Gateron Box CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Box CJ and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches both offer unique features worth considering. The Box CJ is praised for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a rapid response and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out for its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offering a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive touch. Both switches are categorized as neutral, but the CJ is described as clacky and mild while the Onion is buttery and polished. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches intended to be used with lighting effects. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a more audible feedback.
In contrast, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. While the top housing material may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a well-rounded typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the benefits of polycarbonate and nylon. The clear top housing of polycarbonate provides a sharper sound profile and allows for RGB lighting to shine through, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. By utilizing these materials in different parts of the switch, both manufacturers have created switches that offer a balance of tactile feedback, sound profile, and aesthetic appeal for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ is lighter while the WS Onion is heavier. The Box CJ has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion lacks information on actuation force, but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during extended use, the Box CJ would be the more suitable option. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the WS Onion for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth keypress experience with the same amount of travel distance to provide a satisfying typing feel. Users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and actuation feel when using either of these switches. Overall, both switches offer a similar travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a standard key travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 offers a clacky experience with sharp and snappy sounds, making each keystroke crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Box CJ offering a more distinct auditory feedback compared to the WS Onion's more subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch boasts a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The polished finish of the WS Onion switch contributes to a sleek typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing key travel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Box CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ excels in providing a clacky sound and mild typing experience, the WS Onion stands out with its buttery smooth feel and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, ensuring that the selected switch aligns with the user's desired keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Box CJ if you prioritize rapid response, higher-pitched clacks, and an impossibly smooth push feel. The Box CJ is great for those looking for a clacky and neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the WS Onion if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel, a crisp and responsive typing experience, and a neutral sound profile. The WS Onion offers a smooth and fluid typing sensation with a polished finish. Overall, the Box CJ is suitable for those seeking speed and higher-pitched clacks, while the WS Onion is perfect for those looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Assess your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch will best suit your mechanical keyboard setup.
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