Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves exploring various switch options, and two notable contenders in the realm of Hall Effect switches are the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Dash. The Magnetic Jade switches are celebrated for their bright and clacky sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant auditory feedback while typing, especially suited for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches offer a captivating re-color of the Magnetic Jade, adding a touch of elegance to your setup while still delivering a similarly bright sound signature, paired with a uniquely silky smooth keystroke that elevates the typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Magnetic Jade prioritizes a superior acoustic experience, while the WS Dash combines aesthetics with a refined tactile feel. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash both incorporate polycarbonate for their top housings, which imparts a distinctive auditory quality to the switches. This choice of material is significant, as polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucent nature of polycarbonate, making them particularly compatible with RGB lighting setups. The uniform use of this material in the top chambers of both switches ensures users can expect a similar clarity in sound when engaged, allowing for a harmonious experience when utilized in a mechanical keyboard environment.
In contrast to their similar top housings, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which introduces a different acoustic dimension to their performance. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This characteristic is essential as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. As such, while both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Wuque Studio WS Dash present a crisp sound when a key is released due to their polycarbonate tops, the deeper, rounder tone elicited from their nylon bottoms creates a dynamic balance between the sharper highs and the warmer lows.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the WS Dash leads to a cohesive auditory experience that capitalizes on the strengths of each material. The clear, resonant sound from the top is complemented by the deeper tones from the bottom, producing a well-rounded aural experience that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. Users who prefer a combination of crispness and warmth in their typing feedback will find that both switches deliver remarkably similar results, effectively merging the bright clarity of polycarbonate with the rich fullness of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation and bottom out forces, with an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying them both as medium-light switches. This similarity in force characteristics means that users will experience comparable typing experiences in terms of resistance and feedback, making either switch a suitable choice for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. While personal preferences for switch weight may vary, those who favor a lighter touch for comfort over long durations will find both the Magnetic Jade and the WS Dash to meet their needs effectively. Conversely, enthusiasts seeking a heavier feel for added tactile feedback may want to explore options with greater force ratings, as neither switch offers that more substantial push.
Travel distance
The Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equivalent in this regard. This similarity in travel distance means that users will likely experience comparable activation depths when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. As a result, both switches offer similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, contributing to a consistent typing experience. Since their travel distances are the same, enthusiasts can choose either option without concern for differences in how far the switches travel when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches are renowned for their bright and clacky auditory profile, making them a popular choice for those seeking an engaging typing experience. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches also exhibit a bright and clacky sound signature, ensuring that users enjoy a lively acoustic atmosphere. Both switches share this vibrant sound characteristic, which can enhance the overall typing experience, although the actual sound may vary depending on the keyboard build and the keycap materials used in conjunction with them.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switches are highlighted for providing a superior tactile experience that many users find satisfying. Meanwhile, the WS Dash switches also offer a silky smooth keystroke, adding a touch of refinement to their feel. While the Magnetic Jade focuses on delivering a standout tactile feedback, the WS Dash's silky smoothness complements that experience well, making them both enjoyable to type on, with a nuanced difference in their overall feel that may appeal to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches deliver a vibrant sound profile that typists adore, offering a bright and clacky auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade switches provide a strong tactile sensation, while the WS Dash switches elevate this with their silky smooth keystroke. Ultimately, both switch options cater to typists looking for an exciting and rewarding keyboard experience, with each switch presenting its own slight variations in feel that may resonate differently with individual users.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing experience and aesthetics. If you’re looking for a switch that delivers a bright and clacky sound, along with a solid tactile experience that enhances the overall feel of your keyboard, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice. It excels in providing a superior typing experience, making it perfect for users who prioritize acoustics and feel in their setup. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit of refinement and want a switch that combines a similar bright and clacky sound with an especially silky smooth keystroke, then the WS Dash will likely appeal to you. This switch not only boasts a sleek aesthetic but also offers a unique feel that could enhance your typing enjoyment even further. Ultimately, both switches share a similar bottom-out force, making them ideal for users who prefer medium-light switches, but your decision should reflect your preference for sound signature and tactile feel.
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