Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use, and two strong contenders in the market are the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches. The Magnetic Jade, recognized for its bright and clacky sound, stands out as an exceptional option for those looking to elevate their typing experience, particularly if you're upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its hall effect design provides a unique feel and sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a refined tactile sensation with a short medium-strength bump, appealing to those who appreciate a more deliberate feedback mechanism, especially developed with input from keyboard enthusiast Glarses. While the Magnetic Jade excels in acoustic performance and is ideal for a more expressive typing style, the Cherry MX Purple shines in providing precise tactile feedback suitable for both gaming and typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
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
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
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly impact their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant than alternatives using softer plastics. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. As a result, typing on the MX Purple RGB produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a duller and rounder auditory experience. The choice of materials reflects the intended user experience, with the Magnetic Jade catering to those who favor bright, clear audio cues while typing, and the MX Purple RGB appealing to users who prefer a softer, more muted sound.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it is important to note that both the Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon materials. This commonality means that both switches will produce a similar audio experience when pressed down, as nylon’s inherent properties lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As both switches feature nylon for the bottom housing, they will also share a certain level of tactile feedback when bottoming out, which is marked by the material’s sound-absorbing qualities. Therefore, while the top housing materials differ and will significantly influence the auditory characteristics upon release, the bottom housing will create a somewhat consistent feel in typing performance across both switches.
Overall, the combined use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced sound experience in both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches. The competition between polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing introduces contrasting sound profiles that cater to diverse preferences, while the nylon bottom housing standardizes the bottom-out experience in both models. Users seeking brighter audio feedback will likely find the Magnetic Jade preferable, while those who appreciate deeper tones may lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Ultimately, the interplay between the two materials in each switch emphasizes the unique auditory experience tailored to user preferences, resulting in varied typist satisfaction across the two models.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it well-suited for users seeking prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB requires a heftier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the Magnetic Jade has a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Cherry MX Purple RGB does not have a specified bottom out force available. As a result, while the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option overall, the absence of a bottom out force for the Cherry switch leaves a gap in comparative analysis. For users who favor a lighter switch for comfort, the Magnetic Jade is the better choice, while those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback might lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB despite the unknowns in bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, the differences are quite notable. The Magnetic Jade switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Purple RGB's travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade a more responsive choice, catering to gamers and those who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced and tactile feel when typing, as it provides greater depth when pressed. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that offers a balance between responsiveness and a more traditional keystroke experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better option due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are characterized by a bright and clacky acoustic profile, making them a lively option for typists who appreciate pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This sound profile can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy the audible satisfaction that comes with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a more refined auditory experience with a softer, more muted sound compared to the Magnetic Jade. While the Purple RGB switches do provide some tactile feedback that can produce a subtle sound during activation, they generally do not deliver the same level of brightness or clackiness as the Magnetic Jade. However, it's essential to remember that the final sound produced by either switch will also depend on external factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap materials.
When considering feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches deliver a superior typing experience with their tactile response that users often find appealing. The tactile bump is noticeable, providing satisfying feedback as you type, which can improve typing accuracy and enjoyment. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are designed with a short, medium-strength tactile bump, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While both switches provide a tactile experience, the Magnetic Jade may be perceived as more engaging due to its pronounced feedback.
In summary, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches have their distinct qualities, making them suitable for different types of users. The Magnetic Jade excels in sound with its bright and clacky tones, while offering a more engaging tactile feel. The MX Purple RGB, conversely, provides a more subdued sound and a refined bump that appeals to those seeking comfort and subtlety in their typing experience. Ultimately, if you're a newcomer to the world of mechanical keyboards, you'll find that choosing between these two switches largely depends on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, with each switch providing a unique typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that provides a bright and clacky sound, along with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, then the Magnetic Jade switches are a fantastic option. They are particularly suited for those who enjoy immersive typing experiences and want to enhance the acoustics of their keyboard, especially if you're upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump, then the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be more appropriate for you. This switch is developed for enthusiasts who appreciate a balanced tactile feedback in their typing without overwhelming force, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming where precision matters. Therefore, consider your own typing style, the sound you enjoy, and the type of tasks you'll be doing on your keyboard when making your decision, as each switch offers a unique sensation that can significantly influence your overall typing experience.
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