Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence both performance and user experience. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent option for those looking to enhance the auditory aspects of their typing experience, particularly when upgrading their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch delivers not only a satisfying acoustic feedback but also improved typing dynamics that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is a clicky switch that excels in providing tactile feedback and a distinct audible click, making it a favorite among typists who crave a more traditional mechanical feel. While the Magnetic Jade caters to those prioritizing superior sound and a unique actuation method, the Dustproof Green is ideal for users who appreciate classic clicky responses and dust resistance for durability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Green utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which leads to notable similarities in their sound profiles. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This shared material choice ensures that both switches excel in situations where enhanced auditory feedback is desirable, especially under RGB lighting conditions where their translucent housing allows for vibrant visual displays. Users can expect consistency in the auditory experiences between these two switches when comparing their top sound characteristics, reinforcing the idea that polycarbonate’s acoustic properties contribute significantly to the perceived clarity and resonance.
Conversely, the bottom housings of both switches diverge, as they are made from nylon—a material known for its softer composition compared to polycarbonate. This choice in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile which complements the sharper tones produced by the top housing. The nylon's acoustic absorption qualities ensure that sound is muffled to an extent, creating a smooth and rounded sound experience when the key bottoms out. As a result, while the top housing helps deliver a crisp response at the key release, the bottom housing softens the impact, offering a nuanced sound experience that contrasts markedly with the harsher notes attributed to the polycarbonate alone.
In summary, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Green utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, yielding a consistent sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. However, the overlap in acoustic properties is balanced by their nylon bottom housings, which introduce depth and warmth to the overall auditory experience. The combination of these materials illustrates how the characteristics of each contribute distinctively to the feel and sound of the switches, reflecting the unique design philosophy behind each model. Thus, the interplay between polycarbonate and nylon in these switches provides users with both sharpness in sound and richness in tone, catering to a range of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there's a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, facilitating longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch has a much heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel and tactile feedback in their typing experience. Consequently, users seeking a lightweight and comfortable option would gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade, while those who prefer greater resistance and feedback will find the Dustproof Green more appealing. Overall, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, and the Outemu Dustproof Green is the heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, we find distinct differences. The Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Green has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, which is advantageous for gamers seeking quick responsiveness, as shorter distances often allow for faster actuation. Conversely, the Dustproof Green's longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile experience while typing. Thus, while both switches serve different user preferences, the Magnetic Jade may cater to enthusiasts looking for swift performance, whereas the Dustproof Green would suit those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke.
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 Green 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are celebrated for their bright and clacky acoustics, which can significantly enhance the auditory experience while typing. This vibrant sound profile makes them particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, while there is no specific sound description provided for the Outemu Dustproof Green switches, it is important to acknowledge that the sound produced can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material used. However, since they are a clicky switch, one could anticipate that they may produce an audible click sound similar to other clicky switches in the market.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches likely offer a smooth yet responsive typing experience, allowing for quick and precise keystrokes. This is particularly beneficial for users who type extensively or for gamers who require rapid input. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green events might provide a more tactile feedback with their clicky mechanism, giving users a satisfying sense of actuation that informs them when a key has been pressed. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and is often favored by typists who enjoy a more engaging feel.
In summary, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches shine in both sound and feel, providing a bright and clacky auditory signature along with a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches offer an unknown but potentially clicky sound and a more tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing dynamics, either switch could cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, both options may fulfill specific needs, making them worthy choices for different types of keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch should ultimately reflect your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice, especially for those who value a bright and clacky sound and desire an overall elevated typing experience. This switch is particularly suited for those who type for extended periods and enjoy a more tactile, responsive feel without the strain of heavy actuation forces. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams that requires more deliberate keystrokes, the Outemu Dustproof Green might be your go-to option. While it lacks the specific acclaim of the Magnetic Jade, its heavier resistance could offer a satisfying feedback that seasoned typists appreciate, especially if durability and a solid typing sensation are priorities for you. In essence, choosing the right switch comes down to weighing your comfort, sound preference, and the typing experience you desire.
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