Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads between unique characteristics and personal preferences. For instance, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, stands out with its bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent upgrade for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. This switch is particularly favored by those seeking an elevated typing experience and enhanced acoustics. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, classified as a linear switch, captivates users with its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, delivering a lively and crisp keystroke that feels satisfying to type on. While the Magnetic Jade offers a compelling audio experience tailored for a distinct typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro provides a seamless touch that many gamers and typists cherish. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize acoustic feedback or a refined tactile experience. 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
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, a striking difference emerges between the top housings. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and clarity, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This characteristic allows it to produce a higher-pitched sound when keys are released, making it well-suited for setups that prioritize sound clarity, especially in conjunction with RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro employs a nylon top housing, which is traditionally softer, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. This absorption of sound results in a duller and rounder acoustic profile that can create a more subdued and warm typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a gentler auditory feedback.
Both switches, however, share a commonality with their choice of bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both the Magnetic Jade and the V3 Piano Pro. This similarity ensures that, regardless of the differences in the top housing, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon used. The nylon material in both cases contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, reinforcing the overall typing experience with a softer acoustic feedback as the keys bottom out. Therefore, even though the top housings deliver distinct auditory characteristics, the nylon bottom housing effectively provides a cohesive auditory profile that both switches can capitalize on.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housings contributes to a unique typing experience in each switch. While the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top creates a sharper sound upon key release, the nylon bottom mitigates this with a fuller tone when bottoms out. Conversely, the V3 Piano Pro maintains a rounder sound with its nylon top, while still benefiting from the fullness offered by the same nylon bottom housing. Consequently, users can expect a blend of sound profiles, where the top housing's material plays a vital role in the release sound while the bottom housing solidifies a consistent, deeper auditory foundation.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, notable differences in actuation force emerge, while their bottom out forces are the same. The Magnetic Jade switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a lighter touch, potentially enhancing typing comfort during extended use or intense gaming sessions. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches share an identical bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that when pressed all the way down, they provide a similar tactile feedback upon bottoming out. Consequently, while users might enjoy the lighter actuation of the Magnetic Jade for longer typing endeavors, those seeking a stronger response will likely gravitate toward the Akko V3 Piano Pro.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress performance when using either switch, as both switches will require the same amount of distance to be fully engaged. As a result, switching between these two options should yield comparable results in terms of typing experience, making them equally effective for users who prefer a consistent travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches deliver a bright and clacky auditory experience. This sharp and percussive sound profile makes them especially enjoyable for users who appreciate an engaging and lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches also offer a snappy sound signature, characterized by a crisp and lively quality with a hint of resonance. Both switches share a bright sound profile, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts who enjoy an audible feedback with their keystrokes. However, the Magnetic Jade emphasizes an even brighter, clackier sound, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a more balanced resonance, creating a distinct experience that may resonate differently depending on personal preference and setup.
In terms of feel, the experience between the two switches also differs notably. The Magnetic Jade switch is celebrated for its outstanding typing experience, though specific descriptors for its tactile feel are not detailed here. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro shines with a multitude of sensory qualities, including a bouncy nature that provides spring-like feedback, a creamy texture that ensures a smooth and buttery touch, and a polished finish that reduces friction for a seamless key travel. The combination of these attributes delivers a uniquely pleasurable typing sensation that invites both speed and accuracy. If one prefers a lively and smooth feel during typing sessions, the V3 Piano Pro stands out distinctly.
In summary, while both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer appealing auditory experiences and tactile qualities, they cater to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade favors a bright and clacky sound, whereas the V3 Piano Pro provides a snappy, resonant auditory experience along with a rich array of feel qualities, including a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky texture. Ultimately, a keyboard enthusiast's choice would depend on whether they prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch will greatly depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you're looking for an auditory delight with a bright and clacky sound that enhances your typographic experience, the Magnetic Jade switches would be the better option for you. They're especially suited for those who appreciate a vibrant acoustic profile while typing, making them ideal for creative work or casual gaming where sound feedback can elevate your experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and lively tactile feedback combined with a snappy sound that adds a dynamic flair to each keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro should be your go-to choice. Its bouncy and silky feel can enhance productivity and comfort, particularly for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue might otherwise set in. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and tactile feedback are most important to you, as both switches provide a medium-light actuation force and unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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