Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Magnetic Jade boasts a bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent upgrade for those seeking an immersive auditory experience while typing; its hall effect design enhances both feedback and acoustics, positioning it as the ideal choice for typists looking for a lively and engaging interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i presents a more subdued yet tactility-rich typing experience, striking a balance between gentle feedback and a muted sound profile. This lightweight switch caters to long hours of comfortable typing, appealing to those who prioritize a quiet environment without sacrificing the satisfaction of each keystroke. Both switches offer unique benefits—whether you crave an exhilarating auditory experience or a professional, understated touch—each serves a different typing lifestyle. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and Gateron Mini i switches showcase contrasting approaches to housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a crisper auditory feedback when typing. The clear nature of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for mechanically inclined users seeking not only performance but aesthetics. In contrast, the Mini i opts for a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile that encapsulates a rounder auditory experience, making it more subdued yet rich. While both switches serve different auditory preferences, they highlight the unique characteristics of their respective housing materials.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a commonality as both are constructed from nylon. This results in similar contributions from the bottom housing to the overall typing experience. The nylon, being a softer material, absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile that will enhance the overall auditory experience for users of both the Magnetic Jade and Mini i switches. The tactile feel is also affected by the bottom housing; with both using nylon, the sensations upon bottoming out will parallel in depth and fullness. This means that regardless of the differing top housings, the deeper sound and tactile feel from the nylon bottom will create a more consistent experience when pressing both switches.
Ultimately, the relationship between the various housing materials and their respective sound profiles illustrates how a combination of materials influences the overall performance of a mechanical switch. The varying characteristics of the polycarbonate and nylon in the top housings yield distinctly different auditory experiences, while the shared nylon in the bottom offers a cohesive element that contributes to the overall feel and sound across both models. Users can expect a unique auditory response and tactile experience when using each switch, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference in the pursuit of the ideal typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Mini i has a heavier actuation force of 40 grams, making the Magnetic Jade more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel, which can facilitate longer typing sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade again has a heavier bottom out force at 55 grams compared to the Mini i’s 50 grams. This means that while the Mini i is lighter in terms of overall actuation, the Magnetic Jade offers a stronger push sensation when bottoming out. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the heavier actuation force of the Mini i may appeal to them, while the lighter Magnetic Jade is ideal for extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a user prefers the lighter feel of the Magnetic Jade or the more pronounced resistance of the Mini i.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we find that the Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mini i measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing experience. The Magnetic Jade, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel, which some users prefer for a satisfying keypress. On the other hand, the Mini i, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker, more responsive feedback, making it ideal for gamers and fast typists. Overall, if you seek a deeper and more deliberate keypress, the Magnetic Jade is the better choice, while the Mini i offers a more immediate response for those who prioritize speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade switch delivers a pronounced and bright clacky sound that can be quite delightful for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This quality makes it particularly appealing to users looking for a more dynamic acoustic environment, enhancing the overall typing experience on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch features a more neutral and muted sound profile, designed to cater to office-centric environments where loud clacking could be disruptive. Its quieter operation ensures that users can type comfortably without drawing attention, making it suitable for shared spaces or professional settings.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switch offers a compelling tactile experience, although specific characteristics aren't detailed. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i switches provide a bouncy and responsive feel, characterized by easy-to-press action that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Their mild tactile feedback ensures that the experience remains approachable for a wide range of users, while the snappy response contributes to a lively typing sensation. The subtle characteristics of these switches make them particularly user-friendly, offering gentle resistance without overwhelming the typist.
In conclusion, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Mini i switches cater to fundamentally different user preferences and environments. The Magnetic Jade switch excels in providing a vibrant sound and engaging feel, making it suitable for enthusiasts and those who enjoy active acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Mini i focuses on a balanced, subdued auditory experience paired with effortless typing comfort, ideal for professional settings. Understanding these qualities can help newcomers choose the switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience and environment, whether they prefer an energetic auditory experience or a tranquil office-friendly option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your intended use and environment. If you love a bright, clacky sound and are aiming for a more immersive typing experience, particularly in a gaming or creative context, the Magnetic Jade will likely be your go-to with its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams. This switch excels in providing a lively auditory feedback that enhances engagement, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate the acoustics and tactile feedback that comes with each keystroke. On the other hand, if your primary focus is on comfort during long hours of typing, particularly in a quiet office or shared space, the Gateron Mini i is the better choice. With its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and subtler sound profile, this switch offers a gentle, easy-to-press feel while maintaining enough tactile feedback to keep your typing experience enjoyable without disturbing others. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize an expressive and vibrant typing sound or a smooth, quieter operation for professional or shared environments.
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