Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its bright and clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking to enhance the acoustics of their typing experience, particularly on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), a linear switch featuring Ly stems, promises a super smooth and consistent keystroke, delivering a more subdued sound profile that many typists and gamers appreciate for its reliability in fast-paced scenarios. While both switches provide unique benefits—clackiness and superior acoustics with the Magnetic Jade versus the smoothness and resonance of the Tomcat (Heavy)—each caters to different user experiences and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$8.00 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a striking similarity in their choice of materials for the top housing, as both utilize polycarbonate. This material is well-known for its stiffer properties, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. Polycarbonate’s translucency is advantageous for those who wish to complement their keyboards with RGB lighting, as it enhances visual effects and vibrant illumination. Since both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, users can expect consistent sound characteristics related to the top-end frequencies, likely producing a similar, clear, and resonant auditory experience.

In contrast, both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, which introduces distinct auditory qualities. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, is less rigid and inherently absorbs more sound. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a rounder and more dulcet typing experience. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel during keystrokes, users of both switches can expect a warm, muffled tone that softens the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. The combination of nylon at the bottom and polycarbonate on the top ensures a harmonious blend of characters: crisp sounds on key release from the polycarbonate while maintaining a deeper tone from the nylon during activation.

Ultimately, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) blend the vibrancy of polycarbonate in the top housing with the softness of nylon in the bottom, producing a well-rounded typing experience. The similar materials used result in comparable auditory profiles, particularly in the context of sound produced during a keystroke. The distinctions between the two switches lie primarily in their branding and perhaps minor construction choices, but the core auditory and tactile results will remain alike, appealing to enthusiasts who value this combination of clarity and warmth in their typing encounters.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Magnetic Jade switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly during extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Consequently, the Gateron Magnetic Jade can be classified as the lighter option, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) stands as the heavier choice. This contrast in force influences the typing experience, with the Magnetic Jade providing a smoother, less strenuous keystroke and the Tomcat delivering a firmer, more grounded feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we see that the Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) features a marginally longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Tomcat switch provides a slightly deeper experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more grounded feel during keypresses. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade aligns with the trends in modern gaming, where quicker response times can enhance performance. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid actuation, the Magnetic Jade may be more suitable, while the Tomcat could be favored by those who appreciate the satisfying depth associated with a longer travel distance. Overall, while the difference is minimal, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers the longer travel distance, making it a better choice for users seeking a more substantial key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch is known for its bright and clacky auditory profile, which enhances the overall typing experience and adds a lively character to your Keystrokes, making it a favorite among those seeking distinct acoustics. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch produces a resonant sound that can also offer an engaging auditory experience, though it is likely to be more subdued and less percussive than the Magnetic Jade. The differences between the two suggest that the Tomcat may provide a more mellow typing sound, while the Magnetic Jade caters to those who appreciate a pronounced acoustic feedback.

When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switches are noted for offering a superior typing experience, though specifics about the tactile feedback are not provided. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is characterized by its Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is a significant trait for users who prefer a seamless keystroke without the interruption of tactile bumps. This suggests that while the Magnetic Jade might give a more varied tactile sensation, the Tomcat will excel in smoothness, catering to different preferences among typists.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to somewhat different preferences. The Magnetic Jade excels in producing a lively, bright sound with a potentially unique feel, making it suitable for users who value auditory feedback. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offers a smoother action paired with a resonant sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize a seamless keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether a typist prefers a more pronounced, clacky sound and varied tactile feedback or a smooth and resonant typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch boils down to your personal preferences in typing experience, sound profile, and key feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a bright, clacky sound that enhances the acoustics of your typing, the Magnetic Jade switch is an excellent choice, especially suited for those using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Its 55 grams of actuation force make it ideal for faster typists who enjoy a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you desire a heavier switch with a smooth, resonant sound and a more tactile engagement, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 64 grams of actuation force may serve you better. This switch is optimal for those who appreciate a slightly more deliberate keystroke and a robust sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether it's prioritizing speed and acoustics or density and smoothness.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect

$8.00 per 10

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Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more