Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Box CJ
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Box CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Box CJ stand out as intriguing options to consider. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and unmatched precision, boasting a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and manageable. In contrast, the Gateron Box CJ combines the characteristics of the CJ lineage with the swift attributes of speed switches, delivering higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. While the Black Lotus offers in-switch lighting with a fully removable light column, the Box CJ comes unlubed, providing a customizable experience for enthusiasts. Each switch has its own unique qualities, making them ideal choices for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Box CJ both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel and distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the Box CJ incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their top housings influencing the sound upon key release.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and Box CJ utilize nylon materials known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a pleasant typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound. The similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on either switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron Box CJ, the qualities each material brings to the switch enhance the overall typing experience. The PC & UPE Blend top housing of the Black Lotus offers a premium feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ delivers a crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Black Lotus or the Box CJ, you can expect a high-quality switch with unique housing materials that contribute to its sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch differ in weight, with the Black Lotus being heavier and the Box CJ being lighter. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, giving it a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus due to its heavier forces, while users looking for a lighter touch may opt for the Box CJ. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Box CJ linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a comparable typing experience in terms of key travel distance, whether they choose the Black Lotus or the Box CJ linear switch. This makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards using these different switches without experiencing a significant difference in the feel of the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Gateron Box 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 Box CJ for $5.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Black Lotus linear switch is known for providing a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is described as producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The sound a switch produces can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. If you prefer a more moderate sound, the Black Lotus would be a suitable choice, while the Box CJ offers a distinctive clacky sound for those seeking a more unique auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is lauded for its silky, buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances smoothness. Meanwhile, the Gateron Box CJ switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground zone, ensuring a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless typing sensation, with the Black Lotus leaning towards a more refined and polished feel, while the Box CJ offers a more neutral and versatile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your preference for the level of smoothness and resistance in typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus stands out for its neutral sound and silky, buttery feel, providing unparalleled smoothness and precision. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ impresses with its clacky sound and mild typing experience, catering to those who seek a swift and gentle typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound characteristics, typing feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches promise a high level of quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a silky smooth feel and a substantial actuation weight, the Durock Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a swift and clacky typing experience, the Gateron Box CJ would be more suitable. Both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch.
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