Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Purple offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Magnetic Jade stands out as a Hall Effect switch, renowned for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it a stellar choice for those who prioritize acoustic feedback and a premium typing experience, especially for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple, categorized as a tactile switch, provides a unique feel with noticeable resistance at the actuation point, appealing to users who favor pronounced tactile feedback without the noise level of a clicky switch. Choosing between these two options ultimately depends on whether you prefer the auditory satisfaction and advanced technology of the Magnetic Jade or the tactile responsiveness of the Dustproof Purple. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Dustproof Purple share notable similarities in their housing materials, specifically in their top housings, both made from polycarbonate. This commonality results in extremely comparable sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the overall sound clarity, which is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy RGB lighting since the translucency of the material allows for a vibrant light display. Therefore, when utilizing either switch in a keyboard with backlighting, users can expect similar aesthetic effects, achieving a brightly lit and visually appealing setup that showcases the enchanting glow of RGB under the polycarbonate housings.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in the material of their bottom housings. The Gateron Magnetic Jade opts for nylon, a softer plastic that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. This material absorbs sound more effectively, creating a sound that is duller and rounder, enhancing the tactile feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, thus delivering a similarly richer sound experience despite the polycarbonate top. This consistency across the bottom housing allows both switches to provide comparable auditory characteristics when bottoming out, which might attract users who value that deeper, resonant sound.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the materials used in both the top and bottom housings reveal how sound profiles can be shaped by varying degrees of resonance and absorption. In the case of the Magnetic Jade and Dustproof Purple switches, the polycarbonate tops ensure a clear auditory response upon release, while the nylon bottoms bolster the overall depth of the sound upon key presses. This synergy allows keyboard enthusiasts to find satisfaction in either switch, as the contrasting qualities of the materials interact to create a unique yet comparable typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing coupled with the nylon bottom is a blueprint that produces consistent results in sound quality and tactile feedback, making both switches viable choices for different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch to the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which is ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Additionally, the Magnetic Jade's bottom out force of 55 grams is noticeably lower than the Dustproof Purple's bottom out force of 65 grams. This difference means that the Magnetic Jade may provide a more comfortable experience for users seeking a lighter touch, whereas the Dustproof Purple caters to individuals who appreciate a stronger keystroke response. Therefore, potential users can choose based on their preference for either lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch measures 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance indicates that the Magnetic Jade offers a more responsive experience, making it an attractive choice for gamers who prioritize quick key presses. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple's longer travel distance may appeal to users who favor a more substantial feel and tactile feedback when typing, which can enhance the overall typing experience for those who prefer depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you seek quicker response times, the shorter 3.5 mm distance of the Magnetic Jade would be more suitable, whereas the more traditional 4 mm distance of the Dustproof Purple may cater to those desiring a richer, more pronounced tactile response.
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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch is characterized by a bright and clacky auditory profile that brings life and a satisfying acoustic quality to typing. This sound can enhance the overall experience, making it appealing for those who enjoy a more lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, there is no specified description for the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, which leaves its acoustic properties somewhat ambiguous. However, it's essential to note that the perceived sound of any switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps, potentially allowing for a similar auditory experience if paired with the right components.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a superior tactile experience, often appreciated for its smoothness and responsiveness, catering to those who prioritize a pleasant typing experience. Conversely, the contextual information does not provide any specifics regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, leaving a gap in comparison. Generally, tactile switches like the Dustproof Purple are expected to offer a noticeable bump, but without explicit details, it's challenging to assert how they compare directly to the Magnetic Jade's tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch excels in acoustic and tactile qualities, providing a bright sound and a smooth typing experience that many keyboard enthusiasts seek. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple lacks specific details in both sound and feel, making it difficult to establish a comprehensive comparison. Despite this, it’s possible that with the right setup, the Dustproof Purple could still deliver satisfactory results, though it may not achieve the same level of acoustic and tactile enjoyment as the Magnetic Jade. When selecting a switch, it's important to consider personal preferences and potential setups, as these factors ultimately influence the final typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a keyboard experience that is not only bright and clacky but also offers a medium-light touch with a bottom-out force of 55 grams, then the Magnetic Jade switches would be an excellent fit for you. Their acoustic qualities enhance the overall typing experience, making them particularly appealing for those who enjoy a lively sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel while typing, with a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple switches may be more suitable. While they lack a defined specialty in sound compared to the Jades, they can provide a satisfying tactile response for users who appreciate a more grounded and robust typing experience. Ultimately, consider your desired sound profile, tactile feedback, and how much actuation force you want to exert when making your decision; each switch has unique merits that can cater to different typists.
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