Gateron CJ vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron CJ and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The CJ is widely recognized for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks and offers an incredibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the CJ switch provides a distinctive and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver by TTC is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. They also feature a reduced travel distance, enabling quick and effortless actuation. Classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Speed Silvers deliver a refined and efficient typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities, allowing you to make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver differ significantly. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, creating a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying thin and clacky sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. However, both materials offer a translucent housing option that allows for RGB lighting, ensuring users obtain similar results in terms of aesthetic appeal and lighting capabilities.
Moving to the bottom housing, the CJ features a POM bottom housing, delivering a distinct and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. This creates a relatively more muted sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These contrasting housing materials bring different qualities to the switch, as the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Gateron CJ and TTC Speed Silver employ different housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and slightly clacky sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Similarly, the CJ's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone. However, if RGB lighting is desired, both switches offer a translucent housing option. Despite these differences, similarities can be found in their overall functionality, as the impact of each housing material is experienced differently when pressing or releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are a few noticeable differences. The Gateron CJ has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the CJ requires a force of 60 grams, whereas the Speed Silver requires 55 grams. Therefore, the Gateron CJ can be considered slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall under the medium range, providing a balance between typing endurance and a more substantial typing experience. If someone is looking for a lighter switch to type for longer periods, the Speed Silver would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals desiring a stronger push feel may prefer the Gateron CJ for a more substantial typing experience. In essence, while there are slight differences in the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches, both offer similar results and cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range, while the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the CJ the longer option. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may find the Speed Silver appealing due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the CJ switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences regarding travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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. It is described as "chirpy", which means it has a slight squeak to it, providing it with a distinct acoustic signature. This makes the CJ stand out from other switches. Additionally, the CJ has a higher-pitched clack sound and a smooth push feel, creating an impossibly smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate sound level, making it suitable for most purposes. However, more specific information about the sound characteristics of the Speed Silver switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CJ and TTC Speed Silver linear switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that the switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users. However, more detailed information about the specific feel of the Speed Silver switch is not provided. Both switches fall in the "safe middle-ground zone," ensuring that the sound and feel will be comfortable for most users. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is described as "polished," indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Comparing the available information, the Gateron CJ and TTC Speed Silver linear switches have some similarities. Both switches have a neutral sound profile which makes them suitable for various purposes. Additionally, both switches provide a mild typing experience, ensuring comfort for most users. However, the CJ offers a unique "chirpy" sound with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, more specific information about the sound and feel of the Speed Silver switch is unavailable. Nevertheless, it is stated to offer a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. It's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switches. Overall, both switches offer their own subjective qualities, and depending on personal preference and desired typing experience, one can choose either switch for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ is the way to go. Typing on CJ switches will give you higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. The CJ is also described as having a chirpy or low-pitched sound profile, offering a distinctive acoustic signature. In terms of feel, the CJ provides a mild typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground zone for most users.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver is the better choice. With a medium-light bottom out force and reduced travel distance, Speed Silvers allow for quick and effortless actuation. They are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the Speed Silver provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the TTC Speed Silver depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize unique sound characteristics and an ultra-smooth push feel, the CJ would be a great fit. However, if you value speed, precision, and a polished typing experience, the Speed Silver would be the optimal choice. Consider your preferences and needs, and choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
