Gateron Box CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, two distinct preferences emerge for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Box CJ offers a rapid response time with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a smooth typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy', the WS Light Tactile is described as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch caters to different typing preferences and purposes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which helps create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box CJ utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials contribute to variations in sound and feel. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Box CJ absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing also provides a deep and full sound experience but with its own unique characteristics. These differences in bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience and the sound feedback produced by each switch.
In terms of performance, the choice between the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile will ultimately come down to personal preference. Both switches offer a blend of sharpness and depth in sound, with the main distinction being the bottom housing material. Whether you prefer the crisper sound profile of the Box CJ with its nylon bottom housing or the rounder sound of the WS Light Tactile with its softer nylon bottom housing, each switch provides a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they provide a similar amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the WS Light Tactile requires 50 grams, making the latter switch lighter in comparison. The Box CJ is considered medium-light in terms of bottom out force, whereas the WS Light Tactile is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the WS Light Tactile switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Box CJ switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that both switches offer the same distance for users to press down on the key. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience when using either switch. Overall, both switches have the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for those looking for a standard key press experience.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Box CJ switch is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, which is suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. Both switches are versatile in terms of sound, with the Box CJ leaning towards a more distinctive and sharp sound, while the WS Light Tactile maintains a more balanced and moderate profile.
In regard to feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch is praised for its impossibly smooth push feel, offering typists a seamless and effortless typing experience. It falls under the category of a mild switch, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, with a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. It also features a stepped design, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer different yet appealing qualities to users. While the Box CJ excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, the WS Light Tactile provides a neutral sound profile with a light actuation force and subtle tactile feedback. Both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on individual preferences and typing styles, ensuring an enjoyable and responsive typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize rapid response and a smooth glide while typing, opt for the Gateron Box CJ with its medium-light bottom out force and higher-pitched clacks. Additionally, if you prefer a switch that allows for customization of lubrication and offers a blank slate for enthusiasts, the Box CJ is a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light tactile switch with a noticeable bump and neutral sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile is the way to go. With its light bottom out force and easy-to-press nature, these switches enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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