Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Bsun Tomcat offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade is renowned for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy acoustic feedback and are looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch is primarily favored by typists who appreciate a tactile experience and enhanced sound while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch dazzles with its Ly stems, providing an exceptionally smooth keystroke, making it ideal for users who prioritize fluidity and consistency in their typing experience. The resonant sound it produces complements its linear feel, appealing to gamers and writers alike who seek a quieter yet still satisfying auditory response. With these diverse attributes, each switch offers compelling reasons to consider; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$8.00 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials employed in the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Bsun Tomcat switches are notably similar, particularly in their top housings. Both utilize polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant audio experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate distinct acoustic feedback when typing. Additionally, both switches feature a clear top housing, allowing for effective RGB lighting effects, as the translucency enhances the visual appeal and illumination intensity. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a comparable auditory and aesthetic experience, especially in setups where RGB lighting plays a significant role.

When we delve into the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as their material, leading to another similarity in sound profile. Nylon is characterized by its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound during typing, creating a plush and dampened auditory sensation that contrasts the sharpness of the polycarbonate top. Since both the Magnetic Jade and Tomcat feature nylon for their bottom housings, they will provide users with a similar tactile response and bottom-out sound, contributing to a richer typing experience.

In summary, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Bsun Tomcat are constructed from different materials for their top and bottom housings, the use of polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom is consistent across both models. This similarity ensures that users will enjoy a well-rounded sound profile that combines the crispness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon. Therefore, whether one chooses the Magnetic Jade or the Tomcat, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience with a balanced blend of sharpness and depth in sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Magnetic Jade features an actuation force of 30 grams, making it lighter and easier to press, which can be beneficial for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Magnetic Jade at 55 grams and the Tomcat slightly lower at 54 grams, suggesting that while the bottoming out experience is relatively comparable, the actuation experience differs significantly. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter switch for extended use might lean towards the Magnetic Jade, whereas those looking for a more impactful typing experience should consider the Tomcat.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we find that the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although both switches fall within the same general range, the Tomcat offers a marginally greater depth, allowing for a more pronounced tactile feedback during key presses. For gamers seeking faster response times, the Magnetic Jade's 3.5 mm may provide that sought-after quick actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial key press might prefer the Tomcat's longer 3.6 mm travel distance, as it can create a more satisfying typing experience. Thus, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Tomcat offers a slightly deeper feel compared to the Magnetic Jade.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound that can significantly enhance your typing experience, especially on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This resonant quality makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate audible feedback, giving a satisfying sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch produces a resonant sound profile as well, but the specifics of this sound are less defined. Both switches can contribute to a lively auditory experience, although the Magnetic Jade is particularly noted for its clarity and brightness.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is ideal for users looking for tactile feedback, designed to elevate the typing experience. It excels in providing a responsive sensation under the fingers, making every press feel intentional and satisfying. The Tomcat, featuring Ly stems, offers a super smooth typing experience, which might be preferred by those who prioritize fluid key presses without any resistance or tactile bump. While the Magnetic Jade leans towards a more tactile feedback experience, the Tomcat appeals to users seeking a buttery smooth action as they type.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Bsun Tomcat switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Magnetic Jade excels in creating a bright and clacky sound with tactile feedback, the Tomcat switches shine with a smooth action and a resonant audio profile. Depending on your typing style and auditory preferences, you might find that either switch could provide a satisfying experience, whether you value sound, feel, or a combination of both.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize an engaging auditory experience, the Magnetic Jade switch's bright and clacky sound, combined with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, makes it an excellent choice for enhancing the acoustics of your typing sessions. This switch excels for users seeking an invigorating typing experience, particularly if you are upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, if your focus is on achieving an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat switch, with its Ly stems and slightly lighter bottom out force of 54 grams, is ideally suited for you. It provides a more subdued, resonant sound profile while ensuring a gentle and fluid typing motion that can benefit long typing sessions or gaming. Therefore, consider what aspects of your keyboard experience matter most to you—the Magnetic Jade for vibrant sound and tactile feedback, or the Tomcat for silky smoothness and overall comfort.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

$8.00 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more