Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Brown present two distinct yet appealing options for different typists. The Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright, clacky sound, making them an excellent choice for those who crave an engaging auditory experience while typing. Ideal for upgrading keyboards like the Wooting Hall Effect, these switches deliver a superior feel and acoustics, attracting users looking for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized by their subtlety; they provide a relatively light typing force paired with gentle tactile feedback and a more subdued auditory response. This makes them perfect for individuals who prefer a quieter yet responsive feel, ideal for both typing and gaming without disturbing those around them. Both switches offer unique advantages based on personal preference and typing style; 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
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Brown switches present a distinct contrast that significantly affects their acoustic and tactile properties. The top housing of the Magnetic Jade is crafted from polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality makes it particularly effective for showcasing RGB lighting, as the clear material allows for ample light diffusion. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown features a nylon top housing that is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper, more rounded tonal experience. This inherent difference in material properties influences not only the auditory feedback but also the overall typing experience offered by each switch, marking a notable divergence in their design philosophy.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Brown utilize nylon, reinforcing their similarities in this respect. Nylon, known for its sound-absorbing characteristics, contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile regardless of the switch brand. Therefore, when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel—which is primarily attributed to the bottom housing—users will find a comparable experience between the two switches, regardless of the differences in their top housings. This shared material at the bottom serves to create a sense of continuity in the overall acoustic environment while further highlighting the variations brought by the respective top housing materials.
In terms of the overall switch performance, the combination of differing top housing materials leads to unique user experiences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top provides a crisper auditory feedback that may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke response, particularly when combined with RGB lighting aesthetics. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown, with its nylon top, prioritizes a rounder and more muted sound, catering to users who appreciate a softer auditory experience. While the nylon bottoms unify the tactile sensation to some extent, the distinct characteristics of each switch highlight how the top housing materials can shape the nuances of typing performance and user preference, ultimately leading to different overall experiences despite shared elements in their designs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some noteworthy differences in actuation forces while their bottom-out forces are the same. The Magnetic Jade switch requires an actuation force of 30 grams, making it considerably lighter than the Cherry MX Brown, which requires 45 grams to actuate. This lighter actuation force of the Magnetic Jade can be advantageous for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long work hours or gaming sessions. Both switches, however, share the same bottom-out force of 55 grams, indicating that they yield a similar resistance when pressed down fully. For those who like a heavier feel, the Cherry MX Brown offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Therefore, while both switches provide a medium-light bottom-out feel, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option overall, making it suitable for users seeking less resistance, whereas the Cherry MX Brown caters to those who appreciate a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it's clear that the Magnetic Jade features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm reflects varying preferences among users; those who favor responsiveness and quicker actuation might lean towards the Magnetic Jade, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate faster key presses. In contrast, the MX Brown, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial feel and feedback from their switches, providing a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches deliver a bright and clacky auditory experience, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a lively and engaging typing sound. These switches provide a crisp, high-pitched tone that stands out, making your keystrokes more noticeable and satisfying. In contrast, Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized by their more subdued and bassy sound profile. While they also produce a pleasant noise when typing, it's a low-pitched, mellow beat that adds a sense of subtlety to the overall experience. This difference creates two distinct auditory realms; the Magnetic Jade offers an energetic clack that invites attention, while the MX Brown immerses you in a more contained and low-key acoustic environment.
In terms of feel, Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide a smooth experience that caters to users seeking a superior typing interaction. Their design emphasizes a responsive action that enhances the overall tactile feedback when typing, allowing for quick and confident keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are designed with gentle tactility, offering a structured feedback that is both subtle and noticeable. However, they also come with a textured sensation, which may introduce a certain level of friction that some users find pleasing while others may deem it less desirable. This characteristic of the MX Brown provides a unique typing experience that combines light resistance with tactile cues, setting it apart from the generally smoother feel of the Magnetic Jade.
In summary, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Brown switches excel in delivering unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade shines with its bright and clacky sound, making each keystroke feel exciting, while providing a smooth feel that enhances typing efficiency. The Cherry MX Brown, though less obtrusive in sound, captivates users with its bassy undertones and textured feedback, creating a more subdued yet engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lively auditory atmosphere paired with a smoother feel or a more tactile and subtle experience with a comforting sound profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch will largely depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a more vibrant auditory feedback and a clackier typing experience, the Magnetic Jade is your best bet, especially if you’re looking to enhance the acoustic quality of your setup. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams ensures a responsive feel that, paired with its lively sound profile, creates a dynamic typing atmosphere ideal for gaming or typing for extended periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued environment with gentle tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Brown is the switch for you. It offers a smoother and slightly scratchy texture, delivering balanced tactile sensations without being overly noisy, making it ideal for quieter office settings or environments where concentration is key. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only the acoustic and tactile preferences but also the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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