Gateron Aliaz vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Kailh Box Jade stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments, such as the office, with its silent design and medium-heavy weight that provides a satisfying typing feedback without noise. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile bumps, perfect for those who enjoy a more invigorating typing experience. While the Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Box Jade is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Accented', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy'. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and Kailh Box Jade switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them both ideal choices for users who enjoy a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, their clear housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also ensures a consistent sound profile when keys are pressed and released, leading to a satisfying typing experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing by contributing to the overall sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade switches have a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing materials adds variety to the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and Kailh Box Jade switches will come down to personal preferences in sound and feel. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the Aliaz and nylon for the Box Jade - adds a unique element to each switch. Users looking for a more resonant and clear sound may prefer the Aliaz, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Box Jade. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their combination of top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams, making it heavier than the Box Jade, which bottoms out at 60 grams. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Box Jade offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Aliaz being preferred by those who like a heavier feel and the Box Jade being favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade. The Aliaz's 4 mm distance offers a more traditional key press feel, while the Box Jade's 3.6 mm distance provides a slightly shallower press. While both switches offer a similar typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Aliaz may be preferred by users who appreciate a more tactile and deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted and softer sound profile, ideal for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound with a crunchy tactile feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more distinctive and satisfying typing experience with audible feedback. The choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile, whether it be the subtle and subdued tones of the Aliaz or the sharp and vibrant clicks of the Box Jade.
Moving on to feel, the Aliaz switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel with reduced friction for a refined and comfortable feel. In contrast, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, along with a firm actuation force for a snappy and reactive typing sensation. Both switches offer a medium-heavy weight, giving a substantial feel to each keystroke, but the Aliaz leans towards a smoother and more refined experience while the Box Jade prioritizes a more invigorating and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile and a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a more audible and distinctive typing experience with a high-pitched click and crunchy tactile feedback, creating a more invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience, but rest assured that both switches provide a medium-heavy weight and satisfying keystrokes, ensuring a rewarding typing experience regardless of the option chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you work in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a heavier, more substantial typing experience without the noise, the Aliaz switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the clicky sound profile and crisp tactile feedback of a medium-heavy switch, the Box Jade switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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