Gateron CJ vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the Gateron CJ and the Neo Lavender HE offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CJ, known for its unique and enjoyable linear switch presentation, delivers a typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. Its categorization as "Chirpy," "Neutral," and "Thocky" emphasizes its solid acoustic profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy an audible feedback without any tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE stands out with its clean, low sound and compatibility with Wooting keyboards, setting it apart from traditional magnetic switches. While both switches provide excellent smoothness, the CJ appeals to users who appreciate an interactive auditory element, while the Lavender HE is perfect for those seeking a quieter, yet equally responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your personal typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Neo Lavender HE switches, notable differences emerge that affect their respective sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is designed to produce a pointed, high-pitched sound that is often characterized as clacky. This choice of material diverts significantly from the Lavender HE's nylon top housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent properties of nylon, as a softer plastic, dampen sound vibrations, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches may produce appealing sound qualities, the CJ's sharper tones contrast with the Lavender HE's richer, more muted sounds.
The bottom housings of the two switches further illustrate their differences. The Gateron CJ employs a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasant and unique sound profile that leans toward the deeper end of the spectrum while remaining relatively muted. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, mirroring the softer sound characteristics found in its top housing. This consistent use of nylon creates a cohesive auditory profile across both positions, leading to a more unified deeper sound. The impact of each material on the overall sound experience manifests differently; the CJ’s POM bottom enhances the overall sound while the Lavender HE’s nylon absorbs sound, creating a rich, less resonant output.
Despite their differences in materials, both the Gateron CJ and the Neo Lavender HE can yield complementary outcomes in terms of typing experience and sound. While the CJ delivers a more defined and sharp sound, the Lavender HE’s approach produces a softer and fuller auditory environment. If one were to use both switches in the same keyboard setup, they would likely experience a varied tactile and acoustic interplay, with the CJ offering distinct clacking with each keystroke and the Lavender HE providing a cushiony, muted response. Ultimately, the choice between these materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing, with each switch leading to a different yet enjoyable experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct characteristics. The Gateron CJ features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lavender HE is the more suitable choice, allowing for extended typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Conversely, the Gateron CJ provides a stronger push feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial tactile experience while typing or gaming. Ultimately, while both switches deliver different experiences due to their respective weights, the CJ is better suited for users seeking a heavier feel, while the Lavender HE caters to those who prioritize a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the CJ switch has a deeper engagement, providing a more pronounced keypress experience, which some users may find more satisfying for typing and gaming alike. In contrast, the Lavender HE, with its 3.8 mm travel distance, caters to those who prefer a quicker response time, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking rapid key actuation. Ultimately, the CJ switch is the longer option, while the Lavender HE is the shorter one. If a user favors a more immediate feedback from their keys, the Neo Lavender HE could be more suitable; however, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron CJ.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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 presents a distinctive acoustic profile that many enthusiasts find appealing. Its chirpy nature adds a playful quality that sets it apart from other linear switches, while its neutral and low-pitched tones cater to a wide spectrum of users—from beginners to those familiar with mechanical keyboards. The CJ's sound can be likened to a satisfying thock, evoking a deeper resonance as keys are pressed and released; however, the perception of this sound can also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap combination used. On the other hand, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is noted for its clean and low sound, which distinguishes it from other magnetic switches. This lower sound output can make it an attractive option for users seeking a quieter typing experience, but more detailed descriptors of its auditory qualities are not provided.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a smooth and approachable touch. This gentler feedback allows for extended periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it a suitable choice for everyday use. The mild nature ensures that the elements of sound and tactile sensation blend harmoniously, resulting in a comfortable typing environment. In contrast, the feel of the Neo Lavender HE switch remains unspecified, limiting our comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch excels with its unique chirp sound and a mild feel, providing a perfect balance suitable for various settings and users. While the Lavender HE hall effect switch is recognized for its clean and low auditory output, its tactile feedback is not elaborated upon. Each switch has its merits, and the choice between them may ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound character and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use case. If you appreciate a medium bottom out force with a smooth typing experience and a unique auditory profile featuring chirpy and thocky sounds, the CJ is an excellent choice. Its rich, bass-heavy tones and mild feel make it well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of character in their typing. This switch could be ideal for both casual and professional environments where you want a satisfying feedback without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a cleaner sound while using a keyboard that works seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, then the Lavender HE may be the perfect fit. Its low sound profile allows for an unobtrusive typing experience, making it a great option for quieter spaces or if you’re using your keyboard for extended periods and prefer less strain on your fingers. In summary, consider your typing style, noise tolerance, and the settings in which you will be using the keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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