Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are both linear switches that offer a unique and satisfying typing experience. The CJ switches are known for their higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth feel when pushing the keys. They are categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a buttery smooth keystroke feel. These switches have a crisp, responsive feel and a neutral sound profile, making them perfect for those who appreciate a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have different housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Onion's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials result in a satisfying thin and clear sound, making them suitable for users who prefer a higher-pitched profile. However, the CJ's INK blend offers a slightly softer sound compared to the Onion's polycarbonate housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ's POM housing provides an incredibly pleasing and unique deeper sound. It adds a muted element to the overall sound profile, catering to users who prefer a softer and more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder profile.
Although the top and bottom housings differ, both switches offer a distinct typing experience. Pressing down on the switch emphasizes the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Both switches provide an overall satisfying experience, with slight variations in pitch and depth between the two due to the different housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls within the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Onion switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the WS Onion is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals prefer lighter switches that allow for extended typing sessions, making them suitable for work or long gaming periods. In this case, the Gateron CJ with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be a preferred choice. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, while the Gateron CJ and the WS Onion switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, it is difficult to directly compare their actuation forces due to limited information. However, the WS Onion does have a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it fall in the medium-heavy range. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose the lighter Gateron CJ for extended typing sessions or the WS Onion for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches have the same distance that they travel from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key with either switch, the user will experience the same level of travel and feedback. Therefore, the results obtained from using either switch will be very similar in terms of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfactory typing experience, allowing users to comfortably register keystrokes with ease.
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 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 CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Typing on these switches produces higher-pitched clacks, giving them a distinct acoustic signature. This sets the CJ apart from other switches and adds an element of novelty to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force and produces a moderate sound. While the exact sound profile of the WS Onion is not specified, its neutral nature makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or whether you plan to use it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel. Typing on these switches offers a gentle and approachable experience, as they fall into the mild category. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is described as buttery and polished. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek typing experience. This could be due to either the materials used or factory lubing. With the WS Onion switch, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ is known for its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, providing a unique and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a neutral sound profile with a crisp and responsive feel. It provides a buttery smooth keystroke experience and a polished finish, giving it a distinct and satisfying feel. While the specific sound profile of the WS Onion is not mentioned, its neutral nature makes it suitable for most intents and purposes. If you are looking for a chirpy and higher-pitched sound profile with a smooth push feel, the CJ switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a neutral sound and a buttery smooth typing experience, the WS Onion switch would be a suitable option. As an expert, I would recommend trying out both switches to determine which one aligns better with your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience, the Gateron CJ is a great choice. With its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, typing on these switches will be a pleasure. Additionally, the CJ has a moderate sound profile that falls into the neutral category, making it suitable for various scenarios. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Onion is the way to go. These switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Furthermore, the WS Onion also falls into the neutral sound category, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will depend on your preferences for sound and feel.
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