Gateron CJ vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular linear switches, the Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The CJ switch is known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. Categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', it offers a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, offering a timeless typing experience. With a 22mm double-stage spring and a material blend that provides a familiar sound signature, it is categorized as 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches provide satisfying feedback and effortless keystrokes, but let's delve deeper to help you decide which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 Gateron CJ and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This creates a satisfying thin and clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the WS Yellow employs a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the CJ's top housing offers a unique clacky sound, while the WS Yellow's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CJ features a POM housing that contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound. POM housings create a pleasing sound profile with a deeper tone. Conversely, the WS Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Similar to its impact on the top housing, nylon's absorbent properties contribute to a duller and rounder sound in the bottom housing. Therefore, while the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing adds to the switch's deeper sound profile.
The differing top and bottom housing materials in the CJ and WS Yellow impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down a key, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. For the CJ, the POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and somewhat muted bottom-out sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. With the CJ's INK blend top housing, the result is a satisfying thin and clacky sound upon key release. Similarly, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the CJ is slightly lighter as it has an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the WS Yellow, which has an unavailable actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the CJ having 60 grams and the WS Yellow having 53 grams.
The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke. The CJ switch requires 50 grams of force, which provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches are considered medium, but with slight variations. The CJ switch requires slightly more force at 60 grams, allowing for a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the WS Yellow switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly lighter. This lighter bottom out force may be preferred by individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the CJ and the WS Yellow switches differ, with the CJ being known at 50 grams and the WS Yellow being unavailable, both switches share a medium bottom out force. Depending on individual preference and typing style, one may choose the CJ for a slightly heavier and more substantial feel, or the WS Yellow for a slightly lighter touch. Regardless, both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the CJ being the longer option. The CJ switch offers a more traditional feel, with a slightly deeper travel distance, while the WS Yellow switch provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the WS Yellow switch a suitable choice for those seeking increased responsiveness. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a greater sense of depth when pressing down on a key may find the CJ switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired feel during typing or gaming activities.
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 Yellow 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
The Gateron CJ linear switch is best known for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on the CJ, users experience higher-pitched clacks and detect an impossibly smooth push feel. This switch can be described as chirpy, providing a little squeak that sets it apart from others. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the CJ switch falls under the category of low-pitched switches, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. As for the feel, the CJ is considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offers a delightful typing experience with its fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. These switches are equipped with a 22mm double-stage spring at their core, providing a satisfying bounce while typing. The WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to gliding fingers across the keys with ease. This may be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is also classified as mild, providing a gentle typing experience. It is further distinguished by its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches have distinct subjective qualities. The CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. It produces chirpy and low-pitched sound characteristics while providing a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch delivers a delightful typing experience with its satisfying bounce and creamy sensation. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to a polished finish and potentially lubrication at the factory. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, making them suitable for most users. Depending on personal preferences and requirements, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron CJ linear switch, you can expect a unique and enjoyable linear switch experience. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it falls into the medium range, offering a balanced typing feel. The CJ switch stands out with its higher-pitched clacks and remarkably smooth push feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is an excellent choice. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience. The WS Yellow's standout feature is the delightful bounce it offers, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring at the core. Additionally, the WS Yellow switches are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a smooth, fluid typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities and it's up to you to choose based on your preferences for sound and feel.
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