Gateron CJ vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting two mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Wine Red, both offer unique features that appeal to different preferences. The CJ is best known for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, making it a unique and enjoyable linear switch option. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Wine Red switches are characterized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that can enhance typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Wine Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ switch has a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. It is described as clacky and not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Wine Red switch's top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Both housing materials offer unique sound characteristics, with the CJ switch being slightly less sharp and the Wine Red switch possessing a crisper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ switch utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) material. This POM housing contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Wine Red switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This polycarbonate bottom housing also creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Both housing materials offer different sound qualities, with the CJ switch having a deeper tone and the Wine Red switch providing a sharper and crisper sound.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material impact different aspects of the switch's sound profile and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics come into play, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the characteristics of the top housing have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that while the CJ switch may have its own unique sound due to its blend of materials, the Wine Red switch's sharp and crisp sound is consistent throughout both its top and bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the CJ switch is slightly heavier, at 50 grams, compared to the Wine Red switch with an actuation force of 44 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, providing a balanced typing experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the CJ switch requires a force of 60 grams, while the Wine Red switch requires slightly less force at 55 grams, making it medium-light in comparison.
Considering weight in the context of extended typing or gaming sessions, those favoring a lighter feel may opt for the Wine Red switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a more effortless keystroke, enabling longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the CJ switch could be preferred. With its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, typing on the CJ switch provides a firm and satisfying feedback when keystrokes are registered. This heavier force can be appealing for individuals who appreciate a more pronounced tactile response.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces and bottom out forces of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch differ slightly, they both fall within the medium range. Choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter feel for extended typing or a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience, both switches offer viable options to cater to individual needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard, as it affects the overall typing experience. In the case of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance of 4 mm from the top position to the bottom position. Therefore, the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the same, ensuring that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on them, users can expect to hear higher-pitched clacks and experience a remarkably smooth push feel. This creates a distinct and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is beloved for its intoxicating qualities. Typing on these switches provides a pillowy light feeling, accompanied by a deep and rich sound profile. This creates a typing experience that is both comfortable and sonically pleasing.
When it comes to sound, the CJ switch has a chirpy and neutral profile. The chirpy characteristic adds a slight squeak to the sound, setting it apart from other switches. In contrast, the Wine Red switch is characterized as bassy and low-pitched. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches produce a lower frequency range, providing a mellower tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users with its balanced characteristics. Unfortunately, there is no known description available for the feel of the Wine Red switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and KTT Wine Red linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While there may be some similarities, such as both switches being low-pitched, the overall experiences provided by each switch are quite different. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, with the understanding that other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps, can also influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice. It offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, providing a satisfying typing experience. The CJ is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch might be more to your liking. With a medium-light bottom out force, these switches offer a gentle typing experience. The Wine Reds are known for their bassy and low-pitched sound, creating a pleasing audio feedback when using the keyboard.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the KTT Wine Red boils down to personal preference. If you enjoy higher-pitched clacks, a smooth push feel, and a neutral sound profile, the CJ would be a great fit for you. However, if you prefer a pillowy light type feel, deep and rich sound, and a gentle typing experience, the Wine Red would be an excellent option. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider your preferences and needs when making a decision.
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