Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics that each type offers. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, stands out for its bright and clacky sound, making it an ideal choice for upgrading your Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Users looking for enhanced acoustics and a superior typing experience frequently praise this switch for its engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM material, which provides a buttery-smooth keystroke coupled with a deep, satisfying "thock" sound. This makes the WS POM+ perfect for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience without the tactile bumps often found in other switch types. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Magnetic Jade appeals to those seeking lively acoustics, while the WS POM+ offers a more subdued yet satisfying typing 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
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, a clear distinction arises in their top housing composition. The Magnetic Jade utilizes polycarbonate, known for its ability to produce a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its rigidity. This characteristic allows the switch to resonate more clearly, making it particularly suitable for setups utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetics. In contrast, the WS POM+ is crafted from POM (polyoxymethylene), which yields a deeper and more muted sound signature. This softer sound profile, thanks in part to the material's unique properties, results in a more subdued auditory experience. Therefore, while both materials offer their own auditory appeal, they diverge significantly in the specific sound characteristics they produce.
Looking at the bottom housing aspect, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ feature nylon and POM materials, respectively. The nylon used in the Magnetic Jade contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb sound creates a rounder, more muted effect compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the WS POM+ incorporates POM for its bottom housing as well, which, while it aligns with a similar muted sound profile, may slightly differ in texture and feel during typing. Both switches incorporate low-resonance characteristics at the bottom, fostering a more comfortable and nuanced typing experience, but their inherent materials will create subtle differences in how they feel and sound under keystrokes.
Overall, while both switches exhibit distinct materials in their top housings, they exhibit similarities in their bottom housing choices, contributing to an overall cohesive typing experience. If one were to evaluate typing feedback and sound characteristics, the key differences would primarily surface when considering the top housings. The Magnetic Jade presents a brighter, crisper auditory feedback during release, while the WS POM+ leans towards a more muted and rounded signature. Despite these differences in the top housing, the combination of nylon and POM in the bottoms for both will provide a commonality in achieving a satisfying keystroke, underscoring the nuanced interaction between each housing material in determining the overall switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though they share the same bottom out force. The Magnetic Jade has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it a lighter option that is ideal for users who prefer less effort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial keypress feel for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that they will provide similar resistance when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will boil down to personal preference regarding the actuation force, with the Magnetic Jade being the lighter and more effortless option, while the WS POM+ offers a heavier, more pronounced feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slight increase with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the WS POM+ offers a marginally longer travel distance, making it the more traditional option when compared to the Magnetic Jade. For those who prefer quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade may be preferable, as it can provide a more immediate feedback when pressed. However, if you value a more substantial keypress feel, the WS POM+ could be the better choice due to its greater depth. Ultimately, while both switches provide a responsive experience, the Magnetic Jade will deliver a slightly snappier feel, whereas the WS POM+ will cater more to users who enjoy a deeper keystroke.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 recognized for its bright and clacky acoustics, making it a lively choice for those looking to enhance the auditory experience of their typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch produces a deeper, more resonant "thock" that many users find satisfying and rich. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them will depend on personal preference; those who enjoy a sharp, audible feedback may lean toward the Magnetic Jade, whereas those who favor a more muted yet profound auditory experience might gravitate to the WS POM+.
In terms of feel, the Magnetic Jade switch is designed to provide a superior tactile experience, often prioritizing responsiveness and a crisp actuation that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ focuses on delivering a buttery-smooth keystroke, ensuring an effortless and fluid typing experience. While both switches are engineered for a satisfying feel, they cater to different user preferences, with the Magnetic Jade focusing on a more tactile and punchy response and the WS POM+ emphasizing overall smoothness in key actuation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences. The choice between the bright, clacky sound of the Magnetic Jade and the deep, satisfying "thock" of the WS POM+ sets the stage for individual user preference. Similarly, while the Magnetic Jade offers a responsive tactile feel, the WS POM+ delivers an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on your desired sound and feel for the ideal typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback. If you’re looking for a switch that not only emphasizes a bright and clacky sound but also enhances the overall acoustics of your typing experience, the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice—especially if you’re using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch offers a lively feedback that can make typing feel more engaging and dynamic. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle, deep "thock" sound along with a smooth, buttery keystroke, the WS POM+ is likely to satisfy you. Its all-POM construction contributes to a refined feel, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quieter, more pleasant typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you favor a more clacky, vibrant feel with the Magnetic Jade or the deep, satisfying thock of the WS POM+.
Mentioned in this article
