TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience. The TTC Bluish White switch is a tactile option known for its satisfying, poppy response and low-pitched, snappy sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel without sacrificing auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade employs Hall Effect technology to deliver a bright, clacky sound that can elevate the auditory experience, particularly when used with Wooting keyboards designed for these switches. This switch is a top choice for users seeking superior acoustics and a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference: whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a muted sound or prefer a vibrant auditory response combined with cutting-edge technology. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share the same housing materials for both their top and bottom housings, which allows them to produce comparable sound profiles and tactile sensations. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of this plastic. This shared material also enables the switches to effectively showcase RGB lighting, given polycarbonate's translucency. In the context of audio feedback during typing, users can expect a similar resonant sound quality from both switches as a result of their identical polycarbonate top housings.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, another shared characteristic that influences the audible experience and feel when a key is pressed. Nylon's softer properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate. This results in a more muted and rounder sound when bottoming out, which contrasts with the sharper sound produced by the top housing. As such, while the top housing creates a bright sound during release, the nylon bottom housing enhances the overall tactile experience by introducing a warmth and depth.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, with their matching housing materials of polycarbonate on top and nylon on the bottom, can be expected to deliver a cohesive auditory experience with both sharpness and depth. This design synergy allows for a balanced performance: the polycarbonate's resonant qualities shine during key release, while the nylon dampens the feedback upon bottoming out. Users can confidently select either switch knowing that they will achieve a similar sound profile and tactile sensation due to these overlapping material compositions.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch present interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch has a lower actuation force of 30 grams but a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the Magnetic Jade requires less force to trigger a keystroke, it does not bottom out until a heavier force is applied compared to the Bluish White. Consequently, the Bluish White is the heavier switch when considering the actuation and bottom out forces together, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade is lighter in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, users who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use may prefer the Magnetic Jade, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial feel might gravitate towards the Bluish White.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch is exactly the same, measuring at 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a similar experience when pressing down on either switch, as both provide the same amount of key travel from the top to the bottom. The equal travel distance ensures that users will likely experience comparable feedback and responsiveness, making both options viable for achieving similar tactile sensations during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched, snappy sound profile that is characterized by a satisfying pop. This makes it quite enjoyable for those who appreciate a bass-heavy typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is known for producing a bright and clacky sound that contributes to an engaging auditory experience for typists. While both switches provide distinctly different sonic qualities, it's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycap choice, so individuals can adjust their setup to achieve desired levels of acoustics.
The feel of the TTC Bluish White switch is noteworthy for its buttery smoothness and mild character, offering a seamless typing experience without harsh interruptions. The tactile feedback is stepped, which means users can feel two stages in the keystroke, providing a gentle yet noticeable response. This creates a typing environment that is approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the specifics of the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch remain unknown, which makes it difficult to directly compare it against the tactile experience of the Bluish White. However, switches of this type generally tend to prioritize a distinct feedback pattern that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide unique and appealing attributes that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Bluish White excels in delivering a low-pitched, poppy sound and a smooth, mild tactile experience characterized by subtlety and polish. The Magnetic Jade, while providing a clacky auditory signature, leaves some elements of tactile feedback unspecified, presenting an opportunity for those interested to discover its qualities firsthand. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you value a smooth, mellow typing experience or a brighter and more resonant auditory feel, and minor adjustments to your setup may yield similar results in sound for either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Bluish White switch is an excellent option. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams, combined with its low-pitched sound and buttery, polished feel, makes it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and ease are paramount. The snappy, mild characteristics also make it approachable, making it a favorite among newcomers who may value a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a clackier sound profile and a slightly firmer actuation—thanks to its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams—the Magnetic Jade switch would be the better choice. It excels in providing a vibrant auditory feedback, appealing to individuals who appreciate the acoustic experience of typing. Ultimately, if a lively and superior typing experience along with improved acoustics is what you seek, the Magnetic Jade will meet your needs wonderfully. In essence, consider your preference for sound, feel, and typing intensity when choosing between these two remarkable switches.
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