Kailh Box Jade vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White. Both switches fall into the clicky category, but they offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound and noticeable tactile feedback. Its high-pitched and invigorating nature, accompanied by a crunchy feel, makes typing on them a delight. On the other hand, the Box White is designed for individuals who crave maximum audio feedback. With a resonance reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves and a polished high-pitched crunch, this switch offers an accented tactility that adds to the typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better illumination. In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer a clear housing due to the use of polycarbonate.
Where the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Box Jade incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Box White utilizes the same material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding a sense of depth to typing on the switches. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience with regards to the impact and bottom-out sound, as the nylon bottom housing has more influence in this aspect.
However, it is important to note that while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel upon pressing the switch, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. As such, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White will contribute to the overall sound profile upon key release, creating a distinct auditory experience.
In summary, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Kailh Box White are similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp and crisp sound profile. The main difference lies in their nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound on both switches. Whether you choose the Jade or the White, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with each press, thanks to the distinct qualities offered by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that typing on both switches will provide a similar tactile experience in terms of force required for triggering a keystroke and pressing all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter feel, allowing for longer typing sessions, both switches will accommodate this preference. Similarly, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, both switches will provide a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, both switches are equal, making them suitable options for various typing needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience with both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76.
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 Kailh Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. The sharp and crisp clicks produced by these switches are reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch provides a resonant and high-pitched sound experience. Typing on these switches will give you a clean and sharp audio feedback, similar to the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches have the crunchy characteristic commonly associated with clicky switches, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience. This means that these switches provide a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The tactile bumps are noticeable and prominent, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White switch provides a polished feel. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel offered by the Box White switches contribute to comfortable and effortless typing.
Overall, while the Kailh Box Jade and Box White switches differ in some subjective qualities, they both share similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a high-pitched sound profile with a crunchy characteristic, providing a satisfying clicky sound experience. Furthermore, while the Box Jade provides an invigorating and accented tactile feel, the Box White offers a polished and smooth typing experience. Therefore, if you are seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with prominent tactility, crisp clicks, and crunchy sound, the Kailh Box Jade switches are the perfect choice for you. However, if you desire maximum audio feedback with a clean and sharp sound profile, along with a polished and smooth typing feel, the Kailh Box White switches will be the ideal option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them satisfying and invigorating. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a "stepping on autumn leaves" like crunch, the Kailh Box White switches are the ideal choice. These switches provide a clean and sharp sound profile, with a higher-pitched and resonant tone. Additionally, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, the Box White switches' polished finish ensures a sleek key travel. Overall, the decision between the Kailh Box Jade and Box White switches ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
Mentioned in this article
