Gateron CJ vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Lotus both fall under the category of linear switches. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable characteristics, offering a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is known for its own set of qualities. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Lotus does not have specific categories associated with it. Overall, the CJ may be preferred for its distinct sound and feel, while the Lotus maintains a level of mystery surrounding its characteristics. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Outemu Lotus switches both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing known for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile, while the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Lotus also uses a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
One key distinction between the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Lotus switches lies in their top housings. The CJ's INK blend top housing is praised for its pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a sharper sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing feel and auditory experience of a switch.
Despite the differences in their top and bottom housing materials, the Gateron CJ and the Outemu Lotus switches both aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound profile for typists. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a high-pitched, clacky sound like the CJ or a deeper, fuller sound like the Lotus, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams. The bottom out force of the CJ is also higher at 60 grams, while the Lotus has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the CJ switch requires more force to both trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Lotus switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus switch, as it has both a lighter actuation and bottom out force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the CJ switch may be the better option. Both switches offer different weight options that cater to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Lotus has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prefer faster response times. On the other hand, the CJ provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. In this case, the Lotus is the shorter of the two, while the CJ is the longer. Whether you choose the CJ or the Lotus, you can expect distinct tactile feedback based on their individual travel distances.
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 Outemu Lotus comes in at $3.10 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy, higher-pitched sound profile, providing a unique typing experience with a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics listed. When it comes to feel, the CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the specific feel of the Lotus switch. Overall, based on the available information, it can be said that the Gateron CJ switch will likely provide a more distinct and enjoyable sound profile compared to the Outemu Lotus switch. However, without specific details on the Lotus switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a unique and enjoyable presentation with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, then the Gateron CJ switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, then the Outemu Lotus switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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