Gateron CJ vs. Bsun Taichi

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ and the Bsun Taichi both offer unique linear experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its delightful balance of higher-pitched clacks and an impressively smooth typing feel, providing a spirited tactile experience for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. Its characteristics, including being chirpy, neutral, and mildly thocky, make it a great option for users who favor an engaging and lively keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switches stand out with their enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to a thoughtfully designed long-pole stem and extended springs that enhance both smoothness and stability during use. While the Bsun Taichi leans more into a premium feel, prioritized for stability, those who appreciate a more refined typing experience may gravitate towards it. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, appealing to different typing styles and 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

Gateron CJ Linear

Bsun Taichi Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the top housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Bsun Taichi switches, we find notable differences that impact their acoustic characteristics. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which is recognized for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is clacky yet not overly piercing. In contrast, the Taichi employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its sharp and crisp sound. Polycarbonate’s stiffer nature contributes to its clearer resonance, enhancing the audible feedback during typing. While both materials produce higher-pitched sound profiles, the CJ's INK blend emphasizes a unique tonal quality that distinguishes it from the more standard clarity offered by the polycarbonate used in the Taichi.

The bottom housings of these switches also reveal contrasting influences on their audio profiles. The Gateron CJ features a POM bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This softer material absorbs impact and vibrations, which results in a sound that is less pronounced and more pleasant for typists who prefer a deeper tone. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound experience, drawing on its characteristic softness to further absorb sound and produce a rounder resonance. Despite the varying materials, both switches ultimately provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences; the CJ leans toward a warm, rounded sound while the Taichi emphasizes clarity and richness.

In practice, the differing qualities of the top and bottom housings affect the overall typing experience in nuanced ways. The Gateron CJ, with its combination of a high-pitched INK blend top and deep POM bottom, creates a satisfying contrast during keystrokes, allowing for an engaging auditory experience on both the bottom-out and release phases. The Taichi, relying on the crisp polycarbonate top and soft nylon bottom, produces a sound that marries sharpness with richness, appealing to users who enjoy a brighter auditory feedback alongside a full-bodied response. Although the materials differ, both switches offer a broad spectrum of tactile and auditory experiences, ensuring that users can find a satisfying type feel that resonates with their individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The CJ switch requires a force of 50 grams to actuate, while the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This makes the Taichi a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter touch, especially beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming hours. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi is not specified, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in that regard. In contrast, the Gateron CJ has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the switch is fully depressed. Therefore, while the CJ provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, the lighter actuation force of the Taichi may appeal to those who favor speed and comfort over a stronger push feel. Overall, the CJ can be considered the heavier option, while the Taichi is regarded as the lighter switch.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights a key contrast between the two switches: the CJ provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which many users might appreciate for its tactile feedback and sense of depth. In contrast, the Taichi's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those who prefer quicker response times, offering a snappier activation that some might find more appealing for fast-paced gaming. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced key press, the Gateron CJ would be the better choice, while the Bsun Taichi might suit those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack that adds an engaging character to your typing experience. This chirpy quality creates a unique acoustic signature that aims to stand out while still maintaining versatility. Its sound profile is often balanced with a neutral aspect that makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Conversely, the BSUN Taichi switch boasts an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This design allows for a refined auditory experience, although specific descriptors detailing its sound characteristics were not provided. Overall, while both switches aim for a high-pitched sound, the CJ is known for its specific chirpy and neutral qualities, whereas the Taichi offers a more generalized high-pitched auditory signature.

When evaluating feel, the Gateron CJ switch is noted for its exceptionally smooth push feel, coupled with a mild typing experience. This gentleness makes it an approachable choice for newcomers, as it positions itself within a safe, middle-ground realm that avoids extreme traits found in other switches. Notably, the Taichi switch's tactile qualities weren't detailed in available information, leaving an unknown aspect regarding its feel. However, the emphasis on stability and smoothness through its walled stems suggests that it may also provide a satisfying typing sensation, although it remains to be seen how it directly compares to the CJ.

In summary, both the Gateron CJ and BSUN Taichi linear switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The CJ offers a chirpy, neutral auditory experience with a smooth and mild typing sensation, making it a great option for beginners. Meanwhile, while the specific feel of the Taichi remains uncertain, its long-pole design implies a focus on stability and smoothness, paired with an engaging high-pitched sound. Ultimately, either switch can provide excellent results, but your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the distinct sound of the CJ or the intriguing potential of the Taichi.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your choice will depend on the tactile experience and sound profile you prefer. If you are looking for a satisfying blend of smoothness and a unique auditory feedback, the Gateron CJ is likely your best bet. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and chirpy sound will cater to those who enjoy a lively and engaging typing experience, while still being approachable for beginners and versatile enough for work or home use. On the other hand, if you seek a specialized switch that amplifies smoothness and stability, the Bsun Taichi may appeal to you, particularly with its enchanting high-pitched sound profile. While specific force details may be hard to pin down, the long-pole stem and extended springs promise an elevated level of performance for those who prioritize smoothness above all. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences, and don’t hesitate to test both switches to see which resonates more with your tactile and auditory senses.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more