Gateron CJ vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular options that provide distinct typing experiences are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch. The CJ switches are celebrated for their unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on them creates a higher-pitched clack sound, accompanied by an impressively smooth push feel. They are categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Taro switches are known for their cozy typing experience and feature a snappy, medium-level of tactility. When using the Taro switches, users can expect acute and crisp clacks. They are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own merits and appeal, making it important to dive deeper into their characteristics to determine the best switch for individual preferences. However, let's explore the unique qualities and intricacies of these switches further, so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Jwick Taro exhibit notable differences in both sound profile and material composition. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a transparent housing and plan to use RGB lighting, both the CJ and the Taro will provide similar results.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ incorporates POM housings, known for producing an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side, offering a relatively more muted experience. On the other hand, the Taro utilizes nylon bottom housings, a classic choice in switch housing materials. Nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, owing to its soft composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the Taro's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the CJ's POM counterpart.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be POM or nylon, will be more prominent at this stage. Conversely, when a key is released, the sound profile is primarily influenced by the top housing. Thus, the CJ's INK blend top housing and the Taro's polycarbonate top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, several key differences and similarities arise. The CJ switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, which means that it requires a medium level of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Taro switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, both switches share a medium bottom out force, with the CJ switch requiring 60 grams and the Taro switch requiring 67 grams.
Considering weight, individuals have varying preferences. Some users may opt for a lighter actuation force, as it allows for extended typing periods and is suitable for work-related tasks or long gaming sessions. These lighter switches potentially reduce strain and fatigue. However, others may prefer a heavier actuation force that provides a more substantial typing experience, offering a greater push feel. For those seeking such an experience, options with heavier forces are the preferred choice.
In terms of weight distinctions between the two switches, the CJ switch from Gateron is lighter in both actuation force (50 grams) and bottom out force (60 grams) compared to the Taro switch. Although the actuation force of the Taro switch is unknown, its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates that it falls into the medium-heavy range. Therefore, for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience, the CJ switch may be the preferable option, while those desiring a more substantial push feel might gravitate towards the Taro switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the CJ switch is slightly longer than the Taro switch. The CJ switch offers a more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Taro switch provides a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.7 mm. These differences may not be significant to everyone, but they can play a role in the overall typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Taro switch a potentially more suitable choice for them. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press may prefer the CJ switch with its longer travel distance. 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 best described as chirpy. This unique acoustic signature sets these switches apart from others and adds a little squeak to the clacks. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound level that suits most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. Its mild characteristics make it suitable for most users. Conversely, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Jwick Taro switch also has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility, making it feel more mild in comparison to switches with a large bump.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch stands out with its unique chirpy sound and mild feel, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with its snappy, medium-level tactility and neutral sound profile. While they have their distinct qualities, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice for you. With its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, typing on the CJ switches will provide a satisfying and distinctive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches offer a snappy, medium-level of tactility and produce acute and crisp clacks. In terms of sound, the CJ provides a variety of options, including chirpy, low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, while the Taro has a neutral sound profile. When it comes to feel, the CJ offers a mild typing experience, while the Taro provides a buttery and stepped keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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