Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the HMX Perky, each offering distinct features for different user preferences. The Magnetic Jade switches are lauded for their bright and clacky sound, making them an ideal choice for those who prioritize acoustics and a superior typing experience, particularly in setups like the Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches provide a softer, glittery feel with nylon housings, offering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience while serving up a shorter travel distance for a more condensed keystroke. This makes the Perky switches appealing for users who prefer a quick, responsive touch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you seek an engaging auditory experience with the Magnetic Jade or an efficient typing performance with the Perky. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the HMX Perky exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This property stems from polycarbonate's higher stiffness, which allows for more clarity and resonance during keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting effects when integrated into keyboard designs. In contrast, the Perky employs a nylon top housing. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience compared to the brighter tones of polycarbonate. Consequently, users will notice a marked difference in sound dynamics, with the Magnetic Jade producing a more pronounced and vibrant sound and the Perky delivering a warmer, more subdued acoustic quality.
When examining the bottom housings of the two switches, we find that both the Magnetic Jade and the HMX Perky utilize nylon. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel—critical elements of the typing experience—will yield similar results. Since nylon is known for sound absorption, both switches will provide a rounded and rich sound profile at the bottom of the stroke, ensuring that despite the distinct top housing materials, users can expect a consistent, satisfying auditory feedback when the keys are fully depressed. This shared material choice reinforces the desirability of nylon in switch design, making both models appealing to users who appreciate a softer sound experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Magnetic Jade and the Perky highlights the importance of both the top and bottom housing in defining the auditory characteristics of a switch. While the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top contributes to a brighter sound, its nylon bottom aligns it with the Perky's deep and full tonal response at the bottom-out. This strategic blend of materials allows for varied auditory experiences, appealing to different user preferences. Those who favor a crisp, resonant sound profile will lean towards the Magnetic Jade, while users looking for a more subdued tone will find the HMX Perky more to their liking. Yet, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a rich, satisfying keystroke experience at the very core.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influence the typing experience. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Perky requires a heavier actuation force of 43 grams. This means that typists using the Magnetic Jade will find it easier to trigger keystrokes, making it ideal for long typing sessions, such as at work or during extended gaming. However, the situation is reversed when looking at the bottom out force; the Magnetic Jade has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the Perky's 50 grams. This indicates that while the Magnetic Jade provides a lighter touch for initial keystrokes, it requires more force to fully depress the key, contrasting the Perky's lighter bottom out feel. Ultimately, the Magnetic Jade offers a medium-light overall experience with its combination of forces, while the Perky presents a more consistently lighter touch throughout its operation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Perky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade switch allows for a more pronounced key press, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Perky’s 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed during fast-paced scenarios. While the difference in travel distances is minimal, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for switch responsiveness versus depth. If you prefer a balanced approach, the Magnetic Jade may be the optimal choice, whereas those who like quick, snappier keystrokes might lean towards the HMX Perky.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
The Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users seeking an enhanced auditory experience during typing. This lively sound is particularly suited for those who enjoy the acoustics of a well-tuned mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch delivers a more neutral auditory presence, which complements its softer, glittery nylon housing. Although the Perky's sound profile might be less pronounced than that of the Magnetic Jade, the overall sound experience will vary depending on the choice of board and keycaps, potentially yielding a satisfying acoustic experience for users who prefer a subtler approach.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade offers a superior typing experience characterized by a clicky tactile response, ideal for those who appreciate feedback with every keystroke. The switch's design ensures a responsive and engaging typing sensation, enhancing the overall experience. In comparison, the HMX Perky switch provides a deeply satisfying typographic feel with its softer housing, which results in a more condensed typing experience thanks to its shorter travel distance. This combination allows for a smooth and comfortable typing experience, making it more suitable for long typing sessions without the harsher feedback other switches might impart.
In summary, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences—one leaning towards a bright, engaging sound with a tactile feel, while the other offers a neutral sound profile paired with a smooth and satisfying typing experience. If you're searching for an auditory-enhanced switch, the Magnetic Jade would be an excellent fit; however, if you prefer a softer touch with a more understated sound, the Perky would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience, but your choice will align more closely with your auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and HMX Perky linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a bright, clacky sound along with a medium-light resistance that provides a satisfying tactile feedback, the Magnetic Jade would be an excellent choice, especially if you're looking to enhance the acoustics of your Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch is ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced audible feedback and a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter setup with a light actuation force and a condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky switches are perfect for you. They deliver a neutral yet deeply satisfying feel, making them great for long typing sessions where comfort is crucial. Additionally, with their shorter travel distance, you may find greater efficiency and speed, making them suitable for gamers or fast typists. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound, feel, and typing experience matter most to you when making your selection.
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