KTT Laurel vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Laurel and Gateron Magnetic Jade represent two distinct paths that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch known for its signature combination of responsiveness and comfort, boasting a full POM housing, short travel distance, and a long pole design that culminates in a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This makes it an enticing choice for those who prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a vibrant and clacky sound, enhanced by its hall effect technology, making it an ideal option for users looking to elevate their auditory experience while typing. With superior acoustics and a unique tactile feedback, the Magnetic Jade switch appeals to those who revel in the rhythm of their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches both feature distinct materials that influence their sound profiles, giving each switch its unique characteristics. The Laurel's top housing, made of POM (polyoxymethylene), produces a sound profile that is deeper and more muted, offering a pleasing auditory experience that many typists appreciate. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can dramatically shape the auditory experience, with POM yielding a warmer sound and polycarbonate providing a more resonant tone that is particularly favorable for RGB lighting thanks to its translucent nature.
Moving to the bottom housings, the KTT Laurel continues to use POM, contributing to the overall muted sound profile that characterizes the switch. Similarly, the Gateron Magnetic Jade features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This difference in materials means that while both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the Magnetic Jade may deliver a rounder sound during bottoming out due to the nylon's sound-absorbing properties, whereas the Laurel's POM bottom housing enhances its unique, muted characteristics. The contrasting qualities of these bottom materials play a significant role in how the tactile feedback and sound are perceived during use.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both switches creates a diversified sound and feel that caters to different preferences. Users seeking more muted, deep sound profiles may gravitate towards the KTT Laurel due to its POM materials, while those who prefer a crisper sound may lean towards the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate and nylon configurations. If one were to mix these two switches or select one based on the qualities of its individual materials, the results would reflect how each housing material’s unique properties impact the generated sound during keystrokes, showcasing the fundamental relationship between material selection and auditory experience in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Laurel switch features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light and suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for extended sessions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This results in a softer initial push but a firmer finish when fully depressed. While the Laurel offers a balanced typing experience, the Magnetic Jade's combination allows for quicker actuation but requires more effort to bottom out. Overall, the KTT Laurel is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade is lighter, appealing to those who favor a less resistant push on the keys.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch have identical travel distances of 3.5 mm. This similarity means that users pressing either switch will experience the same depth of key travel, contributing to a consistent tactile feedback across both options. Since both switches operate at the same travel distance, those seeking uniformity in their keystrokes will likely enjoy similar results in terms of actuation and overall feel. Therefore, neither switch is shorter or longer; they provide an equal experience when it comes to the distance traveled when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 sound profile of the KTT Laurel linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This tones down the noise, making it suitable for quiet environments while still being satisfying for the user. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches produce a bright and clacky sound, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that can enhance the enjoyment of typing for those who prefer louder, more expressive acoustics. This difference in sound makes each switch suitable for different environments: the Laurel leans toward subdued use, while the Magnetic Jade caters to those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Laurel is recognized for its snappy responsiveness. This quality is attributed to its medium-light actuation and unique structural design, which includes longer or dual-staged springs, resulting in a typing experience that is lively and engaging. The exact feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade, on the other hand, is not detailed, leaving a gap in the comparative analysis; however, those familiar with Hall Effect switches often appreciate a smooth and consistent behavior, which may offer a different sensation compared to the snappier profile of the Laurel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Laurel and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches present unique auditory and tactile attributes that cater to different preferences. The Laurel's low-pitched sound and snappy feel may appeal to those seeking comfort and responsiveness in a quieter environment, while the Magnetic Jade's bright sound provides a lively, clacky typing experience for users who crave auditory feedback. By understanding these distinctions, newcomers can make informed choices based on their personal typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a switch that feels snappy and responsive, with a lighter actuation force and a low-pitched sound profile that's pleasant and subtle, the KTT Laurel is an excellent choice. It caters well to those who value comfort and smooth key presses, ideal for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for something that offers a more dynamic auditory feedback with a bright, clacky sound, along with a slightly higher bottom-out force, then the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the way to go. This switch not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a superior typing experience, making it perfect for those who appreciate a more tactile and engaging sound while they work or play. In summary, your choice should be guided by whether you prioritize a lightweight and muted feel with the Laurel or a more pronounced and engaging sound experience with the Magnetic Jade.
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