Bsun Jade Rosales vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Jade Rosales and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Jade Rosales, the result of a year-long refinement process by XY Studio, is well-regarded for its custom housings and stems, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and precise typing experience. If you appreciate a seamless keystroke without interruptions, this switch may be your perfect match. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out impression. This unique auditory profile appeals to users who want a smooth typing feel without compromising on feedback. While both switches fall into the linear category, they cater to different tastes — the Jade Rosales prioritizes a refined and uninterrupted keystroke, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a balanced blend of sound and smoothness. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Jade Rosales and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which means they share certain sound characteristics. The polycarbonate's rigid structure contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which enhances the overall auditory experience of the switches. This material is especially advantageous for RGB lighting since its translucency allows for vibrant illumination effects that showcase the lighting underneath effectively. Therefore, users of both switches can expect an enhanced visual aesthetic combined with a pronounced sound profile, leading to a consistent audio experience regardless of which switch they choose.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge in material selection and its resulting acoustic properties. The Jade Rosales employs a Custom Milky Material that is proprietary to BSUN, while the Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft absorption creates a rounded sound, as opposed to the clearer and resonant qualities provided by the proprietary material in the Jade Rosales. Consequently, when pressing a key, users will experience the effects of the nylon in the Semi-Silent Linear as a more muted and subdued bottom-out sound, whereas the Bsun's combination of materials may yield a slightly brighter acoustic profile.
As the top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall switch experience, users may notice a blend of sound characteristics resulting from these distinct materials. The key feel from the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out experience, while releasing the key predominantly reflects the qualities of the top housing. Thus, while the two switches share similarities in their top housing, they will impart different auditory feelings due to the unique properties of their respective bottom housings, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their preference for sound clarity versus sound absorption.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jade Rosales features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and providing a relatively easy keystroke experience suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear lacks specific information about its actuation force, but it does have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. Consequently, while the Jade Rosales is the lighter option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, the Jwick switch is heavier, implying a more substantial typing feel. If users prefer a more substantial switch, the Jwick may be favorable, but if they are inclined towards lighter switches for extended use, the Jade Rosales is the better choice.
Travel distance
The comparison of travel distances between the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch reveals that they differ slightly, with the Jade Rosales having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Semi-Silent Linear measuring 3.7 mm. This makes the Jade Rosales the shorter option, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a longer distance. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Jade Rosales may be more appealing, as it can facilitate quicker response times, making it particularly favorable for gamers. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel and deeper key presses might prefer the Semi-Silent Linear's longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales switch offers an undisclosed auditory profile, which leaves much to speculation for newcomers. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out with its innovative design, featuring a subdued topping-out sound that offers a whisper-quiet experience while maintaining a clacky bottom-out. This creates a unique sound signature that strikes a balance between noise and silence, making it more versatile for various environments, whether at home or the office. While the Jade Rosales switch's sound characteristics remain a mystery, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a clear advantage with its tailored acoustic qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Jade Rosales switch also lacks detailed descriptions, making it difficult to convey its tactile sensations. However, the Semi-Silent Linear switch showcases a blend of characteristics: it's described as mild for a gentler typing experience, snappy for responsive feedback, buttery for a smooth keystroke sensation, and polished for an overall refined finish. This combination ensures an engaging and enjoyable typing experience that caters to a wide range of users from beginners to seasoned typists. The unknown qualities of the Jade Rosales prevent a direct comparison, but the diversity present in the Semi-Silent Linear provides an appealing option for many.
In summary, while the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch leaves several qualities unaddressed—including both sound and feel—the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out through its distinctly lowered sound profile and multifaceted tactile experience. For those seeking a switch with known qualities, the Jwick Semi-Silent offers a responsible choice, balancing performance and adaptability. Without knowledge of the Jade Rosales characteristics, it becomes challenging to recommend it alongside the intentional design that defines the Semi-Silent Linear. As a newcomer to the mechanical keyboard world, exploring the Jwick switch may yield more predictable and satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a lighter touch and are seeking an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, the Jade Rosales is the better option. With its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, it’s ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and fluidity are paramount. This switch excels in providing a silky-smooth feel that many enthusiasts appreciate, making it a great choice for writers or gamers who prioritize speed and reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you require a more versatile and subdued sound profile, particularly in shared environments or offices, the Semi-Silent Linear is a compelling choice. The 62 grams bottom-out force offers a more balanced typing resistance, accommodating a variety of user preferences, while its semi-silent operation ensures you won’t disturb others around you. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a mild, yet snappy experience without the more pronounced sound often associated with traditional mechanical switches. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a smoother, lighter touch or a more balanced, quieter typing experience.
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