Gateron CJ vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Two popular linear switches in the market are the Gateron CJ and the TTC Silent Red. 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 Silent Reds are renowned for providing a seamless typing experience without all the noise, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. With a muted sound profile and a smooth, consistent feel from top to bottom, these switches offer maximum comfort. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Red switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound. This thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches generate higher-pitched sounds, the CJ provides a less sharp and more balanced profile compared to the potentially sharper profile of the Silent Red.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ incorporates a POM bottom housing, leading to a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique sound is characterized by a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Silent Red employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a richer and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the CJ's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing enhances the richness and fullness of the sound.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play a role in different aspects of the switch's operation. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the sensation when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. While the CJ and Silent Red differ in their housing materials, their impact on the bottom-out and release sounds will vary accordingly. However, if the top and bottom housings were the same for both switches, similar results in terms of the sound profile would be expected.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Red requires a slightly lighter 45 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, providing a relatively light push feel for comfortable typing.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams, whereas the Silent Red is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that when fully pressed down, the Silent Red switch offers a more substantial typing experience compared to the CJ switch.
Weight plays a crucial role in keyboard preference, with some users prioritizing lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. For these users, the Silent Red switch with its lighter actuation force is a suitable choice, allowing for comfortable and extended periods of use. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger and more substantial push may opt for the CJ switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more satisfying tactile experience.
In summary, while both the Gateron CJ and TTC Silent Red switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, the Silent Red offers a slightly lighter touch. However, the two switches differ in their bottom out force, with the CJ being lighter and the Silent Red being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length, while the Silent Red has a slightly shorter distance of 3.7 mm. For those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Silent Red's shorter travel distance may be preferable, as it allows for quicker response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the CJ. 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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 known for its unique and enjoyable presentation in terms of sound. When typing on CJ switches, users can expect higher-pitched clacks, giving them a chirpy sound signature. This distinguishes CJ switches from other linear switches available in the market. Additionally, users will experience an incredibly smooth push feel, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. The CJ switch can be described as having a slightly squeaky and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a distinct acoustic signature.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is designed for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience. With a muted sound profile, the Silent Red switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it an excellent choice for office or shared living spaces where maintaining a quiet environment is essential. In terms of feel, the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience from top to bottom. It provides a buttery keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch also has a mild feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and TTC Silent Red linear switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CJ switch stands out with its chirpy and higher-pitched sound profile, along with an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch excels in providing a quiet typing experience with a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, ensuring comfort for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether the user prefers a more unique and high-pitched sound with smooth typing (CJ) or a quiet and seamless typing experience (Silent Red). It's worth noting that the overall sound and feel of the switches may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and any additional modifications or lubrication applied.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch will be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the Silent Red switch is the perfect choice, especially for office or shared spaces. The Silent Red provides a muted sound profile and a smooth, consistent feel from top to bottom, ensuring maximum comfort. Ultimately, consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.
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