Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CJ and Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its remarkably smooth keystrokes combined with a unique, high-pitched clack that provides an engaging auditory experience. Its classification as a linear switch means that users can enjoy a seamless push feel without tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who value speed and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness caters to those who prefer a tactile sensation with subtle to moderate feedback on each keypress. The balanced sound profile enhances its tactile characteristics, making it a satisfying option for typists who enjoy a little more engagement with their switches. While both switches have their unique appeals—one favoring smoothness and speed, the other emphasizing tactile feedback—it's essential to consider how these differences align with your personal 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Weightlessness switches, a distinct divergence can be observed in their top housing compositions. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend that results in a sound profile characterized as pointed and relatively high-pitched, producing a clacky auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a nylon top housing, which is a classic switch material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a muted, rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Gateron CJ is more suited for users who prefer a higher-pitched sound, whereas the Weightlessness caters to those looking for a deeper tonal quality.
The bottom housings of the two switches further amplify the differences in their audio characteristics. The CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing that contributes to a more muted sound profile, creating a unique and pleasing auditory experience that leans slightly toward the deeper end. Conversely, both the Gateron Weightlessness and CJ have nylon bottom housings but share a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer plastic in the Weightlessness minimizes sound reflections compared to harder materials, which positions the nylon bottom housing to offer a rounder and fuller resonance. As such, while the Gateron CJ’s bottom housing may lead to a more unique sound, the Weightlessness leverages the traditional acoustic properties of nylon to achieve its desirable sound profile.
Ultimately, the interplay between these housing materials directly influences the overall typing experience and sound production of each switch. With the CJ, the distinct qualities of the INK blend and POM create a heightened and clackier feel, especially when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Weightlessness utilizes the soft characteristics of nylon in both its top and bottom housings, promoting a more cohesive and rounded auditory profile when typing and bottoming out. Users may find that despite their different compositions, the way each switch embodies sound and feedback can lead to uniformly pleasing typing results for both options, albeit with unique auditory fingerprints reflective of their respective materials.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that both switches require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This similarity allows for a comparable typing experience when it comes to initiating a key press, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ; the CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating it requires more force to fully depress the key compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Weightlessness switch. As a result, the CJ switch can be considered the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, while the Weightlessness switch may feel lighter at bottoming out because its force is unspecified. This aspect may influence a user’s decision based on their preference for either a more substantial tactile experience or a lighter feel during long periods of use.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the CJ switch offers a longer travel distance, which can provide a more traditional and satisfying depth when typing, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation. Consequently, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke for a more robust feel, the Gateron CJ would be the preferable choice. However, if you favor a more swift response in your key presses, the Weightlessness would be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth versus speed in keypress responses.
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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch in terms of sound, the CJ presents a unique acoustic signature with its higher-pitched clacks, making it stand out in a lineup of linear switches. This chirpy characteristic offers a distinct sound that can be described as both lively and engaging. Its sound profile is further diversified by low-pitched and thocky descriptors, suggesting it can produce varying tones depending on how they are used in conjunction with different boards and keycaps. On the other hand, the Weightlessness switch has a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile feedback but lacks specific descriptors in the provided information, making it difficult to assess how it compares directly in terms of auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the CJ switch provides a smooth push feel, described as mild. This gentle typing experience ensures that users of all skill levels can approach it comfortably, making it an excellent option for both casual and more experienced typists. Conversely, the Weightlessness switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feel, although specific characteristics regarding its overall tactile feedback are not detailed. Thus, while the CJ offers a more pronounced smoothness, the Weightlessness presents a tactile resistance that is likely to appeal to those who enjoy a bit of feedback without overwhelming sharpness.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CJ linear and Weightlessness tactile switches present unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. The CJ excels with its chirpy sound and impossibly smooth feel, making it a delightful choice for those who seek a lively typing experience. The Weightlessness, while unspecified in sound descriptors, offers a subtler tactile feedback that might attract lovers of moderate resistance. Depending on personal priorities, such as audio stimulation versus tactile engagement, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit in distinct manners.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you gravitate towards a smooth and enjoyable linear experience, the CJ switches would be a fantastic fit. Their 60-gram bottom-out force creates a medium resistance that can be satisfying for longer typing sessions, while the chirpy and low-pitched sound adds a playful yet balanced auditory character that many users find appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback during your typing, the Weightlessness switches might be your go-to. Their subtle to moderate tactile feel provides an engaging typing experience without overwhelming sensations, making them suitable for users who want a hint of feedback without the distraction of louder acoustic profiles. In essence, lean towards the Gateron CJ for a smooth, chirpy typing experience and choose the Weightlessness if you appreciate a balanced tactile sensation. Your comfort and enjoyment should guide your decision, so take these characteristics into account as you make your final choice.
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