Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer distinctly different typing experiences that cater to varied preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, a Hall Effect switch, is celebrated for its bright, clacky sound and is an ideal choice for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards with superior acoustics and an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch, provides a luxurious feel with its deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a subtle, sharp tactile bump that ensures a refined and quiet usage. While the Magnetic Jade appeals to those who prioritize auditory feedback and responsiveness, the U4Tx RGB is perfect for users who value a gentle tactile sensation and a more muted sound profile. 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
65g
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
Standard
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 RGB, notable distinctions arise in their top housing compositions. The Magnetic Jade employs a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary blend of plastic often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique material is softer than polycarbonate, resulting in a richer and deeper sound profile. Therefore, while the Magnetic Jade's top housing is designed for brighter sound characteristics, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's top housing leans toward a warmer auditory experience, catering to different preferences in keyboard acoustics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Magnetic Jade and U4Tx RGB utilize materials that reinforce a full and deep sound signature. The Magnetic Jade features nylon for its bottom housing, a traditional choice in the mechanical keyboard world recognized for absorbing sound and providing a duller, rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB also uses the same proprietary "boba plastic" for its bottom housing, leading to a similarly rich and deep sound profile. As a result, while the top housings diverge in their design philosophies—one favoring sharpness and the other warmth—the bottom housings converge on creating a fuller sound experience, suggesting that users can achieve a comparable auditory richness with both switches due to similar materials in the area that influences bottom-out sound.
In conclusion, the differences between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches depend significantly on their top housing materials, which influence the sound when releasing the keys. Although the Magnetic Jade’s polycarbonate top lends itself to a brighter sound and sharper feedback, the U4Tx RGB's boba plastic top is designed for depth and warmth. However, their shared use of nylon and boba plastic in the bottom housings ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying fullness and weight to the typing experience. This duality in material choice means that, while users may notice variations in sound characteristics during key release, the fundamental typing sensation and bottom-out sound remain comparably rich and satisfying across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch with the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of weight and feel. The Magnetic Jade features a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for those who favor a more effortless keystroke, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch has an unknown actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This means that the U4Tx provides a more substantial tactile experience, appealing to typists who prefer a firmer push. Consequently, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the heavier switch. For those looking for a lighter and more forgiving feel, the Magnetic Jade is the clear choice, whereas fans of a robust typing experience will lean toward the U4Tx.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the U4Tx RGB offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the U4Tx RGB switch provides a marginally deeper feel when pressed, which may be more appealing for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade makes it potentially better suited for gamers seeking faster response times. For those who prioritize quicker typing or gaming performance, the Magnetic Jade would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, the U4Tx RGB would likely feel more satisfying due to its longer travel distance.
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 RGB 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches produce a bright and clacky audio profile that can significantly enhance the overall typing experience. This lively sound adds a layer of satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a unique auditory experience characterized by a pronounced "thock" upon bottoming out, interspersed with the quieter sound of the key returning to its top position. This refined sound profile strikes a balance between a well-defined acoustic feedback and a more subdued topping-out noise, catering to users who prefer a smoother sound environment while typing.
In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade switches provide a satisfying typing experience, often noted for their smooth actuation and responsiveness. They are especially favored by those looking for a high-performance switch that emphasizes a tactile and engaging interaction. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB switches boast a sharp tactile bump that enhances the user experience, delivering a sense of luxury and precision during typing. Their tactile feedback allows for a more deliberate and intentional keystroke, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate noticeable feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, making them suitable for distinct typing experiences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade excels in its bright and clacky sound, combined with a smooth typing feel, making it ideal for users seeking a vibrant auditory experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a deeper, thockier sound profile while providing a luxurious, tactile feedback that many find pleasurable. Ultimately, your choice between these two options will depend on whether you prioritize an engaging sound experience or a refined, tactile typing feel, as you could achieve satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter touch and appreciate engaging acoustics, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent option: its 55-gram bottom out force provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, complemented by a bright and clacky sound that many users find enjoyable, particularly when upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch is ideal if you're looking to enhance your overall typing experience without too much resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel under your fingers, the U4Tx RGB is the way to go. With a medium-heavy 65-gram bottom out force, it delivers a pronounced tactile bump and a deeper "thock" sound profile, allowing for a refined typing experience that still maintains a level of quietness. This makes the U4Tx RGB perfect for those who appreciate a balance of tactile feedback and noise control, especially in quieter environments. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the sound profile you desire when making your choice between these two distinct switches.
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