Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown present two distinct yet compelling choices for typists and gamers alike. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, renowned for its bright and clacky sound, is a Hall Effect switch that excels in delivering an exceptional typing experience with improved acoustics, making it an excellent upgrade for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch features a tactile feel, providing gratifying feedback with each keystroke while being designed to withstand dust and debris, offering durability alongside comfort. While the Magnetic Jade may appeal to those seeking vibrant audio feedback and superior responsiveness, the Dustproof Brown is ideal for users who value tactile sensation and long-lasting reliability. 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
65g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is notable that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances resonance and clarity. The translucence of polycarbonate also allows for a visually appealing effect when RGB lighting is used, making both switches equally appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. Therefore, when it comes to the top housing, users can expect similar auditory outcomes between the two switches, providing that they leverage the benefits of RGB lighting and other elements tied to sound clarity.
Diverging from their similarities at the top, the bottom housing of these switches offers a contrast, as both the Magnetic Jade and the Dustproof Brown use nylon for their respective bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile, which absorbs more sound than the stiffer materials used in other switches. This characteristic is significant because it directly affects the typing experience; users will notice a rounder and mellower sound upon bottoming out the switch. The combined use of nylon for the bottom and polycarbonate for the top housing allows for an interesting duality in sound quality - while the top delivers higher frequencies, the bottom enriches the overall profile with low-end depth.
In summary, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches share a polycarbonate top housing that produces a similar sound profile, their nylon bottom housings work to create a fuller auditory experience. This contrast between the two housings highlights how each material contributes uniquely to the overall sound and feel of the switch. For users looking for a consistent auditory experience when typing, both switches will deliver similar results on account of their combined materials. However, it is the interplay between the stiffer polycarbonate on top and the softer nylon below that ultimately defines the character of each switch, allowing for a uniquely satisfying typing experience regardless of the brand.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. This disparity in force means that the Magnetic Jade switches are easier to actuate, while the Outemu switches provide more resistance, which can enhance tactile feedback. Consequently, users who prioritize comfort during long use should gravitate towards the lighter Magnetic Jade, whereas those seeking a firmer feel might prefer the heftier Outemu Dustproof Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Dustproof Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This difference highlights the design preferences in switch mechanics; the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade is ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times, whereas the Dustproof Brown offers a more traditional depth that some users may find more comfortable and satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for responsiveness versus tactile 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch delivers a bright and clacky sound that adds a lively acoustic profile to your typing experience. This sound signature makes it particularly suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming, enhancing the overall engagement with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have specified sound characteristics; therefore, the auditory experience may vary considerably depending on the specific keyboard setup and keycap materials used. It’s noteworthy that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the environment in which it is used, which means that users could potentially achieve similar results with custom configurations.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switch is designed to provide a distinct tactile response, which helps in delivering a satisfying typing experience suited for those who prefer feedback with every key press. This can enhance typing accuracy and overall enjoyment during extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown also aims to offer tactile feedback but may cater to a more muted experience, focusing on comfort rather than pronounced tactility. This means that while both switches prioritize tactile responses, the degree and nature of that feedback can significantly differ, appealing to users of varying preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch offers a bright and engaging sound combined with a distinct tactile feel, making it a standout choice for users seeking an immersive typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks detailed sound characteristics but may offer a different tactile feeling that emphasizes comfort. Choosing between these two switches largely depends on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, and while they can lead to similar outcomes in terms of usability and enjoyment, the specific experiences will ultimately appeal to different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a bright and clacky sound profile that enhances the acoustics of your keyboard, the Magnetic Jade is the clear winner. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it suitable for those who favor a lighter touch, resulting in a quicker and more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Brown switch might be the better option for you. Although it lacks specific notoriety for sound, its tactile feedback can provide an enjoyable typing experience, especially for users who appreciate a more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, consider your desired sound, feel, and typing dynamics to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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