Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Violet 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 Jerrzi Violet each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade switches are celebrated for their bright and clacky sound, making them an excellent choice for users looking to elevate their acoustic experience while typing. Known for their hall effect technology, these switches provide a superior typing experience that many enthusiasts crave, particularly on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switches are gentle tactile switches that deliver a smooth actuation accompanied by a satisfying 'pop' at the tactile bump. Their neutral sound signature ensures a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, ideal for those who prefer quieter operation without sacrificing feedback. Both switches cater to different desires—whether it's an engaging sound experience or a notably tactile feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Violet utilize the same materials in their housings, which creates an interesting parity in their sound profiles and overall aesthetic appeal. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer composition. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting experience, allowing light to diffuse beautifully through the switch. Consequently, users can expect both the Magnetic Jade and the Violet to deliver a clear and resonant sound profile coupled with a visually striking lighting effect, especially when used in environments where RGB is an integral part of the setup.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches leverage nylon material, which is celebrated for its softer and more absorbent qualities compared to harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that characterizes the feel and auditory feedback when typing. As such, the incorporation of nylon in the bottom housing for both the Magnetic Jade and Jerrzi Violet plays a significant role in dampening sound, giving users a rounder acoustic profile. Given that the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a relatively similar tactile experience when pressing these switches, regardless of the brand.
Ultimately, the uniformity in materials used for both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Violet allows for comparable performance characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the impact each material has on the overall typing experience varies, the combined use of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that both switches will deliver the hallmark traits that users associate with these materials. The resulting synergy between the two housing types means that typists can achieve similar auditory and tactile feedback when using either switch, thereby allowing for personalized preference without sacrificing quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, distinct differences emerge, particularly in their actuation forces. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, whereas the Violet requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Magnetic Jade more suitable for users seeking extended typing comfort, as it demands less effort per keystroke, ideal for long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet, with its stronger actuation, offers a more substantial feel for those who prefer an assertive typing experience. Regarding bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a measurable bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating the force required to press the key all the way down. Meanwhile, the bottom out force for the Violet switch is unavailable, leaving that aspect unspecified. Overall, the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, making it better for prolonged use, while the Violet caters to users who appreciate a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Violet has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that, if you prioritize a quicker response for gaming or fast typing, the Magnetic Jade would be the better option as its shorter travel distance allows for faster key actuation. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and substantial press, the Jerrzi Violet's 3.7 mm travel could provide a deeper, more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a bright and clacky tone, making it a vibrant choice for typing. This acoustic quality is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, as it can enhance the overall typing experience, especially on a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch features a neutral sound, which provides a balanced auditory experience. This moderate sound profile allows for versatility, making the switch suitable for users in varying environments, whether in a quiet office or at home.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switch's description does not provide specific details, but it is generally recognized for delivering a superior typing experience that many users enjoy. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is a gentle tactile switch that features a distinct stepped feel. This means that users will notice a mild tactile bump during both the pre-travel and post-travel phases of actuation, providing a tactile sensation that is less intense compared to hypertactile options. The smooth actuation of the Violet switch further contributes to its enjoyable typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch offers a bright, clacky sound and is noted for an overall superior typing experience, while the Jerrzi Violet switch provides neutral acoustic feedback along with a gentle stepped tactile feel. Choosing between these options will largely depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile sensitivity; those who appreciate more pronounced auditory feedback might lean towards the Magnetic Jade, while those who prefer a balanced and gentle tactile experience could opt for the Violet. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, keeping in mind the influence of the choice of keyboard and keycaps on the final result.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you are looking for a light and responsive switch that produces a bright, clacky sound and enhances your keyboard's acoustics, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. It caters to those who prioritize a vibrant auditory experience while typing, making it suitable for more casual settings or if you’re showcasing your equipment to others. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with gentle tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet may be the better option. Its stepped tactile feel allows for a pleasant actuation while maintaining a balanced sound, making it suitable for both work environments and extended typing sessions without causing strain. In essence, your choice should hinge on whether you value auditory feedback or a quieter, subdued typing feel, guiding you toward the switch that best complements your typing style and environment.
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