Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Orange Sea each present distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is renowned for its bright, clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their acoustic experience while typing. It's particularly favored by users of Wooting Hall Effect keyboards who desire a superior tactile response and sound quality. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea, which is a linear switch, offers an impeccably smooth typing feel and a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prioritize a seamless and quiet typing experience. While both switches provide unique benefits that enhance the overall typing experience, the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Orange Sea switches share notable similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a strong and translucent plastic, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate helps to create a clear and resonant audio experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a pronounced key sound. This similarity also enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially for those who use RGB lighting, as the clear design of the polycarbonate allows light to shine through more effectively, resulting in a vibrant and colorful keyboard setup.
In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, unleashing a distinct sonic characteristic that complements the properties of polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and producing a duller, rounder tonal quality compared to the sharper notes generated by polycarbonate. This design choice is intentional, as the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom creates a hybrid sound profile: the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the sound and feel when the key bottoms out. Users can expect a balanced auditory experience, blending the crispness from the top with the depth from the bottom.
Ultimately, the unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Haimu Orange Sea switches allows for an enriching and multifaceted typing experience. While the top housing contributes to a bright and clear sound, the bottom housing introduces warmth and depth, resulting in a harmonious interaction when the keys are pressed. The familiar use of these materials ensures that users will notice consistent qualities between the two switches, allowing for comparative evaluations of sound and feel based on personal preferences. Regardless of the distinct brands, the sonic results achieved through this combination will likely yield similar experiences for those looking for a balanced and enjoyable typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams paired with a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option overall. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch requires a heavier actuation force of 37 grams, although it has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that the Magnetic Jade is lighter in terms of the force needed for both actuation and bottoming out, allowing for a more effortless typing experience, which can be advantageous for prolonged use or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea, while still light, offers a slightly more substantial feel during actuation, making it suitable for those preferring a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, we see a slight difference: the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Orange Sea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade is the shorter option, and if you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing keys, it could be the better choice for you. On the other hand, the Orange Sea, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial depth that some users find satisfying, especially if abruptness in keystrokes isn't preferred. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the 0.1 mm difference can influence user experience based on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79.
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 renowned for their bright and clacky acoustics, which enhance the auditory feedback you experience while typing. This characteristic makes them particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound during their keystrokes, which can contribute to a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth type feel coupled with a neutral sound signature. This translates to a more subdued auditory experience, perfect for users who prefer a quieter environment while still enjoying a quality typing experience. It’s important to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switches provide an exceptional typing experience that is distinct and satisfying, primarily due to their unique design aimed at maximizing tactile feedback. This can be particularly rewarding for typists who appreciate a responsive switch that offers a lively sensation with each press. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are characterized by their remarkably smooth action across the key travel, delivering a linear feel that is ideal for users seeking a seamless typing experience without any noticeable bump or resistance. Both switches offer their users enjoyable tactile experiences, though they cater to different preferences in terms of responsiveness versus smoothness.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches stand out with their bright, clacky sound and responsive feel, making them great for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Haimu Orange Sea switches provide a smoother, quieter option with their neutral sound signature and linear feel, appealing to those who favor a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your keyboard journey, depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences in typing feel, sound, and force exertion. If you appreciate a moderately heavier switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams that offers a distinctive bright and clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade would be ideal, especially for enhancing your auditory experience while typing. This switch also provides a unique tactile sensation that many find enjoyable and satisfying during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of just 45 grams, the Haimu Orange Sea switches might be more to your liking, offering that impeccably smooth typing experience alongside a neutral sound signature that minimizes distractions. This could be particularly advantageous for those who prioritize speed and comfort without much auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you want that punchy auditory presence and tactile feedback of the Magnetic Jades or the silky smoothness and subtlety of the Orange Seas—each catering to different styles and preferences in your keyboard experience.
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