Gateron CJ vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray are two popular options, both known for their unique characteristics. The CJ is widely recognized for its exceptional linear switch design, offering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. With higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel, it stands out among linear switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is favored by those who prefer a more bouncy typing experience. Its sound profile is clean and clacky, providing a satisfying feedback while typing. Both switches share common qualities such as being categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and thocky, but they differ when it comes to the CJ's chirpy attribute and the Polaris Gray's polished feature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housing. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The INK blend creates a pointed, high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound profile, which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. If you plan to use RGB lighting, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing can be especially beneficial.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ incorporates a POM (polyoxymethylene) material, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM housing of the CJ creates a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Similar to the top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate plays a role in enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for showcasing RGB lighting effects.

Overall, while the CJ and the Polaris Gray have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their housing. The top housing of the CJ and the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray share similar qualities, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. However, different materials for the bottom housing result in varying sound profiles. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the CJ is lighter than the Polaris Gray, with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Polaris Gray's unknown actuation force. This means that the CJ requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the CJ at 60 grams and the Polaris Gray at 67 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CJ switch would be a better choice as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Polaris Gray's heavier bottom out force may be preferred. It is worth noting that even though the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unavailable, the similar medium bottom out force suggests that a similar typing experience to the CJ switch may be achieved. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when pressing down on a key, as they both require the same amount of distance for activation. Therefore, users can expect similar results when using either switch in terms of the distance they need to travel to register a keystroke. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance that allows for smooth and efficient typing or gaming experiences. Overall, the travel distances of the Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches are equal and provide users with a consistent typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch brings a unique and enjoyable presentation. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks, giving them a distinctive acoustic signature. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile. Both switches are described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, these switches offer similar results in terms of pitch and overall sound experience.

In terms of feel, both the CJ and Polaris Gray switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The CJ switch is known for its impossibly smooth push feel, providing a satisfying typing sensation. The Polaris Gray switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy typing experience. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. Again, we can expect similar results in terms of the mild typing experience, although the specific nuances may differ slightly.

Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer their own unique qualities. The CJ switch stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile along with a bouncy typing experience and a polished finish for a sleek typing feel. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and offer a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch could be a great choice. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out both switches and consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience to decide which one suits individual preferences best.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium actuation force that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The CJ switches offer a higher-pitched clack sound and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Gray would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force. The Polaris Gray switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, but the Polaris Gray also has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Gray depends on your personal preference for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more