Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence both your typing experience and the sound produced during use. On one hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the audio profile of their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch is particularly favored by typists who appreciate a superior tactile experience combined with captivating acoustics. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch caters to a different audience; it maintains the smooth, linear characteristics of the classic MX Red but introduces a muted sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments where quiet operation is essential. While both switches offer unique benefits—one focusing on enhanced auditory feedback and the other prioritizing silence—each serves distinct user preferences. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 the Cherry MX Silent Red, a notable contrast arises in the choice of materials for their top housings. The Magnetic Jade utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is recognized for its stiffer and more resonant properties. This results in a sharper, crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for those who enjoy a clear auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller, and somewhat muted audio feedback due to nylon's softer composition. This variance in top housing materials contributes significantly to the overall sound experience of each switch, demonstrating how material choices can impact auditory perceptions in different ways.
In contrast, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a consistent quality to the tactile experience and auditory response when the key is bottomed out. The nylon in both cases absorbs sound effectively, which lends a more subdued and rounded feel to the actuation. Therefore, while the Magnetic Jade and MX Silent Red differ in their top housing, they share similar characteristics in their bottom housing materials. This commonality leads to a somewhat harmonious sound profile when the switches are fully engaged, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of nylon's sound-dampening properties regardless of the differences in their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings in these switches creates a unique balance of sound profiles. While the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance, contributing a brighter note to the sound when releasing the key, the nylon bottom provides a soft, rounded tactile feedback. In contrast, the Silent Red's nylon top housing ensures a deeper sound while the nylon bottom helps maintain that full audio quality. Thus, while users may find distinct auditory experiences when engaged with either switch, the auditory and tactile characteristics of the bottom housing materials serve to unify and complement their performance, creating nuanced yet distinguishable experiences for typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation force can be observed. The Magnetic Jade requires a lighter actuation force of just 30 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, which is ideal for users who prefer extended typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. However, the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red remains unspecified, making a direct comparison in that aspect challenging. The Magnetic Jade also has a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a comfortable medium-light resistance. In summary, if you prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Magnetic Jade is the preferred choice, while if you appreciate a heavier tactile feedback, the MX Silent Red may be more suited to your preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the differences are clear. The Magnetic Jade switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Conversely, the MX Silent Red's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when typing or gaming. While both switches offer a satisfying performance, the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch delivers a bright and clacky auditory profile that resonates well with enthusiasts seeking an engaging typing experience. This switch is particularly favored for its pronounced acoustic feedback, which can add a layer of joy to the overall typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a significantly quieter experience while still retaining a pleasing sound quality. Known for being muted, it minimizes typical mechanical keyboard sounds, making it an exceptional choice for noise-sensitive environments. Although the Silent Red produces a thocky and low-pitched tone, it is ultimately designed to provide a more subdued output, catering to users who prefer discretion in their auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade switch tends to deliver a fluid typing experience that is tailored for pleasant engagement, though specific tactile characteristics are not provided in the information given. Contrastingly, the MX Silent Red switch features a textured feel, which can contribute to noticeable friction during use. This texture may provide some users with a more tactile feedback, enhancing their typing confidence, whereas individuals who prefer a smoother, friction-free experience might find the Silent Red’s texture a point of contention.
Overall, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Silent Red offer distinct strengths suited to different preferences and environments. The Magnetic Jade excels in producing a vivid and clacky sound, making it an ideal choice for those who relish auditory feedback, while the Silent Red caters perfectly to those seeking silence without sacrificing typing satisfaction. The differences in sound and feel between the two switches make it vital for newcomers to consider their personal priorities—whether it be the immersive soundscape of the Magnetic Jade or the understated elegance of the MX Silent Red—ultimately guiding them in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch hinges largely on your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you're seeking a vibrant and engaging typing experience with an auditory element to elevate your workflow, the Magnetic Jade is the ideal pick. With its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, it provides a tactile and clacky sound profile that enhances your interaction with the keyboard, making it perfect for those who enjoy a lively and expressive typing atmosphere. Conversely, if you prioritize a quieter working environment or gaming setup without sacrificing the familiar feel of a classic linear switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red is your best option. Designed for noise-sensitive settings, it offers a muted, thocky sound and a smooth linear action, ensuring that you can type or game without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value acoustics and a dynamic feel or a serene, silent experience while typing.
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