Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Red are both linear switches, yet they offer different experiences that cater to different preferences. The CJ is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on it, users can expect higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It falls under categories such as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the WS Red is popular for its bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. It retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend and offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke. This delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While these general pointers can help you make an initial decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing which produces a pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound. This clacky sound is satisfying to many users. In contrast, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the CJ offers a thinner and higher-pitched sound, the WS Red provides a deeper and fuller experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the CJ employs a POM material that generates a unique and pleasing sound. The sound profile of POM housings leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to other materials. On the other hand, the WS Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by absorbing more sound due to the softer nature of the plastic. Consequently, this creates a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from the distinctive qualities of their respective bottom housings, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of a switch is crucial as each material brings its own unique qualities. When using the CJ, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Pressing down on the CJ switch will provide a deeper and more muted sound due to the POM housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. In the case of the WS Red, the nylon material in both top and bottom housings emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound throughout the typing experience. Whether experiencing the CJ or WS Red, users can expect to have a well-balanced auditory encounter based on the materials utilized in each part of the switch housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The CJ switch requires a relatively lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Red switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares to the CJ switch. Moving on to the bottom out force, the CJ switch has a force requirement of 60 grams, which indicates a moderate level of firmness when fully pressed. On the other hand, the WS Red switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more substantial typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions, the CJ switch would be a suitable option. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces would allow for easier and less fatiguing keystrokes. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the WS Red switch. Its heavier bottom out force would provide a firmer and more satisfying sensation when fully pressing the keys.
While it is unclear how the actuation force of the WS Red switch compares to the CJ switch, it can be assumed that both switches share a similar level of actuation force if the WS Red switch is not specified to be lighter or heavier. This would indicate that, in terms of triggering keystrokes, users can expect similar results from both switches. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the WS Red switch is undoubtedly heavier than the CJ switch, promising a different typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the CJ has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm compared to the WS Red's travel distance of 3.8 mm. The CJ's travel distance falls within the more traditional range of 4 mm, while the WS Red is slightly shallower at 3.8 mm. This difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. For gamers, who value faster response times, the WS Red with its shorter travel distance might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper sensation when typing may opt for the CJ with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 CJ linear switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. It produces higher-pitched clacks, giving it a chirpy and distinctive sound. Additionally, the CJ switch provides an incredibly smooth push feel, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a chirpy and higher-pitched sound with a smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch would be a great choice. If you are unsure about the sound experience of the WS Red switch, you can expect to achieve similar results to the CJ switch by selecting a similar board and keycap combination.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience. This means that it offers a typing feel that is approachable for most users, falling within a safe and middle-ground zone. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch are unknown. If you are looking for a gentle and comfortable typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch is a suitable choice.
Considering the available information, the Gateron CJ linear switch stands out for its unique and enjoyable sound qualities. With higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, it offers a distinct typing experience. In terms of feel, it provides a mild and gentle typing experience, ensuring comfort for most users. On the other hand, information is lacking regarding the sound and feel characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. Therefore, if you are looking for a similar sound and feel experience to the Gateron CJ switch, you can aim for a combination of a board and keycaps that align with your preferences. Both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience, but the Gateron CJ switch provides more specific information to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience, the Gateron CJ linear switch is a great choice. With its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, it offers a distinct sound and feel that sets it apart from other linear switches. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, the CJ is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch might be the better option for you. With its 22mm double-stage spring and classic material blend, this switch delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While it has a heavier actuation force, it adds a touch of weight to each keystroke and retains a familiar sound signature.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider whether you value a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and smooth pushes, or a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force. Both switches offer their own advantages, so choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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