Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Mars can significantly influence your typing experience. The Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its distinctive bright and clacky sound, making it an ideal option for those who prioritize auditory feedback and enhanced acoustics. This switch is particularly well-suited for users looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards and achieve a superior tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch, categorized as a linear switch, brings an innovative design to the table with its unique POK stem and a housing blend of Nylon and POM. This allows for a smooth keystroke experience without the noticeable tactile bump found in other switch types, attracting gamers and typists who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing action. While both switches offer compelling features tailored to different preferences, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Mars differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting auditory profiles. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when typing. This clarity in sound is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during keystrokes. In contrast, the Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This material absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, leading to a more rounded audio experience. Thus, while the Magnetic Jade delivers a sound characterized by brightness, the Mars offers a more subdued and mellow auditory output.
The bottom housing materials for both switches further emphasize their differences. The Magnetic Jade employs a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic choice known for producing a rich and deeper sound profile similar to that of its top housing. This consistent use of nylon enhances the overall experience by ensuring the sound feels cohesive from bottoming out to releasing the key. In contrast, the Mars features a POM bottom housing, which is recognized for delivering a unique and pleasant sound, albeit on the deeper and more muted side. The difference in materials affects not only the sound but also the feel of each switch—the Magnetic Jade’s nylon bottom provides a richer response, while the Mars’s POM creates a distinct tactile sensation as well as sound.
Understanding these materials allows users to anticipate how they will experience each switch. The qualities introduced by the top and bottom housings interplay significantly when typing. For example, while the Magnetic Jade’s polycarbonate top creates a bright sound on release, the nylon bottom maintains a consistent depth. Conversely, the Mars’s nylon top and POM bottom lead to a predominantly warm and muted auditory experience. Therefore, if users desire a sharp tactile response and bright sound, the Magnetic Jade may be more appealing. However, for those seeking a deeper and more rounded feedback, the Mars stands out as an attractive alternative. In essence, the differences in housing materials shape the auditory and tactile experience, giving each switch its unique character despite some overlapping features inherent in their constructions.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Magnetic Jade requires a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing significant fatigue. In contrast, the Mars switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer. While the bottom out force of the Magnetic Jade is specified at 55 grams, the bottom out force for the Mars switch remains unavailable, leaving a gap in direct comparison. If we assess overall weight characteristics, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter of the two, potentially offering a more accessible option for users who value ease of activation, while those who prefer a heftier feel might favor the Mars switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, we find that the Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mars measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, whereas the Mars offers a slightly longer travel distance. For gamers or those who prefer responsive keystrokes, the Magnetic Jade may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel, potentially allowing for quicker response times. Conversely, users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress may find the Mars switch's longer travel distance to be more satisfying, offering a greater depth in each key press. Overall, while both switches are relatively similar, the minor variation in their travel distances may influence the choice between a snappier feel versus a deeper response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a bright and clacky tone, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize audible feedback while typing. This distinctive sound can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for users who enjoy the acoustic response of their keyboard. On the other hand, while the specific sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars switch are not provided, it’s important to note that the sound output of any switch can significantly vary depending on the keyboard plate and keycap materials used. Thus, while the Magnetic Jade offers a lively auditory experience, the Mars's sound qualities remain unspecified but could potentially differ based on these external factors.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch delivers a tactile experience that is generally favored by enthusiasts looking for a more responsive typing sensation. The nature of the Magnetic Jade's design contributes to its engaging feedback, allowing for precise keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch incorporates a POK stem and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which suggests a focus on smoothness and stability. However, the Mars's specific feel characteristics, such as whether it leans more towards a soft or firm actuation, are not detailed, leaving some ambiguity about how it compares directly in tactile feedback with the Magnetic Jade.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch shines in both sound and feel, providing a bright auditory feedback and a responsive typing sensation. The Gateron Mars switch, while offering an innovative design, has less clear attributes in terms of both sound and feel, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. Ultimately, both switches aim to cater to different preferences, and if sound and feel are critical, the Magnetic Jade is likely to provide a more established performance based on its known qualities, while the Mars may offer unique benefits that are yet to be fully explored.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences in sound and feel as well as the type of typing experience you seek. If you prioritize a bright, clacky sound and enjoy a medium-light feel—perfect for those aesthetically inclined to enhanced acoustics—the Magnetic Jade should be your go-to. Its 55 grams bottom-out force offers a satisfying tactile experience that many typists and gamers find invigorating. On the other hand, if you’re looking for innovation and a unique design, the Gateron Mars switch could be the right choice for you, with its POK stem and resilient Nylon and POM housing. While the Mars may lack a specified bottom-out force, its linear nature typically ensures a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback that some prefer. In essence, if you lean towards a more musical and engaging typing experience, go for the Magnetic Jade; but if you desire a silent, buttery smooth action for a refined touch, opt for the Mars switch. Hence, your choice should reflect your personal typing style, whether it leans toward auditory pleasure or seamless linear action.
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