Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, known for their bright and clacky sound, stand out in their category, particularly appealing to those who prioritize superior acoustics and an enhanced typing feel, making them an excellent upgrade for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switches are a classic option that offers a slightly heavier and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience characterized by responsive keystrokes and a satisfying auditory depth. While the Magnetic Jade excels in providing a lively auditory experience, the MX Red is favored for its well-rounded performance and textured feedback, which many users find comforting. 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Red switches, it is clear that the key differences lie in the top housing. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stems from polycarbonate's characteristics as a stiffer plastic that allows for clearer resonance, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red's top housing is made of nylon, which is a softer plastic that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's sound absorption qualities create a more rounded and subdued auditory experience when typing, showcasing a stark contrast to the brighter tones produced by the polycarbonate.
On the other hand, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Red share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both switches utilize nylon. This shared material results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed down. The softer nature of nylon ensures that the bottoming out experience is characterized by a duller sound, allowing users to enjoy a more muted feedback on key presses. Given that both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, one might anticipate that they would deliver comparable experiences in terms of sound and feel during activation.
Ultimately, while the top housing materials dramatically influence the auditory experience of each switch, the commonality in the bottom housing means that users can still expect a certain level of consistency in bottom-out sound and feel across both switches. The differing profiles created by the top housings would particularly shine when lifting the keys, emphasizing the importance of top housing materials in crafting the overall tactile and auditory experience. As such, those seeking the sharper tones of the Magnetic Jade may find it beneficial for specific uses, like RGB setups, while others might prefer the warmer, muted response of the Cherry MX Red for a quieter typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, notable differences in their actuation forces highlight their respective tactile experiences. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red comes with a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which can provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push against their fingertips. Regarding bottom out forces, the Magnetic Jade has a defined bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force remains unknown, leading to uncertainty about its deeper key travel feel. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter experience, the Gateron Magnetic Jade may suit you better, while the Cherry MX Red is more appropriate if you desire a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Cherry MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, establishing it as the longer switch. This difference can influence user experience significantly; the shorter travel of the Magnetic Jade may provide a faster response time, appealing especially to gamers who prefer a more responsive feel. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Red can offer a more substantial keypress experience, which some users favor for its tactile depth. Ultimately, your choice between the two will hinge on whether you prioritize quick actuation or a more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 hall effect switch produces a bright and clacky noise, which enhances the overall typing experience with its energetic acoustics. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch delivers a deeper sound profile, often described as "thocky," creating low-pitched and bass-heavy tones that provide a robust auditory feedback when activated. While both switches aim to offer satisfying auditory experiences, the clackiness of the Magnetic Jade contrasts notably with the more restrained, mellow sound of the MX Red, catering to different auditory preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Regarding feel, the Magnetic Jade switch has a distinct tactile quality that many users praise for its smoothness, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and providing a seamless keystroke experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red switch is characterized by a textured feel, where users may notice some friction during actuation. This textured sensation may appeal to those who prefer a bit more engagement from their keystrokes. The disparity in tactile feedback between the two switches means that users will experience different sensations under their fingers, influencing their overall typing comfort and satisfaction.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Red switches present a compelling juxtaposition in both sound and feel. The Magnetic Jade thrives on a bright, clacky sound profile and a smooth tactile experience, while the Cherry MX Red focuses on deeper auditory feedback with a textured feel. These differences highlight how personal preferences play a significant role in selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as both options contribute unique qualities to the typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to individual taste in acoustics and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and Cherry MX Red linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific use case. If you prioritize an engaging auditory experience and are looking for a switch that delivers a bright and clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade is likely your best bet. This switch's medium-light actuation force of 55 grams makes it suitable for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience without excessive strain on their fingers. Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional, slightly heftier feel with a deeper, more satisfying sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be your go-to option. The robust thocky noise and textured feel of the MX Red can provide the tactile feedback some users desire, making it a solid choice for both typing and gaming. Your ultimate decision will hinge on whether you value superior acoustics and lightweight actuation or favor a classic, deeper sound and satisfying weight in your keystrokes.
Mentioned in this article
