Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver stand out for their unique characteristics and distinct typing experiences. The Magnetic Jade, recognized for its bright and clacky sound, is a Hall Effect switch that excels in providing a superior auditory feedback and tactile sensation, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its superior acoustics and engaging typing experience make it perfect for those who enjoy a lively keystroke. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver is an all-POM linear switch designed for speed and smoothness, featuring a short travel distance and a feather-light touch that appeals to gamers and typists alike who prioritize quick actuation and a less noticeable auditory profile, characterized by its thocky sound. While both switches offer distinct advantages—mechanical satisfaction and acoustic enhancement from the Magnetic Jade versus the rapid responsiveness of the Smoothie Silver—each caters to different preferences in typing and usage scenarios. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches utilize distinctly different materials for their top housing, leading to contrasting acoustic characteristics that can greatly influence the typing experience. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for clearer resonance when keystrokes are registered. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver incorporates a top housing made from POM (Polyoxymethylene), which gives it a deeper, more muted sound profile. Consequently, users who prefer an energetic and bright auditory feedback may favor the Magnetic Jade, while those who appreciate a more subdued and mellow tone could lean towards the Smoothie Silver.
When we examine the bottom housing of both switches, we find that they are constructed from different materials, yet share similar philosophies regarding sound production. The Magnetic Jade’s nylon bottom housing is known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves effectively, leading to a more rounded auditory experience. In comparison, the Smoothie Silver's POM housing also provides a unique sound that falls on the deeper side, analogous to the influence of nylon on the Magnetic Jade. This means that while the top housing defines the initial sound upon key release, the bottom housing in both switches ensures a muted and rich sound during bottoming out, presenting a sense of continuity in auditory experience despite the differences in base materials.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials affects the overall acoustic profile of each switch. While the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top delivers a bright resonance contrasting with the muted characteristics of its nylon bottom, the Smoothie Silver's POM top and bottom confidently provide a more uniform sound experience that appeals to those who favor deeper tones. When tested side by side, users can expect the Magnetic Jade to produce a lively sound during key release and a fuller sound upon bottoming out, whereas the Smoothie Silver offers a consistent and pleasant muted experience throughout. Thus, despite their differences, both switches can yield enjoyable typing performances, tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation forces. The Magnetic Jade features a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. However, the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver remains unknown, while the Magnetic Jade reaches a bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Smoothie Silver may provide a different tactile feedback by potentially not having a defined bottoming out capability, which some users may find either advantageous or limiting. Overall, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, while the Smoothie Silver is the heavier one, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that they differ slightly. The Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Smoothie Silver measures at 3.4 mm. This indicates that the Magnetic Jade offers a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressed. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver may be more appealing, as it enables faster actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more tactile experience may gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade for its greater depth. Ultimately, while both switches present relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches, the Magnetic Jade is the more pronounced option, making it ideal for users who appreciate a little extra distance in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 sound produced by the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches is bright and clacky, which can really elevate the auditory experience when typing. They are particularly well-suited for those looking to enhance the acoustics of their setup, especially if you're using them with a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches generate a thocky sound that adds a deeper resonance to each keystroke. Both sound profiles cater to different preferences, with the Magnetic Jade leaning towards a more pronounced and lively sound, while the Smoothie Silvers’ thocky characteristic delivers a more subdued yet satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switches provide a unique tactile experience that many users appreciate for its responsiveness. The switches are designed to offer a distinct feedback that enhances the typing experience, making them a favorite among those who favor a more interactive keyboard feel. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver switches excel in their unparalleled smoothness, allowing for exceptionally quick and effortless keystrokes. Their feather-light touch means you can type rapidly without any unnecessary resistance, making them ideal for users who prioritize speed and efficiency over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches present distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you're looking for a lively, clacky sound paired with a responsive tactile feel, the Magnetic Jade is the way to go. On the flip side, if you prefer a deeper thocky sound combined with unparalleled smoothness and speed, the Smoothie Silver will serve you well. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your individual typing style and sound preferences, as both switches offer unique benefits that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you value a bright, clacky sound and a typing experience that feels slightly tactile, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams provides a satisfying feedback for those who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing. This switch is ideal for gamers or typists who prioritize acoustics and a distinctive auditory experience, especially if you're upgrading or building a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a quick response with minimal resistance and a silent, smooth experience, the Smoothie Silver is perfect for you. With its feather-light touch and short travel distance, it excels in fast-paced typing scenarios, making it a great option for competitive gamers or those who type at high speeds without requiring much effort. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you: the engaging sound and feel of the Magnetic Jade or the rapid actuation and effortless smoothness of the Smoothie Silver. Your choice will shape your overall experience, so make sure it aligns with your style and preferences!
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