Gateron Box CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash stand out for their unique attributes, catering to different user preferences. The Gateron Box CJ, a linear switch, is celebrated for its swift responsiveness and smooth keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers alike who crave rapid feedback and a higher-pitched clack. Its unlubed design offers a raw yet satisfying experience, providing a blank canvas for enthusiasts to tweak as desired. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a Hall Effect switch, combines the benefits of cutting-edge technology with an engaging tactile sensation. Known for its bright and clacky sound, the WS Dash offers a silky smooth keystroke, complementing its innovative design that ensures longevity and consistent performance. Both switches have compelling reasons to be chosen, whether you value the customization and speed of the Box CJ or the refined, long-lasting performance of the WS Dash. 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
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches, it's evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer resonance, making it an ideal option, especially for tactile feedback in typing. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetic, particularly when integrated with RGB lighting. This means that users who prioritize sound clarity and lighting effects will experience similar auditory and visual benefits from both switch models.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Gateron Box CJ and Wuque Studio WS Dash differ, as they both incorporate nylon, albeit with distinct effects on sound. The nylon in the Box CJ and WS Dash contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer material that absorbs sound more effectively than the harder plastics typically used in other switches. This characteristic leads to a rounder and softer bottom-out sound, providing a different tactile experience when a key is pressed down. Therefore, while both switches benefit from the crispness of polycarbonate in the top housing, the energy absorption from the nylon bottom housing creates a noticeable contrast in their overall sound profiles during use.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Box CJ and WS Dash emphasizes how the integration of polycarbonate and nylon affects the user experience. The polycarbonate top produces a bright and resonant sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom lends a warmer, muted sound during actuation. This division of material properties means that, even though the top sounds are similar, the bottom-out experience will vary, allowing users to enjoy distinct auditory characteristics. Even if the switches share some components, the nuanced differences in their acoustics offer a diverse range of sound profiles that can cater to individual preferences in typing feel and experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Box CJ requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Dash is lighter at only 30 grams. This difference can make the WS Dash more appealing for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for more comfortable typing over extended periods. Both switches have relatively similar bottom out forces, with the Box CJ at 57 grams and the WS Dash slightly lower at 55 grams. Despite this minor difference, the overall experience is still medium-light for both switches. Ultimately, the Box CJ presents a heavier feel, making it suitable for those who like a firmer push during typing, while the WS Dash caters to users seeking a softer action.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there is a clear difference in their specifications. The Box CJ features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a traditional option that provides a hearty depth for users who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience. Conversely, the WS Dash has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter and may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. While both switches can deliver satisfying performance depending on personal preference, the Box CJ's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, whereas the WS Dash's shorter travel distance might feel more abrupt to some users. Thus, for those who favor deeper keystrokes, the Gateron Box CJ is the preferable choice, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box 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 Box CJ for $5.35.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash comes in at $7.49 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 sound profile of the Gateron Box CJ switch is characterized by a bright and clacky signature, producing sharp, percussive sounds when keys are pressed. This creates an engaging typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the WS Dash switch, although lacking detailed descriptors, is also noted for its bright and clacky acoustics. This similarity in sound profile indicates that users of either switch can expect a lively auditory presence; however, the actual sound may vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can amplify or mellow the acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the Box CJ offers a smooth keystroke with a mild actuation force, creating an accessible typing experience that balances comfort and responsiveness. This switch is designed for those who prefer a gentle touch without overwhelming tactile feedback. In comparison, the feel of the WS Dash is less documented, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the silkiness of the WS Dash's keystroke suggests that it may offer a similarly smooth typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and fluidity in their key presses.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Box CJ and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches exhibit vibrant sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, though the specific characteristics of the WS Dash remain less defined. The Box CJ provides a pleasantly mild feel, which might resonate with many users, while details on the tactile feedback of the WS Dash are currently unclear. Users seeking a lively, auditory typing experience with a smooth keystroke may gravitate toward either option, depending on their particular preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switches, your personal preferences and intended use will guide your choice. If you are someone who appreciates a more traditional keyboard experience, with a focus on speed and a lightly clacky sound, the Box CJ is an excellent option. Its 57-gram bottom-out force provides a smooth typing experience, and its unlubed nature allows for customization that suits your tactile preferences. On the other hand, if you desire a more refined touch with a bright, clacky sound signature, the WS Dash offers a unique charm, complemented by its silky-smooth keystrokes and slightly lower 55-gram force. The hall effect technology in the WS Dash may also appeal to gamers or those looking for durable switches. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with your specific typing style, sound preferences, and the overall feel you want in your mechanical keyboard.
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