Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron CJ

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CJ. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. It boasts reduced housing and stem wobble, providing maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight, it offers a substantial but not overly hefty typing experience. Additionally, the Black Lotus features a unique light column that provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable. On the other hand, the CJ is a linear switch that presents a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Users can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel when using the CJ switch. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the CJ switch offers a distinct auditory and tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Gateron CJ Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CJ, it becomes apparent that they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. This housing material provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the CJ utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While both top housing materials offer a premium feel and produce a similar high-pitched sound, they may differ in terms of their specific tone and clackiness.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Black Lotus incorporates a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the contrary, the CJ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. This sound profile tends to be on the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to nylon. While both bottom housing materials provide a satisfying auditory experience, the nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM provides a more muted and unique tone.

In terms of functionality, the impact of the housing materials can be felt differently depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material become more apparent, as it has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material exerts more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Black Lotus and CJ may use different housing materials for their top and bottom, they still offer similar results in terms of providing a premium feel and delivering satisfying sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the CJ's 50 grams. This means that the Black Lotus requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a medium force level which makes them suitable for a variety of users.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Black Lotus again comes out as the heavier option with a force of 63.5 grams, while the CJ has a slightly lighter bottom out force at 60 grams. This indicates that the Black Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience as it requires a bit more force to fully press down the key.

For those who prefer a lighter switch, the CJ may be a better choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is advantageous for users who have extended typing sessions or frequently use their keyboards for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more satisfying typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus. It provides a heavier actuation and bottom out force, which can enhance the tactile feedback and overall feel of typing.

In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CJ linear switches differ slightly, both switches fall into the medium force range. The Black Lotus offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience, while the CJ provides a lighter option for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience of the user.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4mm of travel distance. Therefore, both switches provide a similar tactile experience to the user. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided in the given information. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch is described as chirpy. A chirpy switch has a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from others, with a little squeak to its sound. The Black Lotus switch's sound characteristic remains unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With that said, if you are looking for switches with a higher-pitched clack and distinctive sound, the CJ switches are likely to provide a preferable option, while the Black Lotus switches may offer a different sound experience that cannot be directly compared based on the given information.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron CJ switches share a common descriptor: mild. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience without pronounced characteristics. This implies that both switches provide a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback and resistance. The Black Lotus switches are further described as silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, similar details regarding the tactile feel of the CJ switches are not provided. From the given information, it can be assumed that both switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience, although the precise nuances of the CJ switch's feel remain unknown.

Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Black Lotus and Gateron CJ switches have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and share a common mild feel. The Black Lotus switches feature unparalleled precision, minimal wobble, and in-switch lighting with a removable light column. While the CJ switches are praised for their unique and enjoyable presentation, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It is crucial to acknowledge the impact of other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps on the overall sound and feel of the switches. Therefore, it is recommended to experiment and explore different combinations to achieve the desired experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation weight of 63.5 grams, while the CJ has a slightly lighter 60-gram actuation weight.

The Black Lotus is best known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. It also features a unique light column for in-switch lighting that is fully removable. On the other hand, the CJ offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel.

When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus is not explicitly described. However, the CJ is known for its mild and approachable sound profile. It does not have any distinct descriptors like chirpy, low-pitched, or thocky. This makes the CJ suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.

In terms of feel, the Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. This means that it offers an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CJ, on the other hand, is only described as mild, indicating a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CJ will depend on your preferences. If you prioritize a slightly heavier actuation weight and enjoy a smooth and polished typing feel, the Black Lotus may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation weight and enjoy the unique higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, the CJ may be the switch for you. Consider these factors when making your decision and choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more