Gateron Hall Effect Switches: The Complete Guide
If you're in the market for hall effect switches, Gateron offers several compelling options. Let's dive deep into each variant to help you find the perfect switch for your needs.
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WS Dash / Magnetic Jade
The WS Dash, which are manufactured by Gateron, stands out as an excellent choice for users seeking a clean, clacky sound profile. With a 55g bottom-out force and buttery smooth operation right out of the box, these switches effectively eliminate the rattly sound commonly found in stock Wooting Lekker switches. The sealed bottom housing delivers a clean, satisfying clack when bottoming out. While essentially identical to the Magnetic Jade, the WS Dash features a purple stem and comes in at a slightly lower price point of 75 cents per switch, compared to the Jade's 80 cents.
Magnetic Jade Pro
For those who value a unique sound signature, the Magnetic Jade Pro offers the most marble-like sound in the hall effect market. These switches create a focused, concentrated sound profile that sets them apart from the scattered acoustics typical of default Lekkers. They also excel in RGB performance, producing noticeably brighter illumination than most other hall effect options.
The Pro variant differs from standard Jades in several ways: it features a heavier 36g actuation force (compared to 30g), more generous factory lubing for enhanced smoothness, and an even more pronounced marble-like sound. While slightly pricier at 80 cents per switch, the premium is justified for users who prioritize smoothness and are comfortable with a heavier feel.
Magnetic Jade Gaming
The Magnetic Jade Gaming variant distinguishes itself through its box stem design, which significantly enhances stability and reduces wobble. Maintaining the standard 3.5mm travel distance, these switches produce a bright sound signature similar to the WS Dash. They're particularly well-suited for gaming scenarios where stability is paramount.
Magnetic Jade Max
The Magnetic Jade Max represents Gateron's response to users seeking a deeper, more muted sound profile. While not the deepest switches available overall, they stand out within Gateron's hall effect lineup for their relatively thocky and muted acoustics. The transparent housing provides exceptional light diffusion, making them an excellent choice for RGB setups. These switches also offer a notably tighter and smoother feel compared to their siblings.
Genty
For those seeking a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Genty offers an intriguing middle ground. While not completely silent, these switches qualify as "semi-silent" and feature a unique design with a hole in the bottom housing that helps diffuse sound rather than concentrating it. The bottom-out feels satisfying, and while the top-out muted pads provide some sound dampening, they won't deliver complete silence. Their lower price point makes them an attractive option compared to the Jade Max.
Making Your Choice
When selecting your ideal Gateron hall effect switch, consider your priorities carefully. Sound preference plays a crucial role: the WS Dash delivers clean, clacky acoustics, while the Magnetic Jade Pro offers a unique marble-like sound. If RGB lighting matters to you, both the Jade Pro and Max variants provide superior light diffusion. For gaming-focused setups, the Gaming variant's enhanced stability might be worth considering. Budget-conscious users will appreciate the WS Dash's value proposition, while those working in noise-sensitive environments might find the Genty's semi-silent operation appealing.
Remember that personal preference ultimately determines the perfect switch for you. While the WS Dash represents an excellent value with its clean acoustics, the Magnetic Jade Pro's premium features might justify its higher price for users who prioritize smoothness and RGB performance. For quieter environments, the Genty strikes a nice balance between performance and noise reduction without commanding top-tier pricing.