Gateron CJ vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the Durock White Lotus. The CJ is widely recognized for its unique and enjoyable linear switch experience. Typing on the CJ switches delivers high-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed specifically for discerning typists who appreciate a light tactile option. These switches strike the perfect balance between delicate tactility and usability, making them ideal for work and long typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for beautiful RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Both the CJ and White Lotus switches offer their own distinct advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Durock White Lotus switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This unique sound is satisfying for those who enjoy a thinner and higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing. This material provides a premium feel, although the specific sound profile is not mentioned. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective top housing materials.
In terms of their bottom housing, the CJ features a POM material that contributes to a pleasing and unique sound. The POM housing produces a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The differences in their bottom housing materials offer users distinct auditory experiences when bottoming out their keystrokes.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. This means that the CJ's POM bottom housing will contribute to the overall sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the White Lotus's nylon bottom housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Nonetheless, both switches offer a tactile typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium force category. However, there are slight differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Gateron CJ linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, slightly higher than the 46 grams required for the Durock White Lotus tactile switch. Similarly, the CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, slightly higher than the 56 grams required for the White Lotus switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Durock White Lotus may be the better option, as it requires a slightly lower force for both actuation and bottom out. This lighter force can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for a smoother typing experience.
On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a stronger and more substantial typing experience may find the Gateron CJ linear switch to be more suitable. With its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying push feel. This can be desirable for users who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, while both switches fall into the medium force category, the Durock White Lotus has a slightly lighter feel, with lower actuation and bottom out forces, compared to the Gateron CJ linear switch. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, with lighter forces being ideal for longer periods of typing and heavier forces offering a more substantial and tactile feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a satisfying level of tactile feedback and are suitable for typing and gaming purposes. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the CJ or the White Lotus switch.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 offers a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It can be described as chirpy, which means it has a little squeak to them. This acoustic signature sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. It provides a delicate tactility and strikes a perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the CJ switch also has the added descriptor of being thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most typists. It falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switch also has the additional descriptors of being subtle, which means it has gentle resistance but still maintains a light typing feel. This makes it suitable for shared spaces where a resonant sound signature may be undesirable.
Based on the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel, creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. In terms of feel, the CJ switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience, while the White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal resistance and a low-impact typing feel. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are in search of a unique and enjoyable linear switch that offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming you, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the way to go. The White Lotus also offers the added bonus of a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects. In terms of sound, both switches fall under the category of "neutral" and "low-pitched," ensuring a moderate sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. As for the feel, the CJ provides a mild and approachable typing experience, while the White Lotus offers an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the Gateron CJ and Durock White Lotus switches have their own unique qualities tailored to different preferences and needs, allowing you to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and aesthetic preferences.
Mentioned in this article
