Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the PH Studio Milk Tea offer distinct yet compelling experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Magnetic Jade switch, a Hall Effect switch, is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it an ideal option for those eager to enhance the auditory experience of their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its responsiveness and acoustic qualities provide a superior typing experience, appealing to users who value both feedback and sound. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch is a linear switch that strikes a unique balance with its fairly high-pitched yet muted sound. Manufactured by BSUN, this switch utilizes a Ly stem material that ensures each keystroke feels effortless, appealing to those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience. While the Magnetic Jade excels in feedback and acoustics, the Milk Tea offers a softer, more subtle approach. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$8.00 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches, it becomes clear that each switch utilizes different materials for its top and bottom housings, which ultimately influences their sound profiles. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when the key is released. This is contrasted with the Milk Tea's POM top housing, which is designed to produce a deeper, more muted sound. The inherent properties of these materials lead to distinct auditory experiences. While the Magnetic Jade may deliver a brighter sound due to the stiffer polycarbonate, the Milk Tea opts for a more subdued and unique acoustic quality through its POM material.

When examining the bottom housings, both switches again employ different materials but with slightly overlapping characteristics. The Magnetic Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is classic for its ability to absorb sound and provide a deeper, fuller sound profile. Conversely, the Milk Tea uses POM for its bottom housing as well, and while it also aims for a deeper sound, it stands out for producing an overall pleasing and distinctive acoustic output. Here, Nylon's sound absorption capabilities will clash with POM's nuanced sound, suggesting that the Magnetic Jade will emit a more rounded sound experience due to its softer nature, while the Milk Tea will yield refined yet muted auditory satisfaction.

Ultimately, despite the differences in materials, both switches can offer users a noteworthy typing experience, with their own unique sound profiles. Typing on the Magnetic Jade will result in a clearer, poppier experience due to the polycarbonate top, while the softer nylon bottom contributes to its deeper sound. The Milk Tea, however, presents an intriguing balance, combining its POM top and bottom for a consistently rich but muted sound profile. The variances in housing materials illustrate how the qualities of each can impact overall performance, yet both switches can cater to different preferences with respect to auditory appeal and tactile feedback. Hence, if someone prefers a switch that's less sharp but still enjoyable, they may find the Milk Tea to be more to their liking, while those who desire a crisper sound might gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, we notice some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it lighter compared to the Milk Tea's actuation force of 37.5 grams. This means that the Magnetic Jade allows for easier key presses, which can be beneficial for extended typing and gaming sessions where fatigue might be a concern. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a higher force of 55 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams, indicating that the Magnetic Jade provides a more substantial feel when bottoming out. Thus, while the Magnetic Jade is generally the heavier switch in terms of overall actuation and bottom out forces, the Milk Tea operates with a lighter touch at the actuation phase, offering a different typing experience. Users seeking a lighter keystroke might prefer the Milk Tea, while those looking for a more pronounced feedback during bottoming out may favor the Magnetic Jade.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, the Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milk Tea measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer more responsive keystrokes favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's travel distance offers a bit more depth, which can be more comfortable for users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, if you choose the Magnetic Jade, you can expect quicker response times due to its shorter travel distance, while the Milk Tea may provide a more enjoyable experience for those who appreciate a little more key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch is characterized by a bright and clacky auditory profile, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke noise. This sound is ideal for users seeking an engaging and lively typing experience, enhancing the overall feel of the interaction. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a unique high-pitched sound, which is also described as clacky, possessing a gentle yet resonant quality. The Milk Tea switch's high-pitched tone combines a crispness with a muted essence, resulting in a sound that strikes a balance between being present and subtle. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that can complement different typing styles and preferences.

When evaluating the feel, the Magnetic Jade switch's tactile nature is not overtly specified, but given its reputation for improving the typing experience, one can infer that it likely offers a robust and enjoyable sensation. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch excels in providing a polished and silky feel. These qualities suggest a smooth and effortless keypress experience due to the materials used and possibly factory lubing, which allows for reduced friction and enhanced key travel. While specific details regarding the Magnetic Jade's feel are not provided, the Milk Tea switch sets a high standard with its refined typing experience.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and PH Studio Milk Tea switches present unique sound signatures and typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade shines with its bright, clacky sound, while the Milk Tea offers a high-pitched, mellow tone that may suit those who favor a balance of presence and subtlety. Feel-wise, while the Magnetic Jade's characteristics may not be fully elaborated, the Milk Tea confidently provides a polished and silky typing experience, ensuring smooth key presses. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal sound and feel preferences, as they will lead to satisfying results in their respective ways.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and desired keyboard experience. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force, along with a vibrant and clacky sound that enhances your overall auditory experience, the Magnetic Jade will be an excellent choice for you. Its bright acoustics and the satisfying feedback at the bottom-out makes it particularly appealing if you seek a lively typing sensation, especially in a gaming or creative environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Milk Tea switch, with its lighter bottom-out force and silky feel, is likely the better option. Its unique sound profile blends high-pitched clarity with subtlety, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are a priority. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize the striking auditory presence of the Magnetic Jade or the gentle finesse of the Milk Tea switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

$8.00 per 10

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PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more