Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preferences in feel and sound. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches stand out for their bright and clacky acoustics, making them an excellent option for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard with a lively and dynamic typing experience. These switches are particularly favored by those who prioritize superior acoustics and tactile feedback. Conversely, the KTT Pine switches offer a different experience altogether: featuring a medium-heavy resistance and a buttery smooth action, these linear switches are designed for effortless key travel, thanks to their polished, factory-lubed finish. Those who appreciate a quieter, more refined typing feel will likely lean toward the KTT Pine for its low-pitched, creamy characteristics. Each switch brings unique advantages to the table: the Magnetic Jade for its engaging sound and tactile experience, and the KTT Pine for its smoothness and ease of use. 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
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and KTT Pine switches, there is a notable similarity in the composition of the top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer structure, which allows for better sound resonance. Furthermore, the clarity of polycarbonate enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as this material tends to showcase vibrant lighting effects more effectively. Hence, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of the sound profile when typing, as both share this polycarbonate trait in their top housing.
The comparison becomes more intricate when looking at the bottom housings of these two switches. The Magnetic Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Pine has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, contrasting with the sharper characteristics brought by polycarbonate. This means that while both switches will deliver a clear sound from the top housing, the overall feel and sound profile will differ based on the bottom housing material. For instance, the Magnetic Jade will offer a rounder sound due to its nylon, whereas the KTT Pine's polycarbonate bottom will maintain a higher-pitched sound, leading to distinct auditory experiences.
Ultimately, the combined effects of these housing materials dictate the overall typing experience of each switch. When pressed, the Magnetic Jade will produce a fuller bottom-out sound thanks to the nylon bottom, while the KTT Pine will deliver a crisper response from its polycarbonate bottom housing. As the sound and feel are influenced differently by each housing material, users can expect varying levels of vibrancy and depth within their typing experience. Therefore, while there are substantial similarities in the top housing, the differences in the bottom housing create unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the KTT Pine linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, which cater to different typing preferences. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a more effortless typing experience, perfect for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Pine has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This additional resistance provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push when typing. Therefore, the Magnetic Jade switch is the lighter option, while the KTT Pine is the heavier one. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely depend on personal typing style and comfort preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Magnetic Jade boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Pine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Magnetic Jade the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the KTT Pine’s longer travel distance provides a more substantial depth, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for speed versus tactile enjoyment.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 evaluating the sound profile of the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch, it is best described as bright and clacky, creating an engaging and lively auditory experience. This sounds particularly appealing for those who appreciate a pronounced sound when typing. In contrast, the KTT Pine Linear switch provides a deeper, bassy tone characterized by a low-pitched sound profile. The rich sound of the Pine gives a more subdued auditory feedback compared to the bright sharpness of the Magnetic Jade. It’s important to note that the actual sound produced can vary based on factors such as the keyboard plate material and the type of keycaps used, so both switches could sound different when paired with alternative components.
As for the feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade’s tactile feedback is not explicitly described, but it aims to enhance the typing experience overall. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear switch excels with its buttery smoothness and creamy texture, promising a fluid keystroke experience that minimizes friction thanks to its polished, factory-lubed finish. This effortless typing characteristic makes the Pine particularly inviting for users who prefer a smoother operation, akin to gliding across the keys. Therefore, the Pine offers a distinctly different tactile sensation when compared to the Magnetic Jade, which may appeal more to users looking for that smooth and seamless interaction.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the KTT Pine Linear switches present unique sonic and tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Magnetic Jade's bright, clacky sound and focus on enhanced typing experience contrast with the KTT Pine's rich, bassy sound and silky smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your desired sound and feel; if you prefer a lively, pronounced auditory feedback, the Magnetic Jade is the way to go, while the KTT Pine is ideal for those seeking a smoother, quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the KTT Pine linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific preferences for sound and feel during your typing experience. If you prioritize a bright, clacky sound with an engaging acoustic profile and enjoy a slightly lighter bottom-out force, the Magnetic Jade is your best bet. These switches are particularly well-suited for enthusiasts looking to elevate the auditory aspect of their keyboard, especially in setups where sound plays a key role in immersion and user experience. In contrast, if you prefer a more subdued yet deeper sound, characterized by a bassy, low-pitched output, coupled with a smooth and creamy feel during typing, the KTT Pine linear switch would serve you well. With its medium-heavy resistance and polished, factory-lubed finish, it provides that effortless, buttery experience many typists crave. Therefore, you should consider your typing habits and desired sound personality; whether you lean towards the clacky and bright or the smooth and deep can guide you toward the right switch to enhance your keyboard experience.
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