Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, renowned for its bright and clacky sound, excels in delivering an engaging and enjoyable typing experience, making it a top pick for enthusiasts looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf, while lacking in standout features, provides a reliable tactile response that many users appreciate for everyday typing and gaming. Each switch offers distinct advantages: the Magnetic Jade appeals to those prioritizing sound and acoustic performance, while the Maple Leaf caters to users seeking reliable tactile feedback without the bells and whistles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches demonstrate distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities derived from the plastics used. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to this clarity, allowing for a more resonant auditory experience. In contrast, the Maple Leaf employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and better at sound absorption. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving the key presses a more rounded quality. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, allowing light to pass through effectively, while the opaque nature of nylon provides a muted aesthetic with less light diffusion.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which results in a uniformity in sound dampening characteristics across the two designs. Since nylon is regarded as a classic switch housing material, its use in the Magnetic Jade's bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and fuller sound profile, which is a hallmark of nylon. This similarity in bottom housing means that both switches can deliver a consistent and satisfying typing experience regarding the bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect a comparable depth in sound when bottoming out on each switch, as both take advantage of nylon's inherent properties that absorb sound more effectively than harder materials.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the combined effect of their housing materials allows for a unique typing experience while still providing some commonalities. The Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top promotes a bright, resonant sound when releasing keys, whereas the Maple Leaf’s nylon top softens this sound further, offering a more subdued release. The resulting mix of materials creates a truly dynamic typing experience where one can achieve both clarity and depth, depending on the specific key press. This intentional design illustrates how the interplay between different housing materials can lead to distinct sound profiles while maintaining a cohesive overall experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Maple Leaf requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, the Magnetic Jade is categorized as medium-light, while the Maple Leaf is classified as medium-heavy. These differences in actuation and bottom out forces suggest that if you're looking for a switch that allows for a more effortless keystroke and lower fatigue, the Magnetic Jade would be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a firmer push and tactile feedback, the Maple Leaf would suit your needs better.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch reveals notable differences that can influence user preference. The Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer of the two options, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. For gamers or those seeking quicker response times, the Maple Leaf may provide a snappier, more immediate feel due to its shorter distance. Conversely, users who appreciate a more pronounced actuation might prefer the Magnetic Jade, as its longer travel distance could contribute to a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
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 Maple Leaf 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 switches produce a bright and clacky sound that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This distinctive sound profile makes them an excellent choice for users interested in a more expressive acoustic feedback, particularly appreciated by those who enjoy the lively ambience of a mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks a well-defined sound character, which makes it less noticeable in terms of auditory feedback, but it may still produce a sound that aligns more closely with standard tactile switches.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Magnetic Jade is renowned for its smooth actuation and satisfying tactile response, providing a premium typing experience that many enthusiasts seek. The hall effect mechanism contributes to an almost effortless press, making it enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Maple Leaf tactile switch is not specifically characterized in terms of its tactile sensation, leaving some uncertainty regarding its feel. Typically, tactile switches are designed to provide noticeable feedback, but without more information, it's impossible to gauge how it compares to the Magnetic Jade.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch stands out with its bright and clacky sound alongside a smooth and satisfying feel, making it a top choice for those who value acoustic and tactile feedback. The Outemu Maple Leaf, while lacking specific sound and tactile characteristics, may still serve as a solid alternative for users who prioritize a traditional typing experience without pronounced auditory elements. Ultimately, both switches may provide wonderful experiences, but the Magnetic Jade is likely to resonate more with enthusiasts seeking enhanced sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, actuation force, and typing feel. If you prioritize a brighter, clacky sound alongside a lighter actuation force for a more responsive typing experience, the Magnetic Jade will likely meet your needs, especially for gaming or fast typing where speed is crucial. Its acoustic profile is designed to enhance your overall experience, making it a standout option for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust, tactile feedback with a bit more resistance in your keystrokes, the Maple Leaf is a better fit. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams allows for a more deliberate typing style which some typists find advantageous for reducing accidental keypresses. The choice ultimately depends on whether you want the quick and light engagement of the Magnetic Jade or the solid and weighted feel of the Maple Leaf, allowing you to customize your setup according to your specific typing or gaming style.
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