Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi 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 Morandi stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Magnetic Jade, renowned for its bright and clacky sound, is particularly popular among enthusiasts looking to elevate their typing experience, especially on Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. Its hall-effect mechanism not only enhances acoustics but also provides a distinct tactile feedback that can invigorate typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches offer a more subdued but innovative choice, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals and an UPE stem that delivers an airy smoothness. With its muted sound profile resulting from all-POM housings, the WS Morandi caters to users desiring a quieter, more serene typing experience while still prioritizing aesthetics. Ultimately, each switch presents its own set of advantages, reading to cater to diverse preferences in sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
3.50 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 Morandi, several distinct characteristics emerge. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness and translucency, which leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This can be particularly advantageous for those who utilize RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's clarity allows the colors to shine through vividly. In contrast, the WS Morandi is equipped with a POM top housing that leans towards a deeper, more muted sound profile. While both materials serve their purpose, the polycarbonate's sharper acoustics offer a more pronounced auditory experience, while POM is better suited for users who prefer a softer and less intrusive sound.
Examining the bottom housings of these switches reveals another layer of differentiation. The Magnetic Jade employs nylon, a classic choice known for its sound-absorbing properties that result in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer plastic helps to dampen noise, creating a more rounded audio experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi features a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a similarly deep and muted sound. While both the nylon and POM materials are effective in producing a pleasant auditory result, the nylon in the Magnetic Jade may create a more pronounced depth compared to the distinctive, yet softer POM sound of the WS Morandi.
In terms of overall sound and feel when typing, the differences in materials will manifest through their combined effects. The Magnetic Jade, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, will likely create a unique balance where the sharper sounds from the top housing intermix with the deep, resonant notes from the nylon bottom, resulting in a dynamic auditory experience. Conversely, the WS Morandi's POM housing combination is more consistently muted and deep, fostering a cohesive softness throughout the keystrokes. Thus, while both switches can produce pleasing sound profiles, the interplay of materials defines their respective auditory landscapes, catering to varied user preferences. If one is seeking similar results in terms of depth and sound, both switches can provide satisfying experiences, though with different aesthetics and auditory signatures at play.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, notable differences emerge. 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 more effortless typing experience, beneficial for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Morandi has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a firmer tactile experience that some users might find more satisfying. Therefore, those who favor a lighter touch without sacrificing functionality will likely gravitate towards the Magnetic Jade, while individuals seeking a substantial push feel for a more engaged typing experience might prefer the WS Morandi.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel, resulting in similar keystroke feedback and actuation. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you can expect comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness across both types of switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches produce a bright and clacky sound, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing experience. This lively acoustic profile enhances the tactile engagement with each keystroke, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate the resonance and character that a more vibrant sound offers. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches exhibit a different sound signature characterized as low-pitched and subdued. These switches deliver a more muted and thocky sound profile, creating a deep, rich thud when pressed, which can be more suitable for environments where a quieter keystroke is preferred. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Magnetic Jade’s clackiness and the Morandi’s subtlety cater to different preferences in sound.
In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade’s specific tactile feedback is not explicitly defined, but in contrast, the WS Morandi switches are distinguished by their buttery, creamy, and silky characteristics. This makes the Morandi an excellent choice for those who prioritize smoothness and seamless keystroke experience, effectively allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The creamy sensation of the Morandi switches can lead to a luxurious typing experience that is easy on the fingers, potentially contributing to less fatigue during long typing sessions. The Magnetic Jade may offer pleasant tactile qualities as well, but the precise sensations during use are less explicitly noted and may vary based on individual preferences and setups.
Overall, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches provide unique attributes catering to different user preferences in typing sound and feel. The Magnetic Jade excels with its bright and clacky auditory feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a more engaging sound experience. Conversely, the WS Morandi stands out with its muted, thocky sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it a great alternative for those seeking a refined typing touch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will reflect your personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback, with both offering enjoyable experiences catered to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch largely depends on your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prioritize an engaging auditory experience, the Magnetic Jade is the way to go; its bright, clacky sound offers a lively and dynamic typing environment, making it ideal for those who enjoy an expressive sound profile. This switch, with its medium-light bottom-out force, is also well-suited for rapid typing or gaming scenarios where quick key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more understated and refined typing experience, the WS Morandi will likely meet your needs better. Its subdued sound profile and buttery smooth feel create a serene atmosphere that is perfect for long typing sessions or creative work. Furthermore, the enhanced RGB visibility with the Morandi's design can add an aesthetic touch to your setup. In the end, consider whether sound dynamics or a smooth, visually appealing experience is more critical for your usage when making your final decision.