CJ
CJs are a unique and enjoyable presentation of what a linear switch can be. When typing on them, we hear higher-pitched clacks and detect an impossibly smooth push feel.
$6.00
$5.35
10 switches/order
FREE Shipping on orders over $49.00 and free returns on all orders.
Orders ship from California and arrive within 2-5 days.
Weight
Light
Heavy
Depth
Shallow
Regular
Technical data
| Switch type | Linear |
| Switch brand | Gateron |
| Manufacturer | Gateron |
| Top housing material | Proprietary INK blend |
| Bottom housing material | POM |
| Mount type | PCB (5-pin) |
| Stem construction | Standard |
| Stem material | POM |
| Spring | Gold-plated |
| Actuation weight | 50g |
| Bottom-out weight | 60g |
| Factory lube status | Not factory lubed |
| Pre-travel distance | 2.00 mm |
| Total travel distance | 4.00 mm |
The technical data of a switch can be hard to understand. Our goal here is to demystify how these specs affect feel and sound. We hope this helps you discover whether or not a switch might be a good fit.
Actuation: 50g
A switch's actuation force, or force required to trigger a keystroke, on the Gateron CJ requires 50g of force. This is lighter than 51% of other switches' actuation force in our selection.
A switch's actuation force is based on the entire switch design.
Bottom-out: 60g
Bottoming out, or pressing all the way down, on this Gateron CJ switch requires 60g of force. With a lighter bottom-out than 55% of switches in our selection, the Gateron CJ is considered mediumweight.
A switch's bottom-out force is dependent solely on its spring weight.
What matters more: Actuation or Bottom-out Force?
If you prefer to bottom-out when you type, bottom-out force is the more relevant measurement. If you do not, then actuation force is more relevant.
Not factory lubed
The Gateron CJ is not factory lubed (also known as a dry switch). This makes it most ideal for enthusiasts who, if desired, seek to lube their own switches for the most customizability, precision, and flexibility with specific lube options. Moreover, the material blend of a given switch may not necessitate additional factory lubing.
Top Housing: Proprietary INK blend
Proprietary INK blend is the Gateron CJ's top housing material. The proprietary INK blend by Gateron is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. This satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as being clacky.
Bottom Housing: POM
POM is the Gateron CJ's bottom housing material. POM housings create an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. This sound profile is on the deeper side and it is relatively more muted.
A note on housings
The Gateron CJ uses different materials in its top and bottom housings. As such, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the bottom and the top of the switch.
When you press down on this switch you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing: the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when you let go of a key.
Mount type: PCB (5-pin)
The Gateron CJ is a PCB (5-pin) mount switch. PCB-mount, or 5-pin, switches feature 2 extra alignment pins when compared to their 3-pin counterparts. This ensures alignment (i.e. switch won't rotate and will stay in place) if your keyboard does not feature a plate or if you choose not to use one. If your keyboard's PCB does not have holes for these alignment pins, you will need to trim them off before installing them.
Stem construction: Standard
The cross-shaped stem construction is the most standard as well as the most classic, as it is derived from the original Cherry switches.
Descriptors
A thocky keyboard switch typically produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
Low-pitched switches typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
A mild mechanical keyboard switch offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With these switches, the sound and feel will be approachable to most, as its qualities all stand in a safe, middle-ground zone.
A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes the switch suitable for most intents and purposes: whether or not you are a beginner or advanced, or if you are planning to use these at home or work.
A chirpy switch has a little squeak to them. This unique acoustic signature sets these switches apart from the rest.
Sound test
Try Gateron CJ switches before buying them
Pick 10 switches and we'll send them your way to try at home for 5 days.
How it works
First, pick 10 switches you want to try. Then, we'll send you those 10 switches to try at home for 5 days. You'll get to experience the switches and see how they feel. We'll also include a guide to help you pick your favorite switch and a preprinted return shipping label.
What comes in my try at-home box?
The 10 switches you choose will be installed on switch tester bases so you can type on them as you would on a normal keyboard. Your try at-home kit comes with a preprinted return shipping label.
How much does this try-before-you-buy program cost?
At just $15—shipping included—the try at-home program is the most cost-effective way to try switches before buying them. At less than half the cost of switch testers and with more than triple the variety to choose from, you can try before you buy without breaking the bank so you can be sure you're getting the right switch for your needs.
How do I buy the switches I want?
Send back the switches in your box using your prepaid label and purchase your favorite (or favorites)!
Everything that's included
First, try switches at home with shipping included both ways. After purchasing the switches you love most, know your switches come with a 30-day, hassle-free return or exchange policy. If you don't love your switches, we'll take them back—no questions asked.
