Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Magnetic Jade stand out for distinct reasons, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Grape Orange, classified as a linear switch, is particularly lauded for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, delivering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience that can be a boon during long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it an appealing upgrade for those seeking enhanced acoustics and a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Each switch offers unique benefits – the Grape Orange promotes speed and comfort, while the Magnetic Jade elevates auditory satisfaction and overall typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches share several similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches boast a polycarbonate top, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for enhanced clarity and resonance when typing. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who use RGB lighting, as it allows the colors to shine through more vibrantly. The identical descriptions of these switches' top housings indicate that users can expect similar auditory experiences when utilizing these switches, especially in terms of sound clarity and visual aesthetics.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Grape Orange and Magnetic Jade switches highlight the strengths of nylon, resulting in a distinct auditory experience. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which is characterized by a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than the harder polycarbonate material. Consequently, the nylon housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, producing a duller and rounder sound that contrasts with the crisper notes from the polycarbonate top. When comparing the two, it is clear that while the top housings create a similar sound quality, the different characteristics of the bottom housings will lead to varying sound profiles in terms of depth and resonance.
The combination of these two materials in the Grape Orange and Magnetic Jade switches exemplifies how the interplay between housing materials can shape the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top promotes a clear articulation upon releasing a key, the nylon bottom predominates the sound when a key is pressed down. This split between the two materials allows each switch to utilize their respective qualities, creating a balanced sound profile. Therefore, despite the identical top housing materials and similar nylon bottoms, users must ultimately experience the distinct auditory elements that each switch brings upon activation and release.
Weight
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch present interesting contrasts in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Magnetic Jade's 30 grams, making the Jade slightly heavier to press down initially. However, when considering the bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the Grape Orange's 50 grams. This means that while the Grape Orange provides a lighter typing experience with both lower actuation and bottom out forces, the Magnetic Jade offers a more pronounced resistance at the bottom of the keystroke. For users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Grape Orange is the preferred option, while those who seek a more substantial feel with a bit of extra push at the end of their keystrokes may find the Magnetic Jade more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Magnetic Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a bit more depth, making it potentially more satisfying for users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback when pressing a key. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade's shorter travel may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, it could impact the overall typing experience depending on personal preference; those who favor a more gradual feel might lean towards the Grape Orange, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness might prefer the Magnetic Jade.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Huano Grape Orange linear switch is not specifically described here, leaving an open question about its acoustic profile. However, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is known for its bright and clacky sound, which adds an engaging auditory feedback to the typing experience. If you prefer a keyboard that provides audio cues while you type, the Magnetic Jade is a clear front-runner. It’s worth noting that the final sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard case and keycap materials used, so the full acoustic experience can vary significantly.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Grape Orange switch offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, characterized by an ultra-low actuation force of 40g that makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch emphasizes a tactile feedback that is generally associated with hall effect switches, which may provide a more pronounced sense of engagement with each keystroke. This means that while the Grape Orange promotes speed and ease, the Magnetic Jade may cater to those who appreciate a little more physical responsiveness in their typing action.
In conclusion, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch excels in providing a light and fatigue-free typing experience, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch stands out for its bright sound and tactile feedback. If sound is an important factor for you, the Magnetic Jade offers a more pronounced auditory quality, whereas the Grape Orange focuses on effortless keypresses. Each switch appeals to different typing preferences, so your choice ultimately depends on whether you want a smooth, light touch or a more dynamic and engaging typing session.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Huano Grape Orange linear switches and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches largely depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you're looking for a switch that provides an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, especially for lengthy sessions, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice. With a low actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, it offers a smooth, linear feel that minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for those who frequently type or engage in extended gaming sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter keyboard without compromising on performance, the Grape Orange will serve you well. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a switch that offers a richer auditory feedback with a bright and clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade is your best bet. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams, it delivers a tactile feel that enhances typing precision and a unique acoustic profile, making it perfect for users looking to elevate their keyboard experience, especially for those using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Ultimately, your choice should align with the balance between tactile feedback, sound preference, and typing comfort you are seeking in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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