Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash stand out for their distinct characteristics and appeal. The Gateron CJ, a linear switch, is celebrated for its unique and enjoyable typing experience, producing higher-pitched clacks and an astonishingly smooth push feel, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a neutral and mild tactile response without distractions. In contrast, the WS Dash, a Hall Effect switch, offers a captivating re-color of the Magnetic Jade design, characterized by a bright and clacky sound signature coupled with a silky smooth keystroke. This switch not only elevates the user experience but also adds a touch of refinement to Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. While both switches provide different auditory and tactile experiences, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the seamless fluidity of a linear switch like the CJ or the vibrant and refined feedback of a Hall Effect switch like the WS Dash. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches, it's clear that both switches employ different materials that contribute distinct qualities to their acoustic profiles. The Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by its sharp, high-pitched sound that many users praise for its clackiness. In contrast, the WS Dash employs a polycarbonate top housing, which also delivers a similarly sharp and higher-pitched sound profile but does so with a greater emphasis on clarity and resonance, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Both materials lend themselves well to RGB lighting, especially the polycarbonate top of the WS Dash, which is translucent and enhances the lighting effects. Thus, while the materials differ, users can expect a similar auditory experience when it comes to the upper range of sounds produced, albeit with subtle tonal distinctions.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials used in each switch diverge greatly, affecting their overall sound profiles differently. The Gateron CJ features a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound. This contrasts sharply with the nylon bottom housing of the WS Dash, which generates a fuller and rounder sound profile due to nylon's softer, sound-absorbing qualities. The bottom-out feel and sound of both switches will be noticeably influenced by these different materials, with the CJ providing a softer landing compared to the crisper response of the WS Dash. Users will find that the place where they feel and hear the most variation is in the bottom housing, as these materials distinctly shape the fundamental characteristics of each switch's tactile and auditory feedback upon actuation.
In summary, while the top housings of both the Gateron CJ and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches might yield similar high-pitched sound profiles, the contrasting bottom housings introduce unique auditory signatures to each switch. The combination of a POM bottom housing with a proprietary INK blend top in the CJ provides a specific muted depth, while the nylon bottom with polycarbonate top in the WS Dash evokes a fuller sound experience. This mixture of properties ensures that although there may be overlapping acoustic qualities, the overall sensory experience will differ depending on the switch. Users may gravitate towards one or the other based on their preferences for sound characteristics and bottom-out feels, highlighting the importance of material choice in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable differences arise. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium weight switch. In contrast, the WS Dash features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. This means that the CJ requires more effort to actuate and bottom out compared to the WS Dash, which can provide a more comfortable typing experience for users who prefer lighter switches, especially during extended sessions. While both switches have medium to medium-light characteristics, the greater actuation force of the Gateron CJ gives it a heavier feel overall compared to the WS Dash, which is better suited for those who favor a soft touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gateron CJ offers a more traditional keystroke experience, which some users may prefer for its deeper depth and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Dash's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed and efficiency in their gameplay. Ultimately, the Gateron CJ is the longer option, providing a more substantial feel, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Dash is shorter, promoting a more responsive typing experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ switch is characterized by its unique tonal qualities, producing higher-pitched clacks that stand out from many linear switches. This chirpy and thocky sound profile offers a delightful auditory experience, marked by an almost playful squeak, while still maintaining a low-pitched depth that adds a bass-heavy richness. The sound signature of the CJ is versatile enough to suit various settings, whether at home or in an office environment. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch, renowned for its bright and clacky acoustic signature, brings a refined elegance to the table. Although specific descriptors for the WS Dash's sound are not provided, it can be expected to offer a similarly engaging auditory experience due to its silky smooth keystroke, which will likely complement its clacky nature.
When considering the feel, the Gateron CJ switch is described as offering a mild and gentle typing experience. This means that it strikes a balance that caters to a wide range of users, making it approachable and versatile for various typing scenarios. Its smooth push feel ensures that users can type quickly and accurately without the fatigue that may come from more pronounced switches. In contrast, the feel of the WS Dash switch remains unknown, yet one can reasonably assume that its notable smoothness could offer a comparable typing experience that would feel equally refined and enjoyable.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches provide unique and engaging experiences, albeit with some differences in customization. The CJ offers a pleasant blend of higher-pitched sounds and smooth keystrokes that cater well to most users, while the WS Dash adds a touch of refinement and brightness to the typing experience. While the WS Dash's feel remains unknown, the likelihood of it delivering a smooth and satisfying experience makes it a compelling option for enthusiasts. Both switches are likely to provide an enjoyable and distinctive typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the configuration of the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch will largely depend on your personal preferences in feel and sound, as well as the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a medium-weight switch that provides a uniquely enjoyable typing experience with a delightful chirpy sound and a low-pitched thock, the CJ might be your ideal choice. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a smooth keystroke and a slightly more pronounced acoustic profile, making it an excellent option for both work and casual typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a medium-light switch with a refined feel and you appreciate a bright, clacky sound signature, then the WS Dash is the switch for you. Its silky smooth keystroke complements a more fun and tactile typing experience, especially suitable for gaming or creative endeavors where every keystroke counts. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual usage patterns and how important sound and feel are to you in your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
