Gateron CJ vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron CJ and the TTC Silent Brown. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, they have distinct qualities that set them apart. The CJ is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on these switches provides a high-pitched clack sound and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches are praised for their comfortable typing experience, offering a light to medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile that many users appreciate. These general pointers can help you decide which switch aligns better with your preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the TTC Silent Brown provide distinct sound profiles for typing enthusiasts. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as "clacky." This unique sound provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Despite their differences, both switches produce a higher-pitched sound, providing a similar experience for users who prefer a more elevated and characteristic typing sound.
The housing materials of the CJ and the Silent Brown also significantly influence their bottom housings. The CJ utilizes POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. The CJ's POM housing brings a distinct sound that is on the deeper side, adding a unique aspect to the typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Brown incorporates nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to being a relatively softer plastic. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing sound. These distinct sound profiles showcased by the bottom housings offer typists a choice between a more resonant and muted typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the CJ and the Silent Brown, their impact on the typing experience remains consistent. The bottom housing plays a greater role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. This means that the material of the bottom housing will heavily influence the typing experience when users apply pressure to the switch. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound is affected more by the top housing. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, typists can expect a distinctive sound and feel depending on the housing materials used in the top and bottom of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's lighter 45 grams. This means that the CJ switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown takes the lead with a higher force of 63.5 grams, while the CJ has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Silent Brown provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience when fully pressed, the CJ offers a slightly lighter touch when bottoming out.
Considering the weight of the switch is an important factor for many users. Some prefer a lighter actuation force, like the Silent Brown's 45 grams, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces like the CJ's 50 grams. This provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience. However, it is worth mentioning that despite the differences in force, both switches fall into the medium actuation force range, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness when typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch is measured at 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for keyboard switches. The CJ's 4 mm travel distance offers a more standard depth, providing a familiar and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. The reduced travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios. However, it is worth considering that some users may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. Therefore, personal preference plays a pivotal role in selecting the appropriate switch based on 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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks. They have a chirpy and low-pitched sound that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted and quieter sound profile. These switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its impossibly smooth push feel. It offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and uniform typing sensation. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches fall within the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. The CJ switch can be described as having a safe, middle-ground feel, while the Silent Brown switch gives a polished and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The CJ switch has a chirpy sound and a uniquely smooth push feel, while the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery typing sensation. Both switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. If you are looking for a higher-pitched sound and an impossibly smooth feel, the CJ switch would be a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter sound and a smooth, polished typing experience, the Silent Brown switch would be recommended. Keep in mind that the overall sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable and tactile typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown switch is the way to go. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, you'll enjoy a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a light-medium level of resistance. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you're drawn to the unique clacks and smoothness of the CJ, or the comfortable typing experience and muted sound of the Silent Brown, both switches have their own strengths to offer.
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