Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Magnetic Jade represent two distinct approaches to tactile feedback and auditory experience. The Aliaz switches are designed with quiet environments in mind, making them an ideal choice for office settings where noise reduction is paramount. They provide a silky, muted keystroke with a medium-heavy weight, delivering a satisfying, yet discreet tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches boast a bright and clacky sound profile that enhances the typing experience, particularly on Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. These switches are favored by those who prioritize an engaging auditory response and premium acoustics during typing sessions. While both switches cater to different user preferences—one prioritizing silence and subtlety, and the other emphasizing auditory pleasure—each offers unique advantages that can elevate your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches show both similarities and differences that significantly affect their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that many users appreciate. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches deliver a crisp sound when typing, making them excellent options for those who enjoy the auditory feedback of a clicky keyboard. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for appealing RGB lighting effects, as the clear housing enhances the illumination of backlit keys.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge, which introduces a variability in sound and feel. The Aliaz employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the consistent sound profile established by the top housing, resulting in a unified acoustic experience across the switch. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and produces a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. This distinction leads to a more pronounced bottom-out sound in the Magnetic Jade, giving it a rounder and somewhat muted feel compared to the sharper response of the Aliaz.
This combination of housing materials creates different typing experiences even when the top housings are the same. While both switches produce a clear sound during keystrokes due to their polycarbonate tops, the Aliaz retains a consistent sound profile, melding the characteristics of both housings. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade’s nylon bottom housing accentuates a more subdued sound and tactile feel on bottoming out, contrasting with the Aliaz's more resonant feedback. Thus, users will find that while both switches can provide excellent visual aesthetics and high-pitched sound profiles, the nuanced differences in bottom housing materials lead to varied tactile sensations and acoustic outcomes that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade offers a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Thus, the Aliaz is the heavier option, while the Magnetic Jade is the lighter one, making the latter more suitable for those seeking comfort over long periods. This distinction in force requirements may influence a user's choice depending on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
When considering the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, a notable difference emerges. The Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option that offers a more substantial feedback experience, which many users might find satisfying if they prefer a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to users who favor a quicker response time, as is often preferred by gamers. This shorter distance can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios but may feel more abrupt for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress. Thus, if you lean towards a hearty depth while typing, the Gateron Aliaz would be the better choice, while the Magnetic Jade might suit those looking for speed and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 sound profile of the Gateron Aliaz switch is characterized by its muted quality, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as open offices or shared workspaces. This switch produces a softer and quieter sound when compared to traditional mechanical switches, effectively minimizing the noise that often accompanies typing. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch produces a bright, clacky sound that can enhance the auditory experience of typing. This lively sound profile not only adds character to each keystroke but can also create an engaging and satisfying atmosphere, especially for those who enjoy a more acoustic typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch excels in providing a silky and polished typing experience. This ultra-smooth action, combined with its medium-heavy weight, ensures that typists receive a satisfying tactile feedback without any jarring resistance. The refined finish and possibly factory lubing assist in reducing friction and enhancing overall key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Magnetic Jade switch is less defined in the information available, leaving questions about its typing characteristics. However, users can generally expect hall effect switches to deliver a unique and responsive feel due to their advanced technology that eliminates the wear issues associated with traditional mechanical switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet yet tactile typing experience, particularly in professional settings where noise is a concern. With its silky and polished feel, it caters to those who prioritize a refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch suits individuals looking for a lively and engaging sound along with a potentially different tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a quieter, more refined typing atmosphere with the Aliaz or the bright and expressive qualities offered by the Magnetic Jade. Both switches cater to specific needs, ensuring that you'll be pleased with either choice depending on your typing preferences and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you're primarily working in a quiet office environment or need a switch that minimizes noise while providing tactile feedback, the Gateron Aliaz is your best bet. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 75 grams, you'll experience a pronounced feel and silky, polished action that enhances your typing experience without disturbing those around you. In contrast, if you're looking to add a vibrant, engaging sound to your gaming or typing sessions, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the way to go. With a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams that encourages faster typing, these switches deliver a bright, clacky sound that can make your keyboard experience more exciting, particularly suited for dynamic environments. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you prioritize sound, feedback, and the overall typing feel—understanding these nuances will help you create the perfect mechanical setup tailored to your needs.
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