Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct experiences for users. The CJ is a linear switch that stands out for its unique presentation, providing a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green is a clicky switch with a different tactile feedback profile. While the CJ is described as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Dustproof Green does not have a specific standout characteristic mentioned in the provided information. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Dustproof Green, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Green lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a visually appealing option for those seeking a switch with lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ's POM material creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, contrasting with the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Green. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch, providing users with distinct options based on their preferences for sound and feel.
While the Gateron CJ and Outemu Dustproof Green utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials on sound and feel is distributed accordingly. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences in housing materials, users can expect unique and satisfying sound profiles from each switch, whether they prefer the clacky sound of the CJ's INK blend top housing or the crisper sound of the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the CJ linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The CJ linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Dustproof Green clicky switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the CJ switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Dustproof Green clicky switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the CJ linear switch would be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may find the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the user will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Consequently, whether opting for the CJ linear switch or the Dustproof Green clicky switch, the typing experience in terms of travel distance will yield comparable results. Thus, in this aspect, both switches offer equal travel distances, providing users with consistent tactile feedback and keypress feel.
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 Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and higher-pitched clacks, giving it a unique and distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have any known sound descriptors provided. This suggests that the CJ switch may offer a more engaging and lively auditory experience compared to the Dustproof Green switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its safe middle-ground characteristics. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the CJ switch may offer a smoother and more comfortable typing feel compared to the Dustproof Green switch.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel qualities based on the available information, offering a unique chirpy sound profile and a mild typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, making it difficult to compare directly with the CJ switch. Ultimately, if you are seeking a switch with a higher-pitched sound and a smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a solid choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique and smooth linear typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the CJ switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch with a distinct sound profile, the Dustproof Green switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Make sure to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
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