Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often face the dilemma of selecting between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Huano Strawberry Latte, each catering to distinct preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, known for its bright and clacky sound, is an excellent choice for those upgrading their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard, providing a superior typing experience along with enhanced acoustics. This switch stands out for its unique Hall Effect design, making it ideal for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte boasts a super smooth action thanks to the latest molds from Huano, presenting a balanced sound profile that isn't too quiet or overly resonant. This linear switch is perfect for users seeking a consistent and effortless keystroke, making it easier for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. While both switches offer appealing characteristics, the decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smoothness and usability. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Huano Strawberry Latte switches reflect distinct approaches to achieving specific sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates clearly, thanks in part to its stiffness. This characteristic makes it suitable for those who prefer a more resonant auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, delivering an appealing aesthetic dimension for those who seek a visually striking keyboard. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, which, while also geared towards a smooth performance, prioritizes durability more than sheer auditory clarity. POK's friction coefficient suggests a slightly smoother action, but its tonal output tends to fall in the clacky and vibrant category rather than the crispness offered by polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound. The use of nylon in both cases contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile that is more muted compared to the harsher sounds often produced by harder plastics like polycarbonate. This similarity in their bottom housing composition means that both switches will deliver a harmonious, soft-bottom-out experience characterized by rounder and softer auditory feedback. This alignment in material choice results in a consistency in the tactile feel when typing, allowing users to expect a similar fullness in sound as they engage either switch.
In summary, the combination of materials used in these switches results in a nuanced typing experience. While the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top produces a finer, more resonant sound profile, the Huano Strawberry Latte's POK housing leans into a smoother and more durable structure, albeit with a less pronounced auditory clarity. However, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, providing users with a cohesive deeper sound regardless of the switch type. This blend of different materials ultimately enables users to customize their keyboard experience based on their preferences for sound and feel, ensuring satisfying results regardless of the choice made between the two options.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, it's clear that they offer different typing experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which makes it suitable for those who prefer a softer, more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 35 grams but features a lower bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that while the initial push is heavier, users will bottom out sooner, which could lead to a more pronounced tactile feedback. Overall, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Huano Strawberry Latte, being heavier in actuation, may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry Latte has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade can provide a more responsive feel, catering to gamers who often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when pressing down on keys. Thus, while both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, users looking for faster responses might lean toward the Magnetic Jade, while those favoring a more pronounced key press would likely prefer the Strawberry Latte.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are characterized by a bright and clacky tone that resonates well when typing, making them an excellent choice for users seeking a more pronounced acoustic feedback from their keyboard. This sound profile is especially appealing for those who enjoy an audible typing experience and is particularly enhanced on Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches offer a more balanced sound profile, falling between quiet and overly resonant. This makes them versatile for various environments, producing a sound that is smooth and refined without being too intrusive, allowing for a satisfying auditory experience without overwhelming the user.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Magnetic Jade provides a unique typing sensation that enhances the overall experience, though specific characteristics of this feel were not detailed. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte is noted for its super smooth operation, thanks to the latest molds used by Huano. This smoothness translates to a seamless typing experience that many users will appreciate, making it a great option for extended typing sessions or gaming where responsiveness is key. Together, these qualities of tactile feedback create distinct experiences for the user.
Overall, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Magnetic Jade appeals to those who desire a lively and engaging auditory experience, while the Strawberry Latte provides a more subdued yet smooth and balanced typing sensation. Understanding these differences can help newcomers choose the switch that best aligns with their typing style and preferences, creating a more personalized and enjoyable keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, the decision largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're after a typing experience that is both bright and clacky, and you enjoy the satisfying feedback of a medium-light action, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for gamers and typists who appreciate improved acoustics and a more pronounced sound profile, making it ideal for those upgrading their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter feel, the Strawberry Latte is your go-to option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it's perfect for long typing sessions where a light touch is favorable, making it less fatiguing over extended use. The balanced sound profile of the Strawberry Latte provides a moderate acoustic experience that won't overwhelm your environment, appealing to those who prefer a subtler auditory feedback. In summary, consider the Magnetic Jade for a more dynamic auditory experience and tactile engagement, while the Strawberry Latte is perfect for a lighter, smoother feel during prolonged use.
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