Gateron CJ vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, there are countless options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Gateron CJ, a linear switch, and the Everglide Oreo, a tactile switch. The CJ offers a pleasant and smooth push feel, with higher-pitched clacks that are sure to satisfy any typist. On the other hand, the Oreo provides a delectable treat for your fingertips with its crisp tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. Its medium light tactility strikes the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Everglide Oreo differ in terms of sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. While both materials offer a thin and higher-pitched sound, the slight variations in their profiles can affect the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This unique sound profile adds to the pleasing experience of using the switch. In comparison, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
When using a switch with different materials for the top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be distributed accordingly. While pressing down on the switch, one can feel the impact of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, the choice of housing materials can greatly influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the CJ requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Oreo is slightly lighter at 45 grams. This means that the Oreo provides a slightly lighter touch when typing, which may be preferable for those who prioritize longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. However, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, ensuring a responsive typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ requires 60 grams of force to fully press the switch down, while the Oreo is slightly lighter at 55 grams. This indicates that the CJ offers a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both switches still fall within the medium to medium-light range of bottom out force, suggesting that they are both relatively easy to fully press down.
Considering the weight of the switches, the CJ can be considered slightly heavier due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Oreo. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. However, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oreo would be the more suitable choice.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CJ and the Everglide Oreo provide a satisfying typing experience within the medium to medium-light range of actuation and bottom out forces. It is important to consider personal preferences and use cases when deciding between the two, as the CJ offers a slightly heavier feel, while the Oreo provides a slightly lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on these switches, users can expect to experience higher-pitched clacks, which set them apart from other switches. The key presses on CJ switches are incredibly smooth, providing an impossibly smooth push feel. As for the sound profile, CJ switches can be described as chirpy or low-pitched, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Overall, the CJ linear switch offers a satisfying and distinctive typing experience.
On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a delightful treat for the fingertips. These switches provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top of the keystroke, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The tactile bump is described as accented, meaning it is not overwhelming but still provides a prominent amount of tactility. Users will find that typing on Oreo switches offers a comfortable typing experience, striking a balance between a satisfying keystroke and overall comfort. In terms of sound, the Oreo switches have a subtle and mellow sound profile.
Considering the information provided, the CJ linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities. The CJ switch focuses on a smooth and unique linear experience with higher-pitched clacks and a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Oreo switch provides a tactile experience with a crisp bump and a more subtle sound profile. It ultimately comes down to individual preference and typing style. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but with different qualities. If a user prefers a linear switch with smoothness and higher-pitched clacks, the CJ switch would be an excellent choice. If a user prefers a tactile switch with a responsive bump and a more mellow sound, the Oreo switch would be the preferred option. With either choice, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ switches are a great choice. With their higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, typing on these switches is a delight. They also offer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a crisp and responsive bump, the Everglide Oreo switches are perfect for you. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and strike a balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfortable typing. They also offer a subtle, mellow sound profile. Overall, the Gateron CJ switches are ideal for those seeking a unique linear switch experience, while the Everglide Oreo switches are a great choice for those who prefer a tactile switch with a crisp bump.
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