TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two impressive options stand out: the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its resonant character and a slightly bass-heavy sound profile, offering a delightful auditory experience with every keystroke. With a bottom-out force of just 47g, this linear switch facilitates swift and easy typing, making it an attractive choice for both keyboard enthusiasts and those who rely on their keyboards for daily tasks. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is known for its bright and clacky sound, providing an upgrade for those looking to enhance the acoustic quality of their typing experience. While the Flaming Purple is tailored for smooth and feather-light keystrokes, the Magnetic Jade aims to deliver a more pronounced auditory feedback and a unique tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference – whether you favor the subtlety of a streamlined linear switch or the engaging soundscape of a hall effect switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly shapes their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to the material's inherent stiffness. This clarity and resonance are qualities appreciated by typists who prefer a sharper auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is aesthetically beneficial for users who utilize RGB lighting, ensuring that their keyboard looks visually appealing while still providing the desired acoustic feedback. Thus, both switches will yield similar auditory results associated with their top housings, enhancing the overall typing experience.
When considering the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which contrasts notably with the polycarbonate top. Nylon is known for its softness, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory feedback when typing. The presence of nylon in both the Flaming Purple and the Magnetic Jade switches suggests that users can expect a consistent sound experience derived from their bottom housings. This shared material characteristic will contribute to the overall acoustic performance once the switches are pressed down, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel in a way that pairs well with the sharper qualities provided by the polycarbonate top.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both the Flaming Purple and Magnetic Jade creates a balanced acoustic profile. While the rigid top enhances clarity and sharpness, the soft bottom provides a more muted and rounded sound. This duality in housing materials allows users to enjoy a typing experience that is both crisp and full-bodied. Therefore, despite their distinct characteristics, both switches deliver a harmonious auditory experience that is shaped by the interplay of the materials used in their construction, resulting in a cohesive sound profile that typists can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Purple switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it a lighter option that can enhance typing comfort for extended use, making it ideal for prolonged work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This design might appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience, despite the lighter initial actuation. Consequently, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Flaming Purple is overall heavier in terms of actuation but lighter at bottom out when compared to the Magnetic Jade switch. Users seeking a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade for its lower actuation force, whereas those favoring a firmer feeling during bottom out should consider the Flaming Purple.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Flaming Purple the longer option, providing a more substantial feel, which some users may appreciate for its depth. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more rapid actuation. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can influence the overall typing experience, with the Flaming Purple offering a slightly more cushioned feel, while the Magnetic Jade leans towards a more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding key depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch produces a unique auditory profile characterized by its bassy and low-pitched resonance. This switch strikes a balance between neutrality and depth, creating a richer sound that can be described as poppy, giving a delightful flair to each keystroke. The resonant quality enriches the auditory experience, making each press feel more engaging. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch produces a bright and clacky sound, ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback. While both switches may offer enjoyable sound experiences, the Flaming Purple's deeper undertones versus the Jade's brighter notes will cater to different auditory preferences.
In terms of tactile sensation, the TTC Flaming Purple excels with its feathery, silky feel, making it exceptionally pleasant for extended typing sessions. The light actuation force of 47g results in an effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue while providing a gentle resistance that encourages quick typing. This tactile softness combines with smooth key travel, enhancing overall comfort. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switch's specific feel is not detailed, leaving the potential tactile experience unknown. However, if it shares characteristics with other Gateron switches, it may offer a distinct yet enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches present unique qualities that will appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Flaming Purple caters to those who appreciate a rich, resonant sound and a feather-light, silky feel, providing comfort and engagement during extensive use. Meanwhile, the Magnetic Jade appeals to users who favor a brighter acoustic signature, although its tactile sensation remains less defined. Together, these switches showcase the diversity in mechanical keyboard switches, underscoring how personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right one for your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, your preferences and typing style play a crucial role. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a gentle 47g bottom-out force, the Flaming Purple is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a feathery typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. This switch’s unique resonant quality caters to those who appreciate a deeper, bassy sound that adds character to your typing. On the other hand, if you value a slightly firmer feel with a 55g bottom-out force and are looking for a bright, clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade is your go-to option. These are ideal for typists who want an upgraded, more responsive experience while benefiting from the superior acoustics of hall effect technology. Ultimately, it depends on whether you prioritize a lightweight feel and sound richness or a more tactile feedback and lively auditory response, so consider your typing habits and sound preferences before making a decision.
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