Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options that stand out are the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, known for their hall effect technology, deliver a bright and clacky sound that enhances the overall acoustics of your typing experience, making them an ideal choice for enthusiasts who crave auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches strike a balance between auditory delight and tactile satisfaction. They offer a deep, resonant "thock" upon bottoming out, combined with a whisper-quiet topping out, making them perfect for users who appreciate a refined sound profile. Furthermore, the tactile bump in the U4Tx provides a luxurious typing experience that many find irresistible. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for sound and feel—whether you desire the lively acoustic presence of the Magnetic Jade or the sophisticated, muted notes of the U4Tx. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, significant differences arise, particularly in the top housing composition. The Magnetic Jade employs a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This attribute not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound generated but also makes it a visually appealing option when paired with RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows light to pass through effectively. In stark contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for its top housing, which produces a richer, deeper sound profile due to its inherent softness. This variation in materials reflects the differing auditory experiences offered by each switch, with the polycarbonate leaning towards bright and clear tones while the Gazzew blend fosters a more mellow ambiance.
The bottom housings of the two switches also reveal notable similarities and differences that further influence their overall sound profiles. The Magnetic Jade features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for its capacity to absorb sound, thereby providing a deeper, fuller auditory experience that strikes a more rounded tone. Alternatively, the U4Tx employs the same "boba plastic" blend in its bottom housing as well, contributing to a similarly rich and deep sound profile, attributed to its softness. This shared material between the two switches helps ensure that even with differences in the top housing, there is a consistency in the bottom-out sound that deeply resonates across both typing experiences. Thus, the bottom housing of each switch will play a crucial role in how the overall sound and feel are perceived during use.
Overall, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their top housing materials, yielding distinct tonal characteristics on top, their similarities in bottom housing create a captivating balance. The contrasting attributes of the two different top housings mean that users can expect a varied experience — one that blends sharper clarity with a more profound, rounded depth. Together, the resultant auditory experience when utilizing these switches showcases how both the choice of housing materials and their interactions truly define the personality of each switch. Users can tailor their typing experience according to their preference for either a crisper sound or a richer sound without sacrificing the depth offered by the bottom housing in both models.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features an actuation force of 30 grams, making it lighter and well-suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the U4Tx has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force of 62.5 grams indicates a heavier resistance compared to the Magnetic Jade's bottom out force of 55 grams. As a result, the U4Tx will likely provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who favor stronger tactile feedback. While the Gateron switch is more accessible for those who prefer lighter keystrokes, the U4Tx's medium bottom out force suggests a more robust feel for users who enjoy a firmer push. Overall, if users prioritize a lighter switch for comfort, the Magnetic Jade would be the preferable choice, whereas those seeking something more tactile and heavier may gravitate towards the U4Tx.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there is a slight difference that may appeal to different user preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Magnetic Jade the shorter option, which may be preferable for users who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. In contrast, the U4Tx's longer travel distance may offer a more pronounced bottom-out feel that some users find more satisfying for typing or general use. Therefore, if you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade would be the better choice, while the Gazzew U4Tx might be favored by those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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
When considering the sound profile, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright and clacky acoustics, making them an ideal choice for those who seek a more pronounced audio feedback during typing. This characteristic lends itself well to an energetic typing experience, often favored by users who enjoy a lively auditory environment. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switches present a more refined sound experience. They offer a deeper, bassy "thock" when bottoming out, coupled with a smoother, quieter sound when topping out, creating a balanced acoustic landscape. Users looking for a less intrusive typing sound while still enjoying a satisfying audio experience might favor the U4Tx.
Regarding the tactile feel of each switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade's tactile properties are not explicitly defined, so evaluation based on available information is limited. However, the Gazzew U4Tx is celebrated for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a crisply defined bump that enhances the typing experience. This intensity in tactile response can lead to a more engaged typing style, ensuring that users can feel each keypress distinctly. The Magnetic Jade may offer a different feel, potentially leaning into a different kind of tactile feedback, but specifics are not provided.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Gazzew U4Tx switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. While the Magnetic Jade thrives on bright, clacky sound, the U4Tx offers a deep, bassy yet muted auditory experience. The U4Tx shines in tactile feedback with its sharp response, while details on the Magnetic Jade's feel remain ambiguous. Those looking for excitement and retro flair may lean toward the Magnetic Jade, while users who prioritize acoustic sophistication and refined tactile experiences would tend to prefer the U4Tx. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences in sound and tactile response.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you’re looking for a vibrant and clacky sound while typing, the Magnetic Jade switches excel in providing that lively auditory feedback, making them an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more expressive typing experience. They also feature a medium-light actuation force, making them easier to press, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are necessary. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and muted sound profile with a solid tactile feedback, the U4Tx switches are your best bet. Their deeper “thock” sound when bottoming out and 62.5 grams actuation force provide a satisfying tactile experience that enhances the typing rhythm without being overly noisy, perfect for office environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a dynamic acoustic profile or a more subdued, yet tactile typing experience.
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