Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CJ is praised for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a unique linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe stands out for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, combined with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation. While the CJ is categorized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, thocky, the Lunar Probe's characteristics are yet to be defined. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different typing styles and preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. However, both materials offer a translucent aesthetic for RGB lighting, with the CJ's INK blend providing a satisfying thin sound while the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate delivers a clear and resonant profile.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the CJ utilizes POM to create a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique dimension to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing offers a classic switch material that produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The choice between POM and nylon ultimately impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with POM providing a more impactful bottom-out experience while nylon creates a duller and rounder sound profile.
While the CJ and the Lunar Probe feature different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the balance between the two materials in creating a unique typing experience. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we see some differences that may impact the typing experience. The Gateron CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental key presses. Additionally, the CJ has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a firmer keypress may lean towards the Gateron CJ, while those looking for a lighter touch may find the Gateron Lunar Probe more suitable. Overall, the CJ offers a medium actuation and bottom out force, while the Lunar Probe provides a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. Both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel distance for typing and gaming, but the CJ might feel slightly more substantial when pressed. Players looking for a quicker response time may prefer the Lunar Probe with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the CJ. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 provides a unique and chirpy auditory experience, standing out with its higher-pitched clacks that set it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offers a more subtle and neutral sound profile, with a focus on smooth key presses rather than a distinctive sound signature. Depending on the user's preference, the CJ switch may be more appealing for those who enjoy a bit of squeakiness in their typing experience, while the Lunar Probe switch suits those who prefer a quieter and understated typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground in terms of overall feel. With an impossibly smooth push feel, users can expect a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. As for the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, information regarding its specific feel is not provided. However, given its emphasis on stable and consistent keypresses, it can be inferred that the Lunar Probe switch likely offers a reliable and consistent tactile feedback without any extremes in feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch stands out with its chirpy sound and mild typing experience, appealing to those looking for a distinctive auditory feedback and a gentle feel. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch focuses on stable keypresses and a smooth linear sensation, providing a quieter sound profile and likely a consistent typing feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with their respective characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect similar quality and performance from both switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the bottom out force difference where the CJ has 60 grams and the Lunar Probe has 50 grams. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, opt for the CJ switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, go for the Lunar Probe switch. Additionally, if you enjoy a unique and higher-pitched sound with smooth keypresses, the CJ switch is the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer stable and consistent keypresses with a pre-lubed linear sensation and subtle sound signature, the Lunar Probe switch is your best choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key press force, sound, and feel.
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