Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jwick Taro exemplify two distinctive approaches in design and typing experience. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright and clacky sound profile, making them an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard with superior acoustics and a dynamic typing feel. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switches appeal to those seeking a more subdued yet cozy experience, characterized by their snappy tactility and acute, crisp clacks, which cater to a balanced and enjoyable feedback. While the Magnetic Jade excels in delivering an engaging auditory experience, the Taro provides a smoother, more leisurely typing rhythm, appealing to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jwick Taro feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influences their sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the switches are engaged. This shared material choice means that users can expect a similar acoustic feedback when typing, characterized by clarity and resonance. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting, allowing vibrant colors to shine through. Thus, regardless of the specific switch, both the Magnetic Jade and Taro will deliver a comparable auditory experience at the top of the keypress.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches utilize nylon, a material known for creating deeper, fuller sound profiles. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to harder materials. This characteristic also means that the bottom housing typically influences the bottom-out sound and overall feel during typing more than the top does. Since both the Magnetic Jade and Taro utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they share this deeper acoustic feedback that enhances the tactile quality of the switches. This results in a balanced performance where the top and bottom characteristics contribute to a cohesive feel overall.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches yields a distinctive sound profile and typing sensation. With the polycarbonate upper providing a crisp and lively sound, coupled with the nylon lower delivering a rich and soft undertone, users will experience a well-rounded acoustic environment. The consistency in material choices between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jwick Taro promises that users will enjoy a similar sound and feel while typing, despite the differences in design philosophy or branding. This cohesive blend of materials ensures that both switches will resonate well in the keyboard community, meeting the preferences of enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Jwick Taro has an undefined actuation force, suggesting a different mechanism or a less defined trigger sensitivity, but its bottom out force is higher at 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This means that while the actuation force of the Taro remains a mystery, it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Magnetic Jade. Consequently, those who favor a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the heavier Taro, while those seeking less resistance and greater ease during extended use would likely prefer the lighter Magnetic Jade.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade measures at 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that for those who favor a quicker response time, the Magnetic Jade switch could be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which may cater to gamers looking for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Taro switch, with its longer travel distance, might provide a more satisfying depth for individuals who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, if you prioritize snappy responses, the Magnetic Jade is the better choice, while the Taro would suit those who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 profile of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch is characterized by a bright and clacky resonance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate an audible typing experience. This switch offers acute, crisp clacks with each keystroke, enhancing the auditory satisfaction of typing. In comparison, the Jwick Taro tactile switch boasts a more neutral sound, providing a moderate actuation force and a balanced acoustic profile suitable for various environments. While the Taro's sound is less pronounced than the Magnetic Jade, it still delivers clear and sharp feedback, ensuring a pleasing auditory experience for users. It's important to note that the ultimate sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the specific keyboard construction and keycap selection.
Regarding feel, the Magnetic Jade delivers a unique tactile experience that is well-regarded among enthusiasts, although its specific texture was not detailed in the provided information. On the other hand, the Taro switch combines buttery smoothness with a stepped tactile profile, which results in a fluid keystroke with distinct tactile feedback. This means the Taro switch features two noticeable stages during the keystroke, providing a satisfying sensation that can be particularly engaging for typists who appreciate a more nuanced tactile response. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade's lack of specific tactile description leaves its exact feel somewhat open to interpretation, but it is often praised for its overall typing quality.
In summary, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Jwick Taro switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Magnetic Jade excels in sound with its bright and clacky profile, while the Taro offers a neutral auditory experience combined with a smooth and enjoyable tactile feedback. Each switch caters to distinct user needs: the Magnetic Jade for those seeking pronounced audio cues, and the Taro for those who appreciate a more balanced sound paired with a comfortable, tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel, but both switches promise to enhance your typing with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch should ultimately depend on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound and a moderately light keystroke with a dynamic typing experience, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent option. It's especially suitable for users who value auditory feedback and are looking to enhance their typing experience, particularly on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. However, if you prefer a sturdier feel with a snappier response and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Taro is a fantastic choice. Its buttery smoothness and mild tactile feedback make it versatile and comfortable for a wide range of tasks, whether you're working from home or gaming. Ultimately, choose the Magnetic Jade for a lively and engaging auditory experience, and opt for the Taro if you seek a balanced, user-friendly feel with a more subdued sound.
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