Gateron Mars vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves gravitating towards the unique characteristics of different options, such as the Gateron Mars and the Jwick Taro switches. The Gateron Mars, known for its innovative design incorporating a POK stem and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, delivers a smooth and linear typing experience that many gamers and typists appreciate for its consistent keypress feel without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches offer a tactile experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and sharp, crisp clacks, making them a favorite for those who enjoy feedback while typing. While the Mars is ideal for those seeking a seamless, uninterrupted keystroke, the Taro caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile response. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and Jwick Taro reveals intriguing distinctions in their design and acoustics. The Gateron Mars features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Conversely, the Jwick Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is both crisper and more resonant. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity of the sound profile, making it particularly effective in clear-bottomed designs, especially when coupled with RGB lighting. Thus, the two top housing materials bring distinctly different auditory experiences to the keyboard, catering to diverse preferences for sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Mars opts for POM, which produces a unique sound that is muted yet pleasingly deep. In contrast, the Jwick Taro features a nylon bottom housing, which emphasizes a fuller sound profile akin to its nylon top. Both switches leverage the softer properties of nylon to create a sound that is enveloping and rounded – a quality that complements the Mars's top housing. However, the unique character of the POM bottom housing in the Mars sets it apart, leading to a perceptibly different sonic experience when bottoming out the key, emphasizing the softer, absorbed sounds characteristic of POM.
The combined effects of the distinct top and bottom housing materials present a fascinating interplay in both switches. With the Gateron Mars, the configuration of a nylon top with a POM bottom creates an engaging blend of deeper sounds that resonate pleasantly, while the Jwick Taro's combination of polycarbonate on top and nylon below offers a more varied acoustic profile with enhanced clarity and brightness. Ultimately, even with different materials for the top and bottom housings, both switches can result in satisfying acoustic performance, yet they lead the typist to experience different, nuanced auditory feedback depending on how they engage with each material's unique qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we find that the Mars has a specific actuation force of 45 grams; however, its bottom out force is unavailable. In contrast, the Taro switch features a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. As a result, we cannot directly compare the two switches in terms of actuation force, leaving a gap in understanding how they feel during typing or gaming. However, based on the available information, we can determine that the Gateron Mars is likely the lighter option due to its actuation force, making it suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches like the Mars being ideal for comfort and longer use, and heavier options like the Taro catering to those who enjoy a firmer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, a clear distinction can be observed. The Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Taro offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference, though minimal, indicates that the Mars switch is the shorter option, which may appeal to users seeking a more responsive feel, particularly for gaming. On the other hand, the Taro’s longer travel distance could provide a more pronounced tactile experience, catering to those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on personal preference for responsiveness versus tactile depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Mars switches present a unique auditory experience that may be characterized as subtle and smooth, typical of linear switches, which tend to produce minimal noise compared to tactile or clicky options. The lack of an audible click may make them more suitable for environments where quiet operation is key. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switches offer a crisp and acute sound profile with their tactile feedback. They produce moderate, yet distinct clacks that enhance the typing experience, making them suitable for users who appreciate auditory feedback while using their keyboards, whether for gaming or typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switches provide a seamless and smooth keystroke sensation typical of linear switches, allowing for uninterrupted keypresses without tactile bumps. This smoothness makes for a fluid typing experience, where each keystroke feels effortless. Conversely, the Jwick Taro switches present a tactile profile that combines both buttery smoothness and a stepped feel, providing a noticeable tactile feedback without being overwhelming. This design allows for a satisfying typing experience that rewards both casual typists and those who prefer a more engaged feel, featuring a noticeable but not overly intrusive tactile bump.
Overall, the Gateron Mars linear switches and Jwick Taro tactile switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mars is ideal for those who prefer a smooth, quieter experience, while the Taro is suited for users seeking a tactile sensation accompanied by an audible response. Depending on your typing style and the environment in which you use your keyboard, you may find that either option serves you well; however, you will achieve vastly different tactile and auditory experiences with each.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between Gateron Mars linear switches and Jwick Taro tactile switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience and enjoy a quieter typing session, the Gateron Mars switches will be ideal for you, especially if you prefer the linear feel that lacks tactile feedback. Their innovative design promotes a responsive feel, making them a great choice for gaming or typing at moderate speeds, particularly in quieter environments where noise can be a concern. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a more engaging typing experience, the Jwick Taro switches stand out with their distinct snappy feel and crispy sound profile. Their medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams adds an element of satisfaction that can enhance your productivity, particularly for extensive typing tasks. In environments where you enjoy every keystroke feedback or might even want to impress with sound, the Taro switches create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Therefore, consider your personal preferences, the sound sensitivity of your surroundings, and how you plan to use your keyboard to select the switch that suits you best.
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