Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders stand out: the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Cherry MX Speed Silver. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright and clacky sound, making them a top choice for users seeking an enhanced acoustic experience, especially when upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Their unique technology promotes a superior typing experience that combines auditory feedback with tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches represent the pinnacle of rapid response within the MX lineup. Known for their linear action and minimal spring resistance, these switches are designed for gamers who require quick actuation, offering a competitive edge where every millisecond counts. While the Magnetic Jade excels in delivering an immersive auditory engagement ideal for typists and enthusiasts, the MX Speed Silver focuses on speed and efficiency, catering specifically to rapid gamers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique needs.
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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver, we find a significant difference in the choice of plastics for the top housing. The Magnetic Jade utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile noted for its clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which is typically associated with a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in material results in a disparity in the auditory experience as the Gateron’s polycarbonate enhances the brightness and sharpness of each keystroke, while Cherry's nylon fosters a broader, more rounded tone that can be characterized as softer.
Regarding the bottom housing, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon, which creates a common thread in their overall sound profile. Since nylon absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, both switches benefit from a deeper and fuller acoustic quality during typing. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that when pressed, both switches will provide a more muted bottom-out sound, contributing to a satisfying tactile experience irrespective of the distinctions in their top housings. As a result, while the auditory characteristics differ based on the top housing, the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a familiar and rounded sound when bottoming out.
In summary, the contrasting top housing materials emphasize different auditory experiences, while the shared nylon bottom housing contributes a cohesive element to the switches' performance. Users who prefer a sharper sound might gravitate toward the Gateron Magnetic Jade for its polycarbonate top housing, while those who enjoy a fuller sound may favor the Cherry MX Speed Silver's nylon top. Yet, regardless of the top housing's material, the nylon bottom housing will consistently provide a similar depth and resonance to the sound profile, unifying both experiences while catering to different preferences in typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, notable differences in actuation force become apparent. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, compared to the MX Speed Silver's heftier 45 grams, making the Magnetic Jade more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a satisfying tactile resistance when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is not specified, leaving that aspect unknown. This lack of information precludes a direct comparison on the bottoming out experience, but the knowledge of the Magnetic Jade's weight might suggest that it offers a more forgiving experience during intense use. Thus, if you're looking for a lighter feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the clear choice, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a stronger actuation that some typists might prefer for a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade switch provides a marginally deeper keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver's shorter travel distance can aid gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches cater to different preferences; if you favor an immediate response, the MX Speed Silver may be the better choice, but if you enjoy a bit more depth in your keystrokes, the Magnetic Jade would be more suitable. Thus, while both switches offer distinct advantages, the Magnetic Jade is the longer of the two at 3.5 mm compared to the 3.4 mm of the MX Speed Silver.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
The sound profile of the Gateron Magnetic Jade is characterized by a bright and clacky auditory experience, offering a lively and engaging noise that enhances the overall typing engagement. This makes it particularly appealing for users who enjoy acoustics that draw attention and create a distinctive atmosphere while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver presents a sound more aligned with a thocky and low-pitched signature, which is rich and satisfying, resembling a deep thud or soft knock. This gentler auditory feedback, while still distinct, can provide a more subdued experience compared to the sharper tones of the Magnetic Jade. However, it's important to note that the sound of any switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycap material.
Regarding their tactile qualities, the Magnetic Jade switches' feel remains unspecified, which means we cannot comment definitively on their texture or friction during use. The Cherry MX Speed Silver, however, is noted for its textured feel, marked by noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can add a tactile dimension to gameplay or typing, appealing to users who enjoy a little resistance and feedback as they engage with their keyboard. The difference in tactile feedback can significantly impact the typing experience, with the Speed Silver offering a more textured interaction compared to the unknown qualities of the Magnetic Jade.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Magnetic Jade boasts a bright, clacky sound that excites, while the Speed Silver delivers a deeper, thocky tone that may appeal to those seeking a rich auditory experience. On the tactile side, the Speed Silver offers a textured feeling during use, while the Magnetic Jade's tactile characteristics remain unclear. Ultimately, both switches will deliver engaging experiences, but the choice between them depends on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a switch that enhances your overall typing experience with a tactile, clacky sound and a medium-light bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value acoustic feedback and want a more enjoyable typing experience while working or gaming. On the other hand, if you require rapid response times for gaming and want instant key actuation with a smooth linear motion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver will serve you better. Its unique design minimizes spring resistance, making it ideal for players who thrive on quick reflexes and fast-paced action. In summary, if sound and feel are your priority, go for the Magnetic Jade; if speed and performance are what you seek, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the way to go. Your gaming or typing experience will significantly benefit from choosing the switch that aligns with your personal goals.
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