Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Jade each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Magnetic Jade, known for its clacky sound profile, excels in providing a superior typing experience with enhanced acoustics, making it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. In contrast, the WS Jade features a metallic insert in its stem base, delivering a smooth and creamy typing feel alongside a bright, resonant sound. Additionally, its light diffuser creates an enchanting RGB display, appealing to gamers and aesthetic enthusiasts alike. While both switches are designed to elevate your typing experience, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, one could first look at the differences between their top housings. The Magnetic Jade incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic results from polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, making it a favorable choice for clearer and more resonant sounds. In contrast, the WS Jade employs a POM top housing. While the sound produced by POM is described as unique and pleasing, it leans towards a deeper and more muted profile. As such, users can expect different auditory experiences between the two switches, with the Magnetic Jade favoring a more vibrant sound through its polycarbonate housing.
Venturing into the bottom housings of these two switches reveals notable similarities between their material choices. The Gateron Magnetic Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more acoustics and provides a duller, rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade features POM as its bottom housing material, which also contributes to a deeper sound, albeit with a more muted quality. Although the materials differ, the overall impact of the bottom housing on sound characteristics will be felt similarly since both nylon and POM exhibit a tendency to create fuller sound profiles. Therefore, despite the difference in material, both switches will deliver a depth in sound that can resonate with users, fulfilling a desire for a rich auditory experience.
Ultimately, the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch will result from a combination of their top and bottom housings. In this comparison, the Gateron Magnetic Jade balances the clarity and resonance of its polycarbonate top with the depth of the nylon bottom, leading to a switch that excels in articulating crisp sounds while still offering a full-bodied experience upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the WS Jade presents a distinctive audio signature, merging the characteristics of its POM top and bottom to foster a pleasingly muted sound that is deeper in resonance. While the distinctive qualities of each switch emerge from the differences in material choices, users may still appreciate a satisfying experience in both cases as the unique attributes synergize to deliver enjoyable auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for lengthy work sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the WS Jade comes with a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who desire a more substantial tactile response from their switches. As such, if you're looking for a lighter switch that facilitates easier typing, the Gateron option would be preferable; however, if a firmer feel is your priority, the WS Jade would be the better choice. Overall, users seeking similar resistance in typing action will find that the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a smoother, lighter experience, while the WS Jade provides a heftier, more solid tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch differ slightly, with the Magnetic Jade measuring 3.5 mm and the WS Jade at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Magnetic Jade the shorter of the two, while the WS Jade is the longer switch. For users who prioritize responsiveness in their key presses, such as gamers who benefit from quicker actuation, the Magnetic Jade may be the better choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel during keypresses might prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the WS Jade, as it provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, while the travel difference is minimal, it reflects the distinct preferences between users seeking speed and those desiring depth in their keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 switch is renowned for its bright and clacky auditory profile, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a crisp and percussive sound during their typing sessions. The clackiness is often complemented by a marbly resonance, providing an engaging auditory experience that can make typing feel more lively and dynamic. On the other hand, the WS Jade switch boasts a distinct metallic insert that contributes to its bright, metallic, and resonant sound. This creates a sharp, clean, and immersive auditory experience characterized by high-pitched tones. Both switches aim to enhance the acoustic experience of typing, albeit with their unique flair; the Magnetic Jade offering more clack and resonance, while the WS Jade leans into a metallic sharpness.
Regarding feel, the Magnetic Jade switch does not have a specific description available, making it difficult to determine its tactile feedback or smoothness. In contrast, the WS Jade switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, described as silky and creamy. The silky quality minimizes resistance, allowing for a fluid movement of fingers across the keys, while the creamy aspect adds an extra layer of buttery smoothness to the keystrokes. The combination of these textures delivers a luxurious typing experience, fostering an effortless flow from key to key.
Overall, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the WS Jade linear switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences among typists. The Magnetic Jade excels in producing a lively and resonant sound, appealing to those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience, while the WS Jade switches provide a smooth and creamy typing feel. Depending on your priorities, whether that be a richer soundscape or a velvety keystroke, either switch can significantly elevate your typing experience. Choosing between the two often comes down to personal preference regarding sound versus feel, knowing that each offers its unique charm in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and usage scenarios. If you're looking for a switch that provides a bright, clacky sound profile, enhanced acoustics, and a medium-light bottom-out force, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent option, particularly for those who enjoy a more tactile and resonant typing experience. This switch is ideal for gamers or typists who prioritize auditory feedback and are using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. On the other hand, if your preference leans toward a smooth, creamy typing experience with a solid bottom-out feel, coupled with a bright metallic sound thanks to its unique design, then the WS Jade is the better choice. These switches shine in settings where a quiet, refined acoustic is desirable, such as an office environment or for long typing sessions, where comfort and minimal finger fatigue are key. By weighing these factors, you’ll be able to select the switch that best matches your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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