Kailh Berry vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch. The Berry switches offer a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. They produce a fairly deep sound profile, characterized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Box Jades provide a medium-heavy typing experience, along with a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactile feedback. Users appreciate the crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps that these switches offer. The sound profile of the Box Jades is categorized as high-pitched, accented, invigorating, and crunchy. Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Kailh Box Jade have similar housing materials, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This polycarbonate material enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. It also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting, making it a preferred choice for those using such lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal when using either the Berry or the Box Jade.
However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Box Jade also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different typing experience when using the two switches, with the Berry offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Box Jade.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, such as the Kailh Berry and the Kailh Box Jade, the qualities of each housing material will have an impact on different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will contribute more to the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a distinct tactile and auditory experience depending on which aspect of the housing material is more prominent in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Berry switch has an undisclosed actuation force, while the Box Jade switch requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the Berry switch measuring at 70 grams and the Box Jade switch measuring at 60 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box Jade switch would be a suitable choice due to its lower actuation force. This could be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods of time, such as during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for users who desire a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push, the heavier actuation force of the Berry switch would provide a more satisfying tactile experience.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, they can still provide similar results depending on the desired typing experience. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches will require the same amount of force to actuate, resulting in a consistent typing or gaming experience. The travel distance of 3.6 mm is moderate, providing a satisfying level of key travel without being too shallow or too deep. Whether you choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, you can expect a comfortable and reliable typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50.
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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is known for providing a hefty and springy typing experience. When typing on these switches, users will notice a chalk-like texture. In terms of sound, the Berry switch has a deep and low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This is ideal for those who prefer a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility. Typing on the Box Jades will give users crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. The sound produced by these switches is described as high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This is great for individuals who enjoy the distinct sound of clicky switches.
To summarize, the Berry linear switch and the Box Jade clicky switch have different subjective qualities. The Berry switch provides a springy typing experience with a deep and low-pitched sound profile. It has a chalk-like texture when typing on it. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. It has a high-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer unique sensations for typing, allowing users to choose based on their preferences. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Berry but with a clicky sound profile, the Box Jade would be a good alternative.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy and textured feel, the Kailh Berry is the ideal choice for you. The Berry switch provides a satisfyingly deep and bassy sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a mellower tone. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility, the Kailh Box Jade is the way to go. The Box Jade switch offers crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, providing an invigorating typing sensation. Additionally, the Box Jade produces a sharp and high-pitched sound, ideal for those who prefer a more crisp sound profile. In the end, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound to make the decision that best suits you.
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