Gateron CJ vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Gateron CJ is a linear switch that offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel make it stand out among other linear switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that provides an exhilarating typing experience with its big tactile bump. Additionally, the snappy sound profile adds to its appeal. While both switches offer their own strengths, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing the best switch for you. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the SP-Star Polaris Purple have contrasting housing materials. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a thin and clacky sound that is satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more resonant and clear sound. While both housing materials create distinct sounds, the CJ's INK blend offers a slightly less sharp and more rounded sound compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ incorporates a POM material. This generates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. The POM housing gives the CJ a unique sound, adding depth to the switch's overall audio output. Conversely, the Polaris Purple employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This consistency in material contributes to a consistent sound throughout the switch. The polycarbonate bottom housing brings the same high-pitched and crisp qualities, resulting in a sharp and clear sound experience. Whether it is the CJ's POM or the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate, both materials play a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.

While the CJ and the Polaris Purple differ in their housing materials, they both highlight the significance of the top housing in the sound profile. The top housing is responsible for the sound emitted when a key is released. The CJ's INK blend top housing offers a satisfying, clacky sound that is not overly sharp. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple delivers a higher-pitched and crisper sound. Both materials contribute to an aesthetically pleasing auditory experience when releasing a key. Additionally, the CJ's INK blend and the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housings are translucent, making them ideal choices for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, both switches ensure optimal sound quality and visual appeal when it comes to key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.

Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, such as the CJ, as it allows for longer periods of typing and is well-suited for work or extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, others may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force, like the Polaris Purple, for a more substantial typing experience.

While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unavailable, its bottom out force is higher than that of the CJ, making it comparatively heavier. Both switches offer similar results in terms of bottoming out, providing a satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profile of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, the CJ is best described as chirpy and low-pitched. It has a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other linear switches, offering a higher-pitched clack sound when typing. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and settings. The sound of both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the CJ and Polaris Purple switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. These switches have qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is worth noting that both switches provide a different typing experience due to their linear and tactile nature, respectively.

Based on the available information, the CJ switch stands out for its unique chirpy sound and impossibly smooth push feel. It offers a different typing experience compared to the Polaris Purple switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with its big tactile bump and snappy sound profile. However, since both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for linear or tactile switches.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering the Gateron CJ linear switch, you should take into account its medium bottom out force of 60 grams and unique and enjoyable presentation. Typing on these switches will give you a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams and is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump. The sound profile of the CJ is described as chirpy, neutral, low-pitched, or thocky, while the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile. As for feel, both switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. However, the Polaris Purple also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with unique qualities and higher-pitched clacks, or a tactile switch with an exciting bump and polished finish. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more