Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The CJ is renowned for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on the CJ switch rewards users with higher-pitched clacks and an unbelievably smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the CJ switch offers a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear by Wuque elevates the office and work experience with its exceptional responsiveness and satisfying bottom-out. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise while maintaining unparalleled responsiveness. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued', the WS Silent Linear switches deviate from traditional silent switches by avoiding silicone dampeners, providing users with a typing experience that seamlessly blends tranquility and precision. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear have different housing materials, resulting in variations in sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound. This creates a satisfying, clacky sensation when typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear uses a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, they differ in terms of pitch and overall feel.
In terms of bottom housings, the CJ utilizes a POM material, contributing to a deeper and relatively more muted sound. The POM housings in CJ switches create a sound profile that leans towards the lower end of the spectrum, offering a unique typing experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear incorporates a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing material. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice contributes to a more rounded and muffled sound when compared to harder plastics. Overall, the choice of bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
It should be noted that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the CJ and WS Silent Linear may offer similar results in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, as both use nylon for their bottom housings. However, their differing top housing materials will result in variations in the sound profile when keys are released. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials offer users options to choose the typing experience that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some notable differences. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the CJ requiring 60 grams and the WS Silent Linear requiring 63.5 grams. This means that when a key is pressed all the way down, they both provide a substantial typing experience.
Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time, making it suitable for office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the CJ can be considered lighter due to its lower actuation force, while the WS Silent Linear can be considered heavier with its unknown actuation force and slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, users interested in a smoother and quieter typing experience might be more inclined towards the WS Silent Linear, while those who value a lighter touch for longer typing sessions might gravitate towards the Gateron CJ.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we can see that the CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the CJ has a longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Linear. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, 3.5mm is slightly shorter and may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the WS Silent Linear with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the CJ with its longer travel distance would be a suitable choice.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 sound that sets it apart from other switches. Additionally, the CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch aims to elevate an office or work experience by reducing switch noise. It features ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, resulting in a muted and subdued sound when pressed. This provides a quieter and more tranquil typing experience compared to traditional silent switches. Both switches fall into the neutral category, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the CJ switch offers a higher-pitched and chirpy sound, while the WS Silent Linear switch produces a softer and more muted sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means they offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The qualities of these switches stand in a safe and middle-ground zone, ensuring that the sound and feel will be approachable and enjoyable for most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer different sound experiences. The CJ switch is known for its unique chirpy sound, higher-pitched clacks, and smooth push feel, providing a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch aims to reduce switch noise, resulting in a more muted and subdued sound. Both switches fall into the neutral category in terms of sound profile, and they share the same mild feel, which offers a gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired sound and feel for the keyboard. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
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 is an excellent choice. With its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, typing on the CJ switch offers a distinct and satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter environment without sacrificing responsiveness and precision, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is the way to go. Its ingeniously designed stem railings reduce switch noise while providing a seamless blend of tranquility and a satisfying bottom-out. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the WS Silent Linear offers a different typing experience compared to the CJ. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on whether you prefer the unique acoustics and smoothness of the CJ or the quiet and precise typing experience provided by the WS Silent Linear.
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