Gateron CJ vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, there are distinct features that set them apart. The CJ offers a unique and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, while the Thunder Shadow provides a medium-weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump. The CJ is praised for its 'Chirpy' and 'Thocky' characteristics, while the Thunder Shadow is described as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches both play a vital role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials provide a clear and resonant sound profile, the CJ's INK blend leans towards a slightly softer and less sharp sound compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique flair to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in material, both the POM and nylon bottom housings contribute to creating a more immersive typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
While the Gateron CJ and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches may differ in their choice of housing materials, they both aim to enhance the overall feel and sound of the typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing allows for a more dynamic range of sound profiles, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the CJ's INK blend or the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles tailored to their preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the CJ is lighter in both aspects. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is heavier than the CJ's bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall in the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Thunder Shadow leans towards the heavier side when it comes to bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ may be the better option, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Thunder Shadow provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Thunder Shadow for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the CJ. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the CJ offering a slightly longer travel distance than the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and 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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched clacks, setting it apart with a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, complementing its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the CJ providing a chirpy and lively sound, while the Thunder Shadow offers a more subtle and neutral sound signature. Depending on individual preference, users can choose between the distinctive sound profiles of the CJ or the more balanced sound of the Thunder Shadow.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized by its impossibly smooth push feel, offering a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. While the CJ switch offers a gentler typing experience, the Thunder Shadow switch delivers a more dynamic and immersive feel, catering to users who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a chirpy and smooth typing experience with high-pitched clacks, while the Thunder Shadow switch delivers a balanced sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the CJ offering a unique sound profile and mild typing experience, and the Thunder Shadow providing a more tactile and immersive typing feel. Users can choose between the two switches based on their preference for sound and typing experience, knowing that each switch offers a different but enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making a decision between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and are looking for a unique and smooth linear typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom-out force and want a tactile switch with a pronounced bump, balanced feel, and neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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