Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, to the Gateron Smoothie Silver, also a linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The CJ is known for its unique and enjoyable presentation with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel, while the Smoothie Silver stands out for its short travel distance, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. Depending on your preference, you may choose the CJ for its distinct characteristics or opt for the Smoothie Silver for its lightning-fast actuation. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature POM bottom housings, which create a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This means that when using either of these switches, you can expect a satisfying and quieter typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials. The similarities in the bottom housings between the two switches suggest that they may provide a similar overall typing feel and sound when used in a keyboard.
On the other hand, the key point of differentiation between the Gateron CJ and Gateron Smoothie Silver lies in their top housings. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, resulting in a unique and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a different typing feel that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter and more subdued experience. This difference in top housing materials highlights how keyboard enthusiasts have the ability to customize their typing experience based on their preferences.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gateron CJ and Gateron Smoothie Silver aim to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience for users. While the CJ offers a more distinct clacky sound profile with its INK blend top housing, the Smoothie Silver opts for a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual user is seeking. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience given the premium materials used in both the top and bottom housings of these switches.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Smoothie Silver the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams to fully press the key, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Smoothie Silver, while users that prefer a bit more resistance might lean towards the CJ switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, but either switch will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch have different travel distances, with the CJ having a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm. The CJ's 4 mm provides a more traditional and deeper feel when typing or gaming, while the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm offers a shorter and faster response time. Gamers looking for quick key presses may prefer the Smoothie Silver, while those who enjoy a more substantial press may lean towards the CJ. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences and needs.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 is known for its chirpy and neutral sound profile, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a thocky sound with a deep and satisfying tone. Depending on your preference, the CJ switch may be more suitable for those seeking a higher-pitched and distinctive sound, while the Smoothie Silver switch is ideal for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience with qualities that fall into a safe and middle-ground zone. The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its all-POM construction and short travel distance, providing a feather-light touch for quick actuation. Depending on your typing style and preferences, the CJ switch may be preferred for its mild and approachable feel, while the Smoothie Silver switch offers a lightning-fast actuation for those seeking speed and responsiveness.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch offers a chirpy sound and mild feel, appealing to those looking for a distinctive typing experience, while the Smoothie Silver switch provides a thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation for a different typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the CJ offering a higher-pitched sound and a mild feel, and the Smoothie Silver providing a deeper sound and quick actuation. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and keycaps will help you determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a higher-pitched clack sound profile, and an impossibly smooth push feel, then the Gateron CJ switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer an all-POM switch with a short travel distance, feather-light touch, and a thocky sound profile, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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