TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Magnetic Jade present two distinct options tailored to different typing experiences. The Gold Brown switch is celebrated for its balanced feel, featuring a mild tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced. Its moderate weightiness and rounded sound profile create a typing experience that is both soothing and refined, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the nuances of tactile feedback and a quieter operation. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade leverages innovative hall effect technology to deliver a bright, clacky sound that stands out, particularly appealing to users who prioritize a dynamic auditory experience. This switch is designed for those seeking superior acoustics and more immersive engagement while typing. Each switch has its unique charm, with the Gold Brown favoring a more subdued, polished experience and the Magnetic Jade embracing a lively, vibrant sound. 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
55g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches exhibit remarkable similarities, particularly in their top housing components. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch’s acoustic output. Furthermore, both switches leverage the translucency of polycarbonate, making them particularly compatible for setups that utilize RGB lighting. This shared characteristic ensures that users will experience a visually appealing illumination effect alongside an enhanced auditory feedback when using either switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge between the two switches, as both the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Magnetic Jade incorporate nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is recognized for its softer qualities, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during operation. When typing on switches with nylon bottoms, the material’s ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while the top housings of both switches produce clear and resonant sounds, the bottom housings add a layer of warmth and depth. This differentiation highlights the importance of both materials in creating unique sound profiles, as the contrasting properties serve to balance and enrich the overall typing experience.
Overall, despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share a fundamental acoustic characteristic derived from their polycarbonate top housings. Users can expect similar high-pitched, crisp sounds during key release due to the shared polycarbonate construction. Ultimately, the combination of materials defines the switches' auditory cues, with the polycarbonate contributing to brightness and the nylon lending depth. This interplay ensures that both switches provide a nuanced typing experience, blending the advantages of their respective materials effectively.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown features a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, contrasted with the lighter 30 grams of the Magnetic Jade. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown is 63 grams, while the Magnetic Jade has a more moderate force of 55 grams. This means that the Gold Brown is generally heftier, providing a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, making it suitable for longer typing sessions without overwhelming fatigue. Ultimately, those who prioritize a lighter touch should lean towards the Magnetic Jade, while users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may appreciate the Gold Brown's heavier forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the Gold Brown switch provides a more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, aligning with the preferences of those who enjoy a hearty depth in their key presses. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel, caters more to gamers and users looking for faster response times and a snappier feel. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel of the Magnetic Jade may be more appealing, while the Gold Brown is better suited for those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown switch is characterized by a rounded, softer sound profile that lends itself well to both casual and professional environments. This nuanced sound is neutral, striking a balance that neither overwhelms nor fades into the background, making it versatile for various uses. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch produces a considerably brighter and clackier sound. As a Hall Effect switch, it is designed to offer more acoustic resonance, perfect for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience while typing. The choice between these switches largely depends on personal preferences regarding how sound impacts the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch delivers a mildly tactile experience, which many find approachable and comfortable. It offers a gentle bump that indicates actuation without being overwhelming, making it ideal for long typing sessions. Additionally, the Gold Brown's buttery smooth keystroke contributes to a refined typing sensation, highlighting a polished finish that minimizes friction. In comparison, the characteristics of the Magnetic Jade switch are less defined but would typically also provide a unique tactile sensation due to its magnetic actuation. However, without specific descriptions available for its feel, it is harder to draw direct comparisons on this dimension.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Gold Brown is tailored for those seeking a balanced, soft sound and a mild tactile experience, making it suitable for a wide array of settings. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade appeals to enthusiasts who prefer a more vibrant sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual sound and feel preferences, but either switch can provide satisfactory results when appropriately matched with the right keyboard and keycap combination.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches really comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you seek a balanced and moderate typing experience, the Gold Brown is the way to go. With its pleasant tactile bump and soft sound profile, it’s well-suited for both work and home environments, making it an excellent option for those who want a comfortable yet engaging typing experience. Its nuanced feel, characterized by mild and buttery motions, provides an enjoyable and refined touch, ideal for long hours of typing without fatigue.
On the other hand, if you prioritize sound and are looking for a more vibrant, clacky acoustic profile, the Magnetic Jade switches would be your best bet. With a medium-light bottom out force, they allow for a quicker response time and an exciting typing experience, particularly if you're using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Their unique sound signature adds an element of fun and personality to your workplace setup or gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you are an enthusiast looking to amplify your typing enjoyment with a lively sound, the Magnetic Jade is hard to beat. Therefore, consider your typing habits, environment, and what aspects of a switch matter most to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
