Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and KTT Mint present two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are lauded for their bright and clacky sound, making them an excellent choice for those aiming to enhance the acoustics of their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. These switches offer a superior typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate responsive feedback and a bit of auditory flair. In contrast, the KTT Mint switches provide a satisfyingly smooth linear typing experience characterized by their long pole stem, resulting in a poppy thockiness that many users find pleasurable. Their low-pitched, neutral, and polished feel contributes to a light and fleeting typing sensation, appealing to those who prefer a more understated acoustic environment. Ultimately, each switch caters to different typing preferences and needs, but these generalities only scratch the surface. Let’s dive a bit deeper so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the KTT Mint, it's evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's properties as a relatively stiffer plastic. The translucency of polycarbonate also plays a significant role for users interested in incorporating RGB lighting into their keyboard builds, enhancing the visual aesthetic. Since both the Magnetic Jade and the KTT Mint share this material in their top housing, one can expect a similar clarity in sound and lighting effects when using either switch, making them a great match for RGB setups.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is constructed from nylon, which introduces a different auditory characteristic to the overall switch experience. Nylon is known for its softer consistency, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder acoustics when the key is bottomed out. Given that both the Magnetic Jade and Mint employ nylon in their bottom housings, users can anticipate a consistent type feel and sound when bottoming out, regardless of which switch they opt for, thus making either choice suitable for a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the top housings of the Magnetic Jade and KTT Mint switches create a familiar sound profile due to their shared polycarbonate material, it is the nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper, more rounded sound and feel upon bottoming out. Users can expect a harmonious combination of both materials' effects across the switches. The top housing influences the release sound, while the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the actuation feel. Therefore, even though there are distinctions in their contributions to sound and typing experience, the similarities in material choices yield comparable performance attributes for enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces are quite similar. The Magnetic Jade switch requires a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to trigger, which is advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. However, both switches share a relatively close bottom out force, with the Mint at 53 grams and the Jade at 55 grams, indicating that while the actuation experience differs, users will feel similarly when bottoming out both switches. Overall, for those who favor lighter switches, the Magnetic Jade is the better choice, whereas the KTT Mint offers a heavier touch for those who seek more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it's clear that the two switches cater to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter of the two, while the Mint features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a slightly deeper feel. Those who favor quicker response times, such as gamers, may gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade for its reduced travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, users who appreciate a more substantial key press may prefer the KTT Mint, as its longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 switches are characterized by their bright and clacky acoustic profile, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This sound signature can contribute to an engaging and enjoyable typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate the lively interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, the KTT Mint switches produce a low-pitched and neutral tone, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience. Although the sound is less prominent, this makes the Mints versatile, suitable for a variety of settings, whether at home or in a professional environment. Ultimately, while the Magnetic Jade delivers a more exciting sound, the KTT Mint provides a balanced option that still performs well in multiple contexts.
When considering the feel, the Magnetic Jade switches are often favored for their superior tactile feedback, which offers a vibrant typing experience. However, specific characteristics such as their exact pole stem design are less clearly defined. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switches provide a mild and polished feel, described as gentle and smooth. With reduced friction due to refined finishes or lubing, these switches enable a seamless key travel that enhances comfort over extended typing sessions. While the exact feel of the Magnetic Jade isn't specified, the smoothness inherent in the Mint creates an approachable typing experience for most users, offering a more consistent sensation with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the KTT Mint switches present distinct auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade excels in delivering a bright, clacky sound and potentially engaging feel, providing a more dynamic typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Mint’s low-pitched sound and mild, polished touch offer a versatile and refined alternative, suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your priorities—whether you prefer a lively auditory profile or a smooth, gentle touch is essential when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value acoustics and enjoy a brighter, clackier sound profile, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice, especially if you're upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, combined with its distinctive audio feedback, makes for a dynamic typing experience that can enhance both gaming and typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience, the KTT Mint switch is more suitable. With its slightly lower bottom-out force at 53 grams, it delivers a light and fleeting feel that is complemented by a low-pitched sound, allowing for a satisfying yet gentle experience. This makes it a versatile option perfect for both home offices and quieter environments. In summary, the choice between these switches should reflect what aspects of typing and sound you prioritize most, paving the way for an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your style.
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