Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The CJ is known for its unique presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a remarkable tactile experience with a pronounced bump and a satisfying resistance of 70g. Additionally, the nylon housings of the Wuque switches contribute to a satisfying "thocky" resonance, providing a captivating sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and advantages, making them appealing choices for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their housing materials. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying thin and clacky sound. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to the CJ's INK blend housing. Despite these differences, both switches provide a distinct sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ uses POM material. This creates a unique and pleasing sound, leaning towards the deeper side. The sound produced by the CJ's POM housing is relatively more muted. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing. Similar to its nylon top housing, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Although these two switches differ in their bottom housing materials, they both offer a deep and distinct sound experience.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the switch's sound and feel, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more apparent in the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the type of material used in the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the housing material of the top housing will be more significant in generating the specific click or clack sound when keys are released. While the CJ and WS Heavy Tactile may have different housing materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of top and bottom housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The CJ, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has an unknown actuation force, but it has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the better choice. With its lighter bottom out force, it allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. This lightness can be beneficial for those who value comfort and want to avoid unnecessary strain on their fingers.

In contrast, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience. With its actuation force of 50 grams, users will feel a bit more resistance when triggering a keystroke compared to the WS Heavy Tactile switch. Additionally, the CJ requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more pronounced feedback while typing.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch comes down to personal preference. If a lighter and smoother typing experience is desired, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch would provide the desired resistance and feedback.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see that there is a noticeable difference. The CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm.

The CJ's 4.0 mm travel distance provides a deeper press, allowing for a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm offers a quicker and more responsive keystroke, which can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer a faster response time.

It's important to consider personal preference when selecting a switch, as the decision ultimately depends on the individual's desired typing experience. Some may find the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile to be too shallow and abrupt, while others may appreciate the precision it offers. Those who favor a more traditional and robust feel might lean towards the CJ's longer travel distance.

Overall, both switches provide distinct advantages depending on the user's needs and preferences. Whether opting for the shorter or longer travel distance, one can achieve similar results in terms of typing efficiency and accuracy, as both switches are designed to deliver a smooth and seamless keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. It produces higher-pitched clacks, giving it a chirpy and distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a captivating sound profile. With Wuque Studios' nylon housings, these switches create a "thocky" resonance, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the CJ switch is described as neutral and low-pitched. Overall, the CJ and WS Heavy Tactile switches offer different sound profiles - CJ being chirpy and high-pitched, and WS Heavy Tactile being clacky and resonant.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, resulting in a mild and gentle typing experience. It stands in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and pronounced tactile bump. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke provides satisfying resistance, creating an immersive and engaging typing sensation. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is also described as accented, bouncy, sharp, and snappy, indicating a prominent amount of tactility and a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with CJ being mild and WS Heavy Tactile being more pronounced and invigorating.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The CJ offers a unique and enjoyable sound profile with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch presents a captivating sound profile with a "thocky" resonance and provides an invigorating and pronounced tactile bump. While they have different qualities, it is important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, depending on your preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ switch is the way to go. It offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a remarkable tactile experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the ideal choice. With a pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying resistance, each keystroke becomes engaging and immersive. Plus, the switch produces a captivating and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your preference for the force required, auditory feedback, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$3.50 per 10

Learn more