Gateron CJ vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and TTC Yunhai both present appealing options for those who enjoy linear switches, yet they cater to different preferences. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its distinctive auditory experience, characterized by higher-pitched clacks and a remarkably smooth keystroke, offering a typing sensation that can be described as chirpy and thocky. This makes the CJ a fantastic choice for users who appreciate a more vibrant sound while typing and desire an enjoyable tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches are known for their deep, rounded sound profile and an incredibly light actuation force, making them an excellent option for typists looking for a gentle and effortless keystroke experience. Overall, while the CJ excites with its unique acoustic signature and smoothness, the Yunhai prioritizes ease and comfort in typing. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron CJ and TTC Yunhai switches, one noteworthy difference lies in their top housing materials. Gateron employs a proprietary INK blend for the CJ's top housing, which produces a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that many users describe as 'clacky.' This sound characteristic can create an engaging typing experience, especially for those who appreciate the auditory feedback of their switches. In contrast, the Yunhai uses nylon as its top housing material, typically associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Given that nylon has softer acoustic properties, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller, rounder audio experience. Consequently, switching between these two types will yield different sound profiles, with the CJ producing a more pronounced treble and the Yunhai focusing on a richer bass resonance.
When examining the bottom housing materials, both switches again diverge in their choices. Gateron opts for POM for the CJ’s bottom housing, which is known for creating a uniquely pleasing yet muted sound, contributing to a deeper sound profile. This makes for a softer bottom-out feel compared to tougher materials, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai also employs nylon for its bottom housing, which shares the same softer qualities, yielding a deeper, fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. This similarity means that both switches, while different in top housing materials, can offer comparable experiences due to the softness and sound absorption inherent in nylon.
When considering the impact of combined housing materials on sound and feel, the placements of each material play a crucial role. The CJ switch with its POM bottom and INK blend top will have a sharper auditory impact during key release, while the muted qualities of the POM will define the bottoming out experience. Meanwhile, the Yunhai's consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom housing allows it to deliver a balanced sound profile that remains deep and rounded throughout the entire actuation. Thus, while the two switches diverge in materials, the distinct characteristics of each housing contribute significantly to their overall performance, creating varied experiences for typists based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium weight switch. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer less resistance while typing. This lighter touch can be particularly beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions, where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the heftier Gateron CJ switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel and feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches serve the purpose of facilitating keystrokes, their differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to varying preferences for typing experience and user comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the CJ switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yunhai switch has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that users looking for a more traditional and deeper keystroke may prefer the Gateron CJ, offering that reassuring depth and heft in each press. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai's shorter travel distance caters to preferences for quicker response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking that edge in performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on individual preferences for either a more substantial feeling with the CJ or a snappier typing experience with the Yunhai.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switch offers a uniquely characterized auditory experience that blends higher-pitched clacks with an overall mild acoustic signature. Users can expect a chirpy quality paired with a low-pitched tonal presence that adds depth to each keystroke. This distinct mixture of sounds, which can be likened to subtle squeaks and satisfying thocks, creates a distinctive typing atmosphere that stands out while remaining accessible for various environments. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch's sound profile is less defined, but it is known to produce a deep, rounded sound that enhances the overall typing experience. The presence of lower frequencies from the Yunhai could deliver a contrasting auditory backdrop, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the CJ switch is praised for its smooth and mild characteristics that promote an effortless typing experience. This gentleness is appealing to both novice and seasoned typists, as it provides a safe middle ground between more tactile and harder-to-press switches. The sensation of the CJ switch is described as incredibly smooth, making each keypress feel fluid and comfortable over extended typing sessions. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the TTC Yunhai remain unspecified. However, the Yunhai's incredibly light actuation force suggests an ease that would likely be appreciated by typists who prefer a gentle touch while typing.
In summary, the Gateron CJ and TTC Yunhai switches present distinctive auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The CJ is highlighted for its chirpy and mild sound, combined with an incredibly smooth feel, making it an attractive option for a variety of users. While the Yunhai is associated with a deep and rounded sound, its light actuation force hints at a typing experience that may be equally pleasurable, although detailed information on its tactile feedback is not available. Overall, both switches offer pathways to satisfying typing experiences, making them worthwhile considerations for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CJ and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, your choice should primarily depend on your typing style and personal preferences. If you enjoy a bit more resistance and a typing experience enriched with unique sound characteristics—like chirpy and thocky notes—you may gravitate toward the Gateron CJ, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams. This switch offers a satisfying blend of responsiveness and pleasing acoustic feedback, making it suitable for both typing enthusiasts and those who appreciate a robust, enjoyable experience at their keyboard. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with an effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai, which has a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, might be your ideal choice. Its deep, rounded sound profile paired with an incredibly low actuation force makes it excellent for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prefer a more engaging auditory feedback and tactile experience from your switches or a smooth, feather-light touch that allows for fast and easy typing.
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