Gateron CJ vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The CJ is a linear switch that offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience. With its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, it provides a distinct sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. It offers a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. These general differences make both switches appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.
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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both have distinct differences in their housing materials. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It is described as clacky, but not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. While both materials produce a higher-pitched sound, the CJ's INK blend provides a less sharp and more satisfying clack compared to the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the CJ's POM (polyoxymethylene) creates a unique and pleasing sound. This POM material results in a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. Nylon has a sound-absorbing quality, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both switch housing materials contribute to a deeper sound, the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a more unique and muted tone compared to the Viola Tricolor's nylon material.
In summary, the Gateron CJ and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ significantly in their housing materials. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky sound with a pointed and high-pitched profile, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. Furthermore, the CJ's POM bottom housing offers a deep and muted sound, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder tone. However, if you are seeking a higher-pitched sound, both switches can deliver similar results, although with slight variations in sharpness and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The CJ switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is moderate, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch's actuation force is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ switch may be the better option as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Viola Tricolor switch's slightly higher bottom out force may be appealing.
It is important to note that without information on the Viola Tricolor switch's actuation force, we cannot make a direct comparison in terms of how easy it is to trigger a keystroke. However, based on the provided information, the CJ switch can provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, catering to those who prefer a moderate to slightly heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we can see that the CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The CJ's travel distance falls into the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Viola Tricolor offers a shallower travel distance of 3.8 mm. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become more popular in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you value responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor would be a better option for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the CJ, with its longer travel distance, would be the preferable choice to provide a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the intended use of the keyboard.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 and neutral. These switches have a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak, setting them apart from other linear switches. Additionally, their sound profile is moderate, making them suitable for various purposes and users. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle push feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The CJ switches strike a safe middle ground, making them approachable for most users. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers an accented feel. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The Viola Tricolor switches have a medium level of tactility, creating a satisfying feedback without being too subtle. The Viola Tricolor switches offer a snappy and reactive feel, making typing an invigorating and immersive sensation for the user.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switches provide a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, accompanied by a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether you prefer a chirpy and neutral sound with a mild feel or a bassy and low-pitched sound with an accented feel, both switches provide enjoyable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Gateron CJ switch is a great choice. It offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, which can add a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is a good option. It delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile without being overly tactile. It strikes a perfect balance between providing pronounced feedback and not overwhelming the user. Additionally, the Viola Tricolor offers a deeper and richer sound profile with low-pitched tones, which can be appealing for those who prefer bass-heavy and mellow sounds. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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