Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor present two distinct yet appealing options catering to different preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its bright, clacky sound that creates a distinctive auditory experience—perfect for those looking to elevate their typing with enhanced acoustics and performance. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor excels in delivering a thuddy and punchy sound profile, complemented by its pronounced tactility. This switch strikes a balance that allows users to experience satisfying feedback without overwhelming their senses, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more nuanced typing feel. While both switches cater to unique sensory preferences—one emphasizing a dynamic auditory experience and the other focusing on tactile satisfaction—they uniquely serve different typing styles and environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches share notable similarities, particularly with respect to their top housing components. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributable to polycarbonate's rigidity and durability, which allow it to resonate sound effectively. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enables outstanding light diffusion for those intending to use RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of both switches. Hence, users seeking similar acoustic and aesthetic outcomes will find both switches capable of delivering a clear and vibrant sound experience, especially in setups utilizing backlighting.
In contrast, the sliding action of the switches is influenced significantly by the materials used in their bottom housings. The Gateron Magnetic Jade and Haimu Viola Tricolor both incorporate nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon stands as a traditional choice for switch housing due to its ability to absorb sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This absorption creates a more rounded auditory experience, particularly noticeable during key presses, where the nylon's characteristics lend a gentle thud, contrasting sharply with the sharpness imparted by the polycarbonate top. Consequently, while both switches deliver stellar sound dynamics, the bottom housing material introduces a warm counterbalance to the crispness of the top housing.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials leads to an interesting interplay. Users pressing the keys will first encounter the more robust sound and tactile qualities provided by the nylon, while the release will offer the lively characteristics courtesy of the polycarbonate. Even though both switches employ identical materials in both their top and bottom housings, the distinct roles each plays in overall performance ensure that the user experience is rich and layered. Whether one favors the Magnetic Jade or the Viola Tricolor, they can expect a well-rounded tactile engagement combined with vibrant auditory feedback, enhancing the performance of their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Gateron Magnetic Jade features an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which makes it suitable for users who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor has no specified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This heavier bottom out makes the Viola more suitable for those who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing feel. Consequently, users can expect the Gateron Magnetic Jade to be lighter and easier to actuate, while the Haimu Viola provides a firmer feedback and resistance when fully pressed down. Thus, while one emphasizes a softer touch for prolonged use, the other caters to the tactile preferences of those who enjoy a heavier key feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Magnetic Jade is the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking faster response times due to its decreased travel distance. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial key press that some users prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it’s evident that these switches cater to different auditory preferences. The Magnetic Jade is known for a bright and clacky sound, which is often desired for its crispness and overall engaging auditory experience. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who value clear, resonant feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor presents a thuddier and punchier sound profile, characterized by its bassy and low-pitched qualities. This deeper tone offers a richer acoustical experience that can create a more immersive typing environment. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the bright, lively sound of the Magnetic Jade or the deeper, more resonant profile of the Viola Tricolor, keeping in mind that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade is characterized by qualities that enhance the typing experience, providing a smooth and responsive action; however, specific details about its tactile characteristics are not provided. The Viola Tricolor, on the other hand, is noted for being an accented switch that combines prominence with comfort, striking the right balance between tactile feedback and a non-intrusive typing experience. Users can expect an invigorating sensation with the Viola Tricolor, as it provides medium tactility along with a moderate to firm actuation force, allowing for a lively and responsive feel. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation that is both refreshing and forgiving, the Viola Tricolor may be particularly appealing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches provide unique typing experiences characterized by their sound and feel. The Magnetic Jade excels in delivering a bright, clacky sound and a smooth typing feel, while the Viola Tricolor offers a punchy, bassy sound with a more pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference for auditory and tactile qualities, either switch can significantly enhance your keyboard experience, ensuring that you achieve a satisfying typing sensation tailored to your style.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter actuation force combined with a crisp, clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice, particularly for those who appreciate a bright acoustic profile and a smooth typing experience that excels in versatility. This switch is suitable for gamers and typists alike who enjoy fast-paced and responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and relish a rich, throaty sound, the Viola Tricolor would be your go-to option. Its medium-heavy tactile feedback and invigorating actuation create a satisfying typing experience that balances pronounced tactility with comfort, making it ideal for longer typing sessions where feedback is essential. In the end, it’s all about what sounds and feels right to you, whether it's the lively response of the Magnetic Jade or the punchy tactility of the Viola Tricolor.
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