and satisfying push feel. This switch falls under the categories of 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a different yet equally enjoyable typing experience. Its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design contribute to a buttery smooth sensation while typing. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', these Sea Salt Lemons deliver a delightful representation of what a linear switch can offer. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your personal preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon have distinct differences. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a thin and higher-pitched sound, the CJ's INK blend leans towards a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate used in the Sea Salt Lemon. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting for those interested in visual aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ employs POM (polyoxymethylene), resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. The CJ's POM brings a different depth and muting effect compared to the nylon used in the Sea Salt Lemon.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the switch, the bottom housing has a more pronounced influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the CJ and the Sea Salt Lemon differ in their housing materials, the contrasting qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom, resulting in nuanced differences between the two switches. However, both switches offer similar levels of satisfaction and distinctive sound profiles, making them excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. Firstly, in terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly lighter 45 grams. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon provides a slightly lighter touch when pressing the keys. However, both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly lower 53 grams. Here again, the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly lighter than the CJ in terms of bottoming out. Both switches, however, still provide a relatively similar experience with a medium to medium-light bottom out force.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the preferable choice, as it has a lower actuation and bottom out force. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may become an issue. On the other hand, for those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the CJ switch with its higher actuation and bottom out force may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same 4 mm travel distance. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 offers a unique and enjoyable experience. These switches are described as chirpy, meaning they have a little squeak to them that sets them apart from other switches. They also have a higher-pitched clack sound, adding to their unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches provide a mild typing experience. This means they offer a gentle and approachable feel when typing. With their mild characteristics, the sound and feel of these switches will be comfortable for most users. The CJ switch is known for its impossibly smooth push feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch boasts a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron CJ and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer unique qualities that make them enjoyable for typing enthusiasts. While the CJ switch provides a chirpy sound and a smooth push feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switch delivers a low-pitched sound and a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches have a mild feel and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, it's important to consider other factors such as keyboard compatibility and individual typing preferences when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great choice. It offers higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be a good option. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design provide a lovely and smooth typing experience.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a low-pitched and neutral profile, which is suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the CJ switch also has a chirpy and thocky sound characteristic, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience. They fall into a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring that the sound and feel will be comfortable and enjoyable for most users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch comes down to personal preference. Consider the desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience to make the best choice for your needs.
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