TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Magnetic Jade represent two distinct yet compelling options that cater to differing user preferences. The TTC Gold Red Pro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its versatility and smooth actuation, providing a seamless typing experience that adapts effortlessly to various tasks—be it gaming, office work, or casual typing. Its neutral sound signature is perfect for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback while enjoying a low-pitched, silky feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is ideal for those who desire a distinctive "clacky" sound—a hallmark of a premium typing experience. This switch excels in delivering superior acoustics, making it particularly appealing for enthusiasts looking to elevate their keystroke feedback. While both switches have their unique advantages, choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the intended use of your keyboard. 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
43g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches both feature similar housing materials that showcase the benefits of polycarbonate and nylon. Starting with the top housing, both switches incorporate polycarbonate, a material recognized for its ability to provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when the key is pressed and released. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting, allowing light to diffuse beautifully through the switch. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing, particularly in how the sound resonates during use.
When examining the bottom housings, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Magnetic Jade maintain their consistency by employing nylon for both switches. Known as a classic in the world of switch materials, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound than harder alternatives. Therefore, the bottom-out sounds from both switches will be notably rounder and more muted, enhancing the overall typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that the foundational sound characteristics remain consistent across both switches, making them both enjoyable to use regardless of the user’s keystroke preferences.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches leads to a distinctive yet comparable auditory experience. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of sound during key release, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and softer tone during key presses. This duality within each switch allows users to appreciate the distinct characteristics that each material brings without straying far from a cohesive or uniform typing experience. The synergy of materials ultimately means that users can attain similarly satisfying results in terms of sound and feel regardless of their choice between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro features an actuation force of 43 grams, which is heavier than the Magnetic Jade's actuation force of 30 grams, making the Gold Red Pro feel more substantial when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the Magnetic Jade's bottom out force is set at 55 grams, indicating that it significantly resists full key presses compared to the Gold Red Pro— which presumably offers a lighter bottoming experience. For users who prefer lighter switches that allow for extended typing sessions, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the preferable choice due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might gravitate towards the TTC Gold Red Pro, assuming it offers a reasonable bottom out force. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, while the Gold Red Pro provides a heftier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Gold Red Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Magnetic Jade measures 3.5 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade has the shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro, with its longer travel distance, could be favored by those who enjoy a more traditional feel and hearty depth when pressing down on a key. While both switches cater to different preferences, the distinction in travel distance highlights the contrasting user experiences they offer, with the TTC Gold Red Pro providing a deeper press compared to the more efficient, rapid engagement of the Gateron Magnetic Jade.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch presents a neutral auditory profile, making it versatile for various environments. Its deep, thocky sound is complemented by a low-pitched tone, contributing to a satisfying typing experience without being overly intrusive. This makes it a suitable choice for both office and home settings, as it strikes a balance between being audible and unobtrusive. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback. Its sound profile could potentially stand out more in a shared space, catering specifically to those who prioritize a lively auditory experience while typing.
When examining the feel of these switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro excels with its polished and silky characteristics, offering a remarkably smooth typing experience. The mild and subtle resistance makes it approachable for users new to mechanical switches while still providing an enjoyable interaction for seasoned typists. The refined key travel ensures a pleasant tactile sensation without excessive effort. The feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch, however, remains unspecified, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation. While they may deliver an enjoyable typing experience, the lack of detailed descriptors makes it difficult to compare directly to the Gold Red Pro's known smoothness and refined action.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red Pro provides a versatile sound and feel, accommodating a broad range of typing preferences without overwhelming the user. Its deep, neutral sound combined with a smooth and mild tactile experience makes it suitable for any environment. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, while noted for its clacky auditory profile, lacks detail on its tactile qualities, making it a less transparent choice for newcomers. Overall, if you're seeking an adaptable switch that works well in both auditory and tactile dimensions, the Gold Red Pro may be the more consistent option based on the known qualities, while the Magnetic Jade might be reserved for those with a specific penchant for lively acoustics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you are someone who values versatility and a seamless typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. Its polished, silky feel and neutral sound profile make it a fantastic option for various tasks, whether you’re typing at work, gaming, or simply enjoying a leisurely typing session. The absence of a specified bottom-out force means that you can expect a very gentle actuation, which can accommodate a wide range of users, including beginners. On the other hand, if you prioritize acoustics and you're looking for a typing experience that truly captivates, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the way to go. With its bright, clacky sound and a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, this switch excels in providing a superior auditory experience that can elevate your typing. Thus, if you enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing and are excited by the prospect of upgrading your setup with a tactile and engaging feel, this switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you seek a smooth, versatile experience or a more dynamic auditory one, both of which can contribute significantly to your overall typing satisfaction.
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